Unmissable Book-to-Screen Adaptations Lighting Up 2026

As we embark on a new year, the realms of television and film are abuzz with anticipation. Kicking off in January, a myriad of fresh titles will grace various streaming platforms, from BBC’s The Traitors to Netflix’s The Rip. For bibliophiles and cinephiles alike, 2026 is poised to be an exhilarating year, brimming with exceptional book-to-screen adaptations.

Hamnet (January 9)

Among the most eagerly awaited literary adaptations is Hamnet, inspired by Maggie O’Farrell’s 2020 novel. This poignant film delves into the lives of William Shakespeare and his wife, Agnes, as they grapple with the loss of their only son, Hamnet. The narrative draws from the life of the English bard, who penned his renowned tragedy Hamlet a few years after his son’s demise in 1596.

People We Meet on Vacation (January 9)

Based on Emily Henry’s bestselling 2021 romance novel, this film adaptation features Tom Blyth and Emily Bader as Alex and Poppy, two best friends who embark on an annual summer vacation together. As their friendship blossoms into something deeper, they are compelled to confront their true feelings for each other. The novel debuted at No. 1 on The New York Times bestseller list and has sold over 2 million copies in the US.

Wuthering Heights (February 14)

“I cannot live without my life! I cannot live without my soul!” These iconic words from Emily Brontë’s 1847 Gothic classic will resonate with viewers as the film hits screens this Valentine’s Day. Directed by Emerald Fennell and featuring music from Charli XCX, the highly anticipated movie stars Jacob Elordi as Heathcliff and Margot Robbie as Catherine Earnshaw.

Reminders of Him (March 13)

From the author of It Ends With Us, Colleen Hoover brings us another heart-wrenching story. Reminders of Him follows Kenna, a mother determined to reunite with her daughter and rebuild her life after being released from prison. The story is filled with romance and drama as Kenna navigates her complex relationship with her late partner’s best friend, Ledger, played by Tyriq Withers.

Project Hail Mary (March 20)

Based on Andy Weir’s 2021 novel, Project Hail Mary stars Ryan Gosling as Ryland Grace, a teacher who wakes up on a spaceship with no memory of how he got there. As his memory gradually returns, he realizes he must embark on a mission to save the world from the dying sun.

Margo’s Got Money Troubles (April 15)

Adapted from Rufi Thorpe’s 2024 bestselling novel, this upcoming miniseries follows the story of an aspiring writer who turns to OnlyFans to make ends meet as a single mother. The series boasts a stellar cast including Elle Fanning, Nicole Kidman, Michelle Pfeiffer, Nick Offerman, Thaddea Graham, and Michael Workéyè.

The Odyssey (July 17)

Adapted from Homer’s ancient Greek epic, The Odyssey follows the hero Odysseus on his long and winding journey home after the Trojan War. Directed by Christopher Nolan, the film features an all-star cast including Matt Damon, Anne Hathaway, Zendaya, Lupita Nyong’O, Charlize Theron, Mia Goth, Tom Holland, Benny Safdie, Jon Bernthal, and John Leguizamo.

Verity (October 2)

Colleen Hoover’s Verity is another highly anticipated adaptation. Starring Anne Hathaway, Dakota Johnson, and Josh Hartnett, the film follows struggling writer Lowen Ashleigh, who is hired to ghostwrite for bestselling author Verity Crawford. As Lowen uncovers a web of secrets, she finds herself entangled in a complex and dangerous situation.

Sunrise on the Reaping (November 20)

A prequel in the hit Hunger Games franchise, Sunrise on the Reaping adapts Suzanne Collins’s 2025 novel. The film follows Haymitch Abernathy as he enters the arena in the second Quarter Quell. The cast includes Joseph Zada, Mckenna Grace, Elle Fanning, Maya Hawke, Ralph Fiennes, and Jesse Plemons, with cameo appearances from Jennifer Lawrence and Josh Hutcherson.

Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew (November 26)

Director Greta Gerwig brings another C.S. Lewis classic to the screen with The Magician’s Nephew, the prequel to The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe. The film explores the origins of Narnia and its creation by the lion Aslan, with a cast that includes Emma Mackey, Carey Mulligan, Meryl Streep, and Daniel Craig.

For more information on these adaptations, visit Hello Magazine.