Spielberg is known for muscling in on book and scripts. It is likely he read the script in the 70s and commissioned his own writer to make an Americanzed treatment of it.

What I liked about Persepolis (the graphic novel especially) was the perspective the story was told. Satrapi used the view of a child to show how war affected her life and self concept. For me thats why things were simplified. The movie provided more historic backing at the beginning but by doing the whole story as a flashback, everything seems so simple and there is a lack of reflection from an adult perspective. I felt like it was very much about her and her experience the entire time. I appreciated her sharing her experience navigating her identity in France and Iran and how she felt like she never really fit in anywhere but did at the same time.

Also I found there to be many positive as well as bland male characters in the book, (and i hardly think she feels like most men are evil or gay). In fact her two heroes are her grandmother and her uncle who she profoundly respects and admires.

The animation style I agree is kinda problematic and ick ick. But even with legitimate concerns, it is the story of growing up, maturing , and experiencing oneself. I appreciate her voice.