Page turners: the most anticipated book-to-film adaptations of 2026.
2026 is shaping up to be a blockbuster year for literary fans. From beloved classics to genre-defining novels and epic sci-fi adventures, filmmakers are bringing some of the most compelling books in the world to cinema-goers.
Here is a rundown of the book adaptations generating the most buzz this year.
Wuthering Heights
Releasing February 12
Emily Brontë’s gothic romance returns with a darker, spicier edge, reimagined by Emerald Fennell (Saltburn). Leaning into obsession and desire, this adaptation pairs brooding atmosphere with charged chemistry and beautifully unhinged intensity. Wuthering Heights is set to seduce P18–39 females, particularly those drawn to provocative romances, elevated aesthetics and character-driven stories that feel as intoxicating as they are unforgettable.
Reminders of Him
Releasing March 12
Colleen Hoover’s bestselling novel makes its way to the big screen with a story centred on grief, redemption and second chances. With themes of young love and personal growth, Reminders of Him is set to strongly resonate with P14–39 females, particularly Colleen Hoover superfans and BookTok audiences who connect with emotionally driven storytelling that fuels online conversation and cultural momentum.
Project Hail Mary
Releasing March 19
Project Hail Mary follows a lone astronaut on a mission to save humanity, built around science-led problem solving and large-scale spectacle. Written by Andy Weir, the author behind The Martian, the adaptation will be a major drawcard for P18–39 males, particularly fans of Weir’s signature survival storytelling, along with gamers and sci-fi lovers drawn to intelligent, immersive big-screen experiences.
The Magic Faraway Tree
Releasing March 26
Enid Blyton’s beloved fantasy makes the jump from page to screen with The Magic Faraway Tree, bringing its sense of imagination and adventure to a new generation. From the writers of Paddington 2, the film follows a modern family who discover an enchanted tree that opens the door to ever-changing magical lands. Led by Andrew Garfield and Claire Foy, the adaptation is perfectly positioned for family audiences seeking a shared cinema experience rooted in wonder and warmth.
The Odyssey
Releasing July 16
One of literature’s oldest and grandest tales, Homer’s The Odyssey receives a big-screen reimagining from acclaimed director Christopher Nolan. Starring Matt Damon as Odysseus alongside a powerhouse ensemble including Zendaya, Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway and Robert Pattinson. Shot in IMAX and driven by Nolan’s signature scale and ambition, The Odyssey promises to be one of the cinematic events of the year, strongly capturing P18–39 male audiences drawn to epic storytelling and prestige filmmaking.
Verity
Releasing October 1
Another Colleen Hoover bestseller hitting screens in 2026 is Verity, set to hook P18-39 female audiences. Starring Anne Hathaway, Dakota Johnson and Josh Hartnett, the film adapts one of the most talked-about thrillers on BookTok, drawing audiences into a chilling story of secrets, lies and deception. First released in 2022, Verity marked a sharp departure from the heart-led romance novels Hoover is known for, while proving her strength in the thriller genre.
The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping
Releasing November 19
Suzanne Collins’ Sunrise on the Reaping expands the dystopian Hunger Games universe with a prequel set 24 years before the original films, centring on a young Haymitch Abernathy at his first Reaping. The film is set to strongly engage P18–39 audiences and longtime fans of the series, offering a deeper look at Panem’s political machinery and the origins of one of its most enduring characters.
Dune: Part Three
Releasing December 17
Dune: Part Three continues Paul Atreides’ interstellar journey with an adaptation of the second novel in Frank Herbert’s series, Dune: Messiah. The film marks the third and reportedly final instalment in Denis Villeneuve’s Dune saga, expanding the story’s themes of power, prophecy and political control. Set to captivate P25–54 male audiences, the film stands as one of the most anticipated franchise events of 2026.
