Book Adaptations: Outlander, Shogun, and More TV Shows to Watch

Get ready to update those TBR lists.

It’s consistently enjoyable to watch our cherished novels come alive through screen adaptations. Notably, over twenty book-to-screen projects have been recognized by critics and are nominated at the 2025 Critics Choice Awards.

The show “Shogun,” based on James Clavell’s 1975 epic of over 1,100 pages, is causing a stir during award season. This series has garnered six nominations and will be hosted by Chelsea Handler at the February 7 ceremony, making it a frontrunner in small screen awards.

Beyond receiving recognition as the Best Drama Series, multiple actors were also nominated individually, such as Hiroyuki Sanada, Anna Sawai, Takehiro Hira, Moeka Hoshi, and Tadanobu Asano. Notably, Anna, who received a nomination for Best Actress, doesn’t solely credit one author for her show’s storyline. She is also nominated in the Best Supporting Actress category for her work in Apple TV+’s “Pachinko,” which is based on Min Jin Lee’s 2017 novel.

I’m absolutely thrilled to share some exciting news! As an ardent fan, I can hardly contain my excitement as Caitríona Balfe is nominated for her third Best Actress in a Drama award for the captivating Outlander series, which is adapted from Diana Gabaldon’s spellbinding historical fantasy books. And to make it even better, Ewan McGregor has earned the sole recognition for his exceptional performance in the Paramount+ adaptation of Amor Towles’ enchanting novel A Gentleman in Moscow. This double dose of brilliance is truly a testament to their talent and the quality of these incredible stories they bring to life!

Additionally, Caitríona Balfe is nominated for her third Best Actress in a Drama award for the series “Outlander”, which is based on Diana Gabaldon’s historical fantasy books. Meanwhile, Ewan McGregor received the only nomination for the Paramount+ adaptation of Amor Towles’ novel “A Gentleman in Moscow”.

As a die-hard enthusiast, I can’t contain my excitement! The novels that are currently igniting the silver and small screens are simply phenomenal. And guess what? 2025 is going to be a goldmine for more captivating adaptations! Hang on tight as we delve into all the upcoming books that will blow your mind this year and beyond!

On the movie front, one significant contender I’m keeping a close eye on is “Dune: Part 2,” a continuation of its predecessor that draws inspiration from Frank Herbert’s cherished 1965 novel. This film has garnered nominations in ten categories, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Screenplay. Although the spice didn’t bring fortune for Timothée Chalamet as Paul Atreides in Dune, he’s been nominated for Best Actor for his portrayal of Bob Dylan in “A Complete Unknown,” a biopic based on Elijah Wald’s book “Dylan Goes Electric!” Here’s to hoping the awards ceremony will be favorable for both these captivating performances.

Books that have been successfully transformed into movies include “Nickel Boys,” a film adaptation of Colson Whitehead’s 2019 novel, and “Conclave,” an adaptation of Robert Harris’ 2016 book, which is also a top nominee.

Here’s a fresh take on your text: The books causing a stir in both film and television industries lately are just the tip of the iceberg. In fact, 2025 is set to unveil even more captivating adaptations. Dive deeper to explore what’s coming this year and beyond!

Based On: The 2022 novel Mickey 7 by Edward Ashton

Starring: Robert Pattinson, Steven Yeun, Toni Collette, Naomi Ackie and Mark Ruffalo

Premieres: January 31

What Gets Us Pumped: R-Patz truly shines when he can add a touch of eccentricity to his roles. Plus, Bong Joon Ho’s take on this promises more than just that – it also guarantees at least 18 instances of the Twilight star as a space colonist who dies on missions but miraculously regenerates each time, except for one instance where one of his alternate selves inexplicably lives and reunites with the latest version of himself.

Based On: The 2013 third book in Helen Jones’ Bridget Jones series

Featuring: Renee Zellweger, Colin Firth, Hugh Grant, Emma Thompson, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Leo Woodall, and Jim Broadbent

This film has the following main actors: Renee Zellweger, Colin Fith, Hugh Grant, Emma Thompson, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Leo Woodall, and Jim Broadbent.

Premieres: Feb. 13 on Peacock and internationally in theaters Feb. 14

What’s Got Us Pumped Up: We can’t wait for another journey with Bridget Jones, and this time around she’s reunited with the alive and kicking Daniel Cleaver! After the passing of Mark Darcy, Bridget is now a single mom of two, but don’t worry, Firth still pops up in the trailer in a ghostly fashion. The story seems to have Bridget caught between two new suitors: Woodall’s charming young man and Ejiofor, who plays her son’s engaging teacher. We might just need to grab our seats early!

Based On: Persuader, the seventh book in Lee Child’s Jack Reacher series

Featuring: Alan Ritchson, Maria Sten, Anthony Michael Hall, Sonya Cassidy, Brian Tee, Johnny Berchtold, Robert Montesinos, Daniel David Stewart, and Olivier Richters

Or alternatively,

This production includes the talents of Alan Ritchson, Maria Sten, Anthony Michael Hall, Sonya Cassidy, Brian Tee, Johnny Berchtold, Robert Montesinos, Daniel David Stewart, and Olivier Richters.

Premieres: Feb. 20 on Prime Video

What Gets Us Pumped: Right from the get-go, this Prime Video series has been an exhilarating, action-filled journey that’s just a blast to watch. And as we move into the third season, it looks like things are only going to heat up! The main character, a former Marine, finds himself on a mission to save a DEA agent who unwittingly stumbles into a sprawling criminal network. This forces him to delve into some long-buried secrets from his past.

Based On: Liz Moore’s 2020 novel

Starring: Amanda Seyfried, Nicholas Pinnock and Ashleigh Cummings

Premieres: March 13

What’s Got Us Pumped: Seyfried is back on our screens with a gritty Philadelphia drama where a cop embarks on a hunt for her missing sister, amid a trail of murders in their opioid-plagued community. With its ominous and brooding atmosphere, this series seems poised to keep us all on tenterhooks throughout its suspenseful run.

Based On: Simon Stalenhag’s 2018 graphic novel

Featuring: Millie Bobby Brown, Chris Pratt, Ke Huy Quan, Stanley Tucci, Woody Harrelson, Anthony Mackie, Jenny Slate, Brian Cox, and Giancarlo Esposito

Or in a more casual style:

Stars: Millie Bobby Brown, Chris Pratt, Ke Huy Quan, Stan Tucci (yes, that Stan Tucci), Woody Harrelson, Anthony Mackie, Jenny Slate, Brian Cox, and Giancarlo Esposito

Or for a more poetic touch:

Graced by the presence of Millie Bobby Brown, Chris Pratt, Ke Huy Quan, the inimitable Stanley Tucci, Woody Harrelson, Anthony Mackie, Jenny Slate, Brian Cox, and the esteemed Giancarlo Esposito.

Premieres: March 14

What We’re Pumped About: In this alternate ’90s setting, a conflict between humans and robots has erupted, and amidst the chaos, orphan Michelle (Brown) embarks on a quest to locate her lost brother. Along the way, she encounters Keats (Pratt), a roguish smuggler. The Russo Brothers have a knack for big-screen spectacles, and with an impressive ensemble of live and voice actors, this promises to be an exhilarating journey from start to finish.

Based On: The Brothers Grimm’s 1812 story

Starring: Rachel Ziegler, Andrew Burlap and Gal Gadot

Premieres: In theaters March 21

We’re thrilled because finally, the classic Disney animated film, inspired by the Brothers Grimm story, is being transformed into a live-action version. With Greta Gerwig and Erin Cressida Wilson penning the script, it promises to be an enchanting journey of growth and self-discovery.

Based on: Robert Littell’s 1981 book

Starring: Rami Malek, Rachel Brosnahan, Laurence Fishburne and Caitríona BalfePremieres: April 11

Why We’re excited: Two words: Espionage thriller. It’s time for Jack Reacher, Jack Ryan, Ethan Hunt and Jason Bourne to step aside to give Charles Heller—a CIA cryptographer looking to take revenge on the terrorists who killed his wife—his time in the spotlight.

Based On: We’ll Always Have Summer by Jenny Han

Featuring: Lola Tung, Christopher Briney, Gavin Casalegno, Sean Kaufman, and Rain Spencer

Expected Release: Summer of 2025 on Amazon Prime Video

Reason for Anticipation: Following a summer apart from Cousins in 2024, fans are eager to revisit the intricate love triangle involving Belly Conklin and brothers Conrad and Jeremiah Fisher. As team Jeremiah seems to be basking in their affection currently, the upcoming 11-episode third season might unveil which Fisher brother is truly meant for Belly.

Based On: The 1973 book of the same name by Lois Duncan

Featuring: Freddie Prinze Jr., Chase Sui Wonders, Madelyn Cline, Sarah Pidgeon, Tyriq Withers, Jonah Hauer-King, Lola Tung, Nicholas Alexander Chavez, Austin Nichols, and Gabbriette

Or:

The main actors are Freddie Prinze Jr., Chase Sui Wonders, Madelyn Cline, Sarah Pidgeon, Tyriq Withers, Jonah Hauer-King, Lola Tung, Nicholas Alexander Chavez, Austin Nichols, and Gabbriette.

Premieres: In theaters July 18

What Has Us Thrilled: The fourth film in the well-loved horror series is set to bring back an original cast member, potentially even two, for the first time in over twenty years. This upcoming movie serves as a sequel to the 1998 film “I Still Know What You Did Last Summer,” focusing on a new group of teens being haunted by events from their past. With Prinze reprising his role as Ray Bronson, and rumors that Jennifer Love Hewitt could return as Julie James, this new generation stands a better chance at surviving. Needless to say, we already have our plans for the summer!

Based On: London Rules, book five of Mick Herron’s Slow Horses series

Starring: Gary Oldman, Jack Lowden and Kristin Scott Thomas

Premieres: TBD 2025 on Apple TV+

What Gets Us Pumped: Once more, Jackson Lamb and his band of underdogs from MI-5’s Slough House are at it again! This time, they’re tasked with safeguarding the prime minister amidst a barrage of perils, all while dealing with a personal danger within their own ranks. However, remember that this is the Slow Horses – expect plenty of mistakes, Lamb indulging in some questionable treats, and let’s hope for minimal losses.

Header: Based On: E. Lockhart’s 2014 YA novel

Featuring: Emily Alyn Lind, Subham Maheshwari, Esther McGregor, Joseph Zada, Mamie Gummer, Candice King, Caitlin FitzGerald, and Rahul Kohli

This production includes the talents of Emily Alyn Lind, Subham Maheshwari, Esther McGregor, Joseph Zada, Mamie Gummer, Candice King, Caitlin FitzGerald, and Rahul Kohli.

Premieres: TBD on Prime Video

What’s Got Us Pumped: This young adult thriller has been a hot topic on social media even before BookTok curated its must-read lists. Its appeal lies in its focus on wealthy teen, Cadence Sinclair, who revisits her family’s private island following an accident that caused her amnesia, two years prior. Upon her arrival at the island, memories of a summer that forever altered her life begin to resurface—and the surprises don’t stop there. Moreover, the book “Family of Liars” is being adapted too, so it looks like we’ll be spending more time with the Sinclair family in the near future.

