Book-to-film adaptations are the gifts that keep on giving. Not only do you get to have the experience of reading a new novel, but you also get to see immersive worlds come to life on screen in a (hopefully) well-made film adaptation. And while the months of 2018 are dwindling, there are still plenty of films based on books that are set to be released (or already here) before the end of the year. Whether you love thrillers, rom-coms or biographies, there is something out there for everyone. Here are 13 of the buzziest page-to-screen adaptions to add to your list for the remainder of 2018.
The Darkest Minds (in theaters now)
Based off the series by Alexandra Bracken, The Darkest Minds is the story of Ruby, a young girl with strange abilities who is sent to a government rehabilitation camp. When she is 16, things take a turn and get even stranger, forcing Ruby to go on the run and team up with others like her to find a safe haven. Starring Amandla Stenberg and Mandy Moore, The Darkest Minds film is full of action, twists and turns and a hint of romance, and sure to be the next YA blockbuster franchise.
Crazy Rich Asians (in theaters now)
We have been waiting YEARS for Kevin Kwan’s novel to hit the big screen, and happy news—the day is finally here! Crazy Rich Asians is the story of Rachel Chu, a New Yorker who receives an invitation from her boyfriend, Nick, to visit his family in Singapore. This sounds normal enough, but Rachel soon learns that Nick’s family is incredibly wealthy, that he is one of the most eligible bachelors in Asia and that his mother is not happy about his relationship with Rachel. Already praised for its representation of Asian culture and star-studded Asian cast, Crazy Rich Asians is guaranteed to become a classic for all.
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society (on Netflix now)
The latest Netflix drama is this adaption of the classic 2008 novel. Guernsey is about Juliet, a young writer in post WWII London, played by Lily James (Mamma Mia: Here We Go Again, Downton Abbey). Juliet begins exchanging letters with women who live on the island of Guernsey and survived German occupation during the war. After reading their letters, Juliet sets off on an adventure to meet these incredible women. Full of heart, this film is a winner.
To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before (on Netflix August 17)
If you’re looking for another rom-com, this adaptation of Jenny Han’s novel is your perfect match. Lara Jean Covey has written private letters to all of her previous crushes. When these letters are accidently sent to her crushes, she must deal with the repercussions as her past loves confront her. Starring Lana Condor and Pretty Little Liars star Janel Parrish, To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before is sure to be Netflix’s next hit rom-com. And, if you like what to see, make sure to check out the novel’s two sequels.
The Wife (in theaters August 17)
If drama and awards season contenders are your cup of tea, don’t miss The Wife. Based on Meg Wolitzer’s novel of the same name, not much can be said about the film and novel for fear of ruining the story. But basically, The Wife is about a woman who heads to Stockholm to be with her husband, as he receives the Nobel Prize. Accompanied by a dogged reporter, the couple’s secrets are revealed, making for a shocking conclusion full of drama. With a standout performance by Glenn Close, keep an eye on this one come awards season.
The Little Stranger (in theaters August 31)
It’s never too early for some Halloween scares, and The Little Stranger promises to deliver lots of them. Domhnall Gleeson stars as Doctor Faraday, a doctor who is summoned to Hundreds Hall to minister to a patient. Not only does he find his patient, he also finds romance and an intriguing mystery with connections to his own past. This adaptation of Sarah Waters’ historical drama is filled with tons of supernatural elements sure to leave you sleeping with the lights on.
A Simple Favor (in theaters September 14)
Anna Kendrick, Blake Lively and a twisty mystery—sounds like the perfect recipe for box office success. Darcey Bell’s debut domestic thriller is about Stephanie (Anna Kendrick), a mommy blogger who befriends the fabulous Emily (Blake Lively). One day, Emily asks Stephanie for a simple favor—watch her son after school. It seems harmless, until Emily disappears. Reminiscent of Gone Girl, and co-starring Henry Golding (Crazy Rich Asians), this is a must-see film this fall.
Little Women (in theaters September 28)
Greta Gerwig’s highly-anticipated Little Women isn’t set to hit theaters until Christmas 2019, but you can still get your fix of the March family in this modern version of the classic novel. Everything you love about the March sisters (Jo’s determination, Meg’s practicality, Beth’s heart) is still there, just reimagined for 2018. And if that wasn’t cool enough, two High School Musical alums have roles in the film!
Beautiful Boy (in theaters October 12)
If you thought Timothée Chalamet was robbed at the Oscars last year, don’t worry, as he his coming for that Oscar this year in this emotional tour de force. Beautiful Boy is based off of two memoirs—Beautiful Boy by David Sheff and Tweak by Nic Sheff—and tells the story of how David Sheff worked to help his son Nic overcome his addiction to methamphetamines and other substances. These books are both intense reads, but offer insight into how addiction affects both addicts and their families. Co-starring Steve Carell and Amy Ryan, this film is sure to be a tearjerker, so bring your tissues.
First Man (in theaters October 12)
Damien Chazelle and Ryan Gosling reunite post-La la Land in this adaptation of James R. Hansen’s biography of Neil Armstrong, the first man to walk on the moon. And while space movies (and biographies) can sometimes be a bit dry, this version is compelling as it delves into Armstrong’s professional and personal life, particularly his relationship with his wife, Janet (played by The Crown’s Claire Foy). Another award-winning contender, make some time to check this one out.
The Hate U Give (in theaters October 19)
The Hate U Give is easily one of the most anticipated book-to-film adaptations of the year. In this timely novel by Angie Thomas, Starr Carter (Amandla Stenberg) is a high school student who witnesses her childhood best friend be shot by a police officer. When the investigation into his death is stalled and the case gains national attention, Starr must decide whether to speak up or stay silent. The novel has already sparked discussion about important social issues, and the film is sure to continue the conversation. Riverdale’s KJ Apa and comedian Issa Rae also star.
Boy Erased (in theaters November 2)
You may not know who Lucas Hedges is, but you will be hearing a lot about him this awards season and one reason why is his role in Boy Erased. The film, based on Garrard Conley’s memoir, is about Jared (Hedges), the son of a pastor who is outed to his parents. As a result, he is sent to conversion therapy, where he is in conflict with his therapist and bonds with the other teens. Another powerful story based on true events, Nicole Kidman and Russell Crowe round out the cast as Jared’s parents.
The Girl in The Spider’s Web (in theaters November 9)
In a new imagining of Stieg Larsson’s vigilante hacker, Lisbeth Salander (Claire Foy) is now the girl with the dragon tattoo. This film, based off of David Lagercrantz’s novel of the same name, finds Lisbeth and her journalist partner Mikael Blomkvist investigating new international conspiracies, while also uncovering secrets about Lisbeth’s past. This one is sure to be gritty, action-packed and not to be missed.
