New and Upcoming Book Adaptations in 2024
This year brings an exciting array of book adaptations to both big and small screens. A new era of literary adaptations is in full swing, inviting audiences into richly imagined stories. SSP prepared.
The Idea of You
The anticipated adaptation of "The Idea of You" leads this year's lineup. Available for streaming on Prime Video, this film features Anne Hathaway as a 40-year-old single mom. She meets 24-year-old Hayes Campbell, portrayed by Nicholas Galitzine, during Coachella. Despite their age difference and distinct lifestyles, the two explore a deeper bond that extends beyond a mere fling. Directed by Michael Showalter, the film draws inspiration from Robinne Lee’s 2017 novel. Original music performed by Galitzine brings a nostalgic feeling reminiscent of early 2000s boy bands.
It Ends With Us
Set for release on August 9, "It Ends With Us" is based on Colleen Hoover’s bestseller. The film stars Blake Lively as Lily Bloom, who connects with neurosurgeon Ryle Kincaid, played by Justin Baldoni. Their chance meeting leads to an intense connection, yet Lily recognizes troubling traits that remind her of her parents’ toxic relationship. Lively and Baldoni’s characters face complications when her first love, Atlas Corrigan, portrayed by Brandon Sklenar, reenters her life. Amid rising fan expectations, Hoover addressed casting concerns surrounding age differences in the novel versus the film. She acknowledged the shift in age for the characters to fit the narrative better, stating her creative choices resulted in concerns.
Mickey 17
Set to release on January 31, 2025, "Mickey 17" is an adaptation of the book by Edward Ashton, directed by Oscar-winner Bong Joon Ho. This film narrates the story of Mickey 7, a space colonist classified as expendable, who frequently faces life-threatening scenarios. After dying, he is revived through human printing technology. At CinemaCon, Bong described the film's journey as one featuring "a simple man who ultimately ends up saving the world." Robert Pattinson stars as Mickey Barnes, playing both Mickey 17 and a newly minted Mickey 18 – one a worn-out worker, the other his unruly doppelgänger.
Harold and the Purple Crayon
Audiences will soon enjoy "Harold and the Purple Crayon," which hit theaters on August 2. Starring Zachary Levi, this animated/live-action adaptation breathes life into Crockett Johnson’s beloved character. The adult Harold can draw his surroundings and distort reality with his imagination. Upon realizing the fun and peril of this power, he embarks on a mission to safeguard both worlds. Directed by Carlos Saldanha and produced by John Davis, the cast includes notable names such as Lil Rel Howery and Zooey Deschanel, with the screenplay crafted by David Guion and Michael Handelman.
Wicked
Coming on November 27, "Wicked," directed by Jon M. Chu, adapts Gregory Maguire’s novel into a highly anticipated cinematic experience. This film revisits the enchanting world of Oz, previously introduced in the renowned stage musical originating in 2003. Ariana Grande stars as Glinda, sharing the screen with Cynthia Erivo’s Elphaba. Chu confirmed the leading ladies perform live vocals, enhancing the film's authenticity. Joining the talented cast are Michelle Yeoh, Jonathan Bailey, and several others, making this adaptation one to look forward to.
Read also: New on Paramount Plus in August 2024.