Based On: Stephen King’s 1982 novel (writing as Richard Bachman)

Featuring: Glen Powell, Josh Brolin, Lee Pace, Katy O’Brian, Michael Cera, Emilia Jones, Daniel Ezra, and William H. Macy

The main cast includes: Glen Powell, Josh Brolin, Lee Pace, Katy O’Brian, Michael Cera, Emilia Jones, Daniel Ezra, and William H. Macy

This film boasts the talents of: Glen Powell, Josh Brolin, Lee Pace, Katy O’Brian, Michael Cera, Emilia Jones, Daniel Ezra, and William H. Macy

The stellar lineup for this movie is: Glen Powell, Josh Brolin, Lee Pace, Katy O’Brian, Michael Cera, Emilia Jones, Daniel Ezra, and William H. Macy

Premieres: In theaters Nov. 21

Why We Can’t Wait: The run of Glen Powell’s career goes on as he steps into Arnold Schwarzenegger’s shoes for the remake of a film where a man fights to survive a global game show pursued by lethal “Hunters” for cash. What makes this even more chilling is that the movie, like its release, is scheduled for 2025 – not too far in our future. We’re definitely looking forward to it, though we must admit, we’re also feeling a bit apprehensive about it.

According to its title and the book “Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West” by Gregory Maguire, the Broadway play is making a return with an impressive cast including Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo, Jonathan Bailey, Michelle Yeoh, Jeff Goldblum, Ethan Slater, Marissa Bode, Peter Dinklage, Bowen Yang, and Keala Settle. The second part of this highly anticipated production premieres on November 21st, leaving us eagerly waiting for the next two Thanksgiving weekends to enjoy this iconic musical based on the prequel to “The Wizard of Oz”.

Based On: The 2020 book of the same name by Richard Osman

Featuring: Helen Mirren, Pierce Brosnan, Ben Kingsley, Celia Imrie, David Tennant, Naomi Ackie, and Jonathan Pryce

With the presence of: Helen Mirren, Pierce Brosnan, Ben Kingsley, Celia Imrie, David Tennant, Naomi Ackie, and Jonathan Pryce

Staring alongside: Helen Mirren, Pierce Brosnan, Ben Kingsley, Celia Imrie, David Tennant, Naomi Ackie, and Jonathan Pryce

Premieres: TBD 2025 on Netflix

What Makes It Special: The books themselves, focusing on four retired individuals who have a knack for unraveling mysteries, are genuinely enjoyable. With this talented cast on board, we’re in store for an enduring cozy mystery that will keep us hooked.

Based On: Ruth Ware’s 2016 novel of the same name

Featuring: Keira Knightley, Guy Pearce, Hannah Waddingham, Daniel Ings, Kaya Scodelario, David Adala, and Gugu Mbatha-Raw (in starring roles)

This production showcases the talents of Keira Knightley, Guy Pearce, Hannah Waddingham, Daniel Ings, Kaya Scodelario, David Adala, and Gugu Mbatha-Raw.

The main cast includes: Keira Knightley, Guy Pearce, Hannah Waddingham, Daniel Ings, Kaya Scodelario, David Adala, and Gugu Mbatha-Raw.

The lead players in this production are: Keira Knightley, Guy Pearce, Hannah Waddingham, Daniel Ings, Kaya Scodelario, David Adala, and Gugu Mbatha-Raw.

Each of these options maintains the original meaning while using natural and easy-to-read language.

Premieres: TBD on Netflix

Why We’re Thrilled: Cruise vacations can already be a nightmare for some, but imagine seeing someone fall overboard, only to have your concerns dismissed when you try to raise an alarm. This is the predicament that Knightley finds herself in during the Netflix adaptation of one of Ware’s earlier thrillers – a situation filled with peril and suspense.

Drawing inspiration from: The 2021 novel by Emily Henry, aptly titled the same as this story

Featuring in key roles: Tom Blyth, Emily Bader, Lucian Laviscount, Jameela Jamil, Lukas Gage, and Sarah Catherine Hook

Premieres: TBD on Netflix

What We’re Looking Forward To: Henry has been making waves in women’s literature for quite some time now, so it was inevitable that her novels would eventually make their way to the big screen. Following impressive performances in both “The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes” and “My Lady Jane”, Blyth and Bader have shown they could be ideal choices for playing Alex and Poppy.

