Book-to-screen adaptations seem to be all the craze in recent years solidifying cultural moments, sparking conversations and defining trends. These fresh adaptations have been seen all over Internet feeds. Here are some of the most talked about adaptations from book to screens, and why they are gaining attention.
The long-anticipated second part to the “Wicked” franchise, “Wicked: For Good” prepares to come out in theaters late in November. While the original musical has always enchanted theater fans for decades, the first part, “Wicked” came out one year ago. The film starred A-listers Ariana Grande as Glinda and Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba, the misunderstood Wicked Witch of the West. Expect powerful performances that dive into themes of identity and friendship. “Wicked” originally was published as a book in 1995 by Gregory Maguire.
On the small screen, “The Summer I Turned Pretty” has created pop culture waves. Based on Jenny Han’s bestselling trilogy, it follows Isabel “Belly” Conklin as she navigates her final summer before adulthood, caught in a complicated love triangle with brothers Conrad and Jeremiah. Starring Lola Tung, the show balances emotional depth and lighthearted romance. After the final episode, which was recently released, “The Summer I Turned Pretty: The Movie” was teased.
For fans of fun mysteries, “The Thursday Murder Club” offers a new twist from a beloved series by Richard Osman. Focusing on four retirees who meet weekly to solve cold cases, the cast is full of fan favorites such as Helen Mirren and Pierce Brosnan. The movie combines humor and suspense as the group finds themself in a real whodunit.
There seems to be a push towards classical literature being revamped with last year’s “Nosferatu” directed by Robert Eggers becoming a fan favorite, adapted from Bram Stoker’s “Dracula”. Bill Skarsgård slips seamlessly into the role of Count Orlok and Lily-Rose Depp stars as Ellen Hutter. Now classic literature lovers can prepare for a “Wuthering Heights” adaptation, featuring Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi as lovers Catherine Earnshaw and Heathcliff. This retelling of Emily Brontë’s classic novel’s trailer has been released, with the movie set to enter theaters on Feb. 13, 2026.
Elordi fans can also look forward to his performance in the upcoming “Frankenstein” adaptation, book originally by Mary Shelley, starring alongside Oscar Isaac and Mia Goth. “Frankenstein” comes to theaters on Oct. 17, and with director Guillermo del Toro, it is certain to be a fresh and haunting take on a timeless tale.
Another thriller slated to be on screen soon is “Verity,” an adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s bestselling novel. This psychological thriller will star Anne Hathaway and Dakota Johnson. “Verity” is set to come out on Oct. 2, 2026.
On a lighter note, “How to Train Your Dragon,” originally adapted from the series to a blockbuster animation film, recently released a live-action version with Mason Thames and Nico Parker. The story followed Hiccup and his unlikely bond with a dragon.
All these adaptations show a bigger trend of the recreation of favored books that highlight narratives that connect us to humanity. Whether focusing on classic literature, human emotions or fantastical performances these films and series remind us that storytelling is the heart of pop culture.
Lindsay Collier is a writer. Contact her @[email protected].
