4 Book to Screen Adaptations That We're Excited About
The summer blockbusters have come and gone, but with fall traditionally comes quite a few page-to-screen adaptations of our favorite books and series. But, if your life is anything like ours, then it’s probably pretty hectic. As much as we would love to see the latest movies to hit the big screen, we simply don’t have the time required to see every book-to-screen adaptation that rolls through our local movie theatre. Our solution? See one movie a month. The four films listed below are set to be released now through the end of the year, so we feel confident that we can squeeze them in.
We love all things bookish, but when it comes to films we can be a little more critical. When a book adaptation is made well, it can be invigorating and fun. There’s nothing better than seeing your favorite characters come to life on the big screen. But when an adaptation is made poorly, it can sour the love you have for one of your favorite works. We’ve done our research, and we think that the adaptations below will be some of the best movies based on books to come out in the remainder of 2017. Also, if you like any of the novels listed below check out the “If You Like This, Read These” sections to see what books you should read next!
1. Annihilation
Annihilation is set to be released in September of 2017 with an all-star cast and crew. The script for this book to screen adaptation was co-written by Alex Garland and the original author of the novel, Jeff VanderMeer. The film will be lead by Jennifer Jason Leigh, Natalie Portman, Tessa Thompson, Oscar Isaac, and Gina Rodriguez. Annihilation is the first of the three part Southern Reach series; one would assume that if this film proves to be successful, we can expect to see the complete trilogy come to screen within the coming years.
Synopsis: The novel follows the expedition of four women who are sent into the mysterious “Area X” by the even more mysterious Southern Reach organization. “Area X” is an area in the United States that has been secretly quarantined due to abnormal activity. The group of women followed in the story are the twelfth expedition to be sent into the unknown “Area X.”
If You Like This, Read These: One Second After, The Road, Z for Zachariah
2. The Mountain Between Us
The Mountain Between Us, which is slated to be released in October of 2017 is a stand alone novel by Charles Martin. This harrowing story is set to be lead by Kate Winslet and Idris Elba. Less romance novel and more wilderness survival manual, we believe that this story will be unlike most of the other, larger, films coming out this year. With the majority of the story taking place between two characters, we’re excited to see some breath taking cinematography and some thoughtful dialogue.
Synopsis: While two strangers simultaneously await a delayed flight, one to attend her wedding nuptials and the other to return home to perform surgery after a medical conference, their paths cross as the delayed flight becomes canceled due to a snow storm. After securing a charter flight to get him around the storm, a doctor offers to give the remaining seat in his small chartered plane to an anxious bride-to-be. What starts as a quick detour turns into a fight for survival as both passengers become stranded in the High Uintas Wilderness.
If You Like This, Read These: Lost: A Wild Tale of Survival, Nowhere Wild, The Martian
3. Wonder
Wonder, by R.J. Palacio, will be gracing our screens in November of 2017. This film adaptation will be starring Julia Roberts, Owen Wilson, and Jacob Tremblay. From a cinematic standpoint, we’re excited to see Jacob Tremblay in another leading role; you will recognize this young actor from his work as Jack in Room. From a literary standpoint, this is one of those books that is able to impart a lot of life lessons without feeling heavy or forced. Perfect for reading with a child, or sharing with a friend, this story is one that will make a positive change in your life after seeing it.
Synopsis: The story follows Auggie, a child born with a severe facial deformity, as he interacts with the world around himself. Told from multiple points of view, this story shows both the flaws and the good that exist in the world as young Auggie navigates childhood with the help of his family, friends, and community.
If You Like This, Read These: The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian, Stargirl, So B. It
4. Murder on the Orient Express
If you read The Westing Game in high school, then this is the adult mystery that you need to upgrade to immediately. This highly anticipated film is set to debut in late November of 2017 with an incredible cast comprised of Johnny Depp, Daisy Ridley, Willem Dafoe, Michelle Pfeiffer, Penélope Cruz, Josh Gad, Judi Dench, and so many more! If you’re tired of only seeing your favorite big name actors in action films, then you’re in luck. Murder on the Orient Express is a cunning story written by Agatha Christie that is often hailed as one of the best murder mysteries ever written.
We will concede that this technically isn’t a new book-to-screen concept as an adaptation was made in 1974, but considering that that was over 40 years ago, we’re willing to stretch our suspension of disbelief and call this a “new” book-to-screen adaptation.
Synopsis: It seems like an average day aboard the lavish Orient Express until the unthinkable happens, someone is murdered! DUN DUN DUNNNN.
If You Like This, Read These: The Westing Game, The Mystery of the Blue Train, Wolf at the Door
For The Love of Books
Whether you’re a fan of books, movies, or both, watching a page-to-screen adaptation can be a rewarding experience. See new worlds and stories like never before all in the comfort of a plush armchair at your local movie theatre. What literary film adaptations are you most excited about, or what has been your favorite film adaptation to date? Tell us down below! We love making candles inspired by books, whether they get the big-screen treatment or not.