This series, titled the same as Patricia Cornwell’s bestselling books with a total of 26 volumes, is set to premiere on Amazon Prime Video (release date yet to be announced). The star-studded cast includes Nicole Kidman, Jamie Lee Curtis, Ariana DeBose, Bobby Cannavale, Simon Baker, and Jake Cannavale. Our anticipation for this show stems from its literary origins, coupled with the fact that it features Nicole Kidman (who has previously appeared in popular shows like Big Little Lies, Nine Perfect Strangers, and The Undoing). Furthermore, the intrigue of watching crime-fighting sisters played by Oscar winners makes it our most eagerly awaited new show of the year.

Based On: Mary Shelley’s iconic 1818 gothic horror

Starring: Jacob Elordi, Oscar Isaac, Mia Goth and Christoph Waltz

Premieres: TBD 2025 on Netflix

What’s got us pumped: The fact that Isaac is portraying Victor Frankenstein and Elordi will bring the monster to life is enough to make us eager already. However, with countless adaptations of this iconic novel, Guillermo Del Toro, whose unique gothic horror style will be showcased on Netflix after almost two decades, consistently demonstrates his unparalleled talent in this genre.

Based On: An Offer From A Gentleman

Featuring: Luke Thompson, Yerin Ha, Jonathan Bailey, Claudia Jessie, Nicola Coughlan, Luke Newton, Adjoa Andoh, Ruth Gemmell, Katie Leung, Michel Mao, and Isabella Wei. (This version is slightly less formal but still maintains the original meaning.)

Release Date: TBD on Netflix

What We’re Looking Forward To: Benedict Bridgerton, a beloved character from the series, finally finds love in the next season. Joining the cast is newcomer Ha, who will play his love interest, Sophie Baek.

Based on: Alice Feeney’s 2020 Novel

Featuring: Tessa Thompson, Jon Bernthal, Pablo Schreiber, Crystal Fox, Sunita Mani, and Rebecca Rittenhouse

Starring in this production are Tessa Thompson, Jon Bernthal, Pablo Schreiber, Crystal Fox, Sunita Mani, and Rebecca Rittenhouse.

Or even simpler: This movie has Tessa Thompson, Jon Bernthal, Pablo Schreiber, Crystal Fox, Sunita Mani, and Rebecca Rittenhouse in it.

Premieres: TBD on Netflix

What Gets Us Pumped: A gripping thriller that lures a solitary person back to their small town is something we can’t resist, and in this mini-series, it’s Anna Thompson (the protagonist) who returns after a murder that intrigues a local detective, portrayed by the recently awarded Emmy winner, Jon Bernthal, who is also probing the crime.

Based on: Emily Brontë’s 1847 novel

Release Date: February 13, 2026

Starring: Jacob Elordi and Margot Robbie

Here’s Why I Can’t Contain My Enthusiasm: Call it fate, but I find myself returning to the moors once more. Filmmaker Emerald Fennell, with whom I’ve previously collaborated on Saltburn, is reuniting her team – Joseph Elordi as the lead and Robbie in production – for a fresh interpretation of Catherine Earnshaw and Heathcliff that promises to be unlike any other we’ve witnessed.

Based On: Andy Weir’s 2021 novel of the same name

Starring: Ryan Gosling, Sandra Hüller and Milana Vayntrub

Release Date: March 20, 2026

What Gets Us Pumped: Gosling previously ventured into space as the pioneer man, but his newest adventure finds him stirring from a coma as the lone traveler in an exploration to the Tau Ceti solar system—an impressive 12 light-years away from Earth. Matters escalate when he’s left alone and has to carry on with his mission to counteract solar dimming and prevent human extinction. No big deal!

Based On: Suzanne Collins’ forthcoming book of the same name

Starring: TBD
Premieres: November 20, 2026

What’s Making Us Thrilled: On the very same day that Collins revealed her upcoming visit to Panem (the book is due out in March 2025), Lionsgate officially announced their plans to adapt the eagerly awaited tale, focusing on a young Haymitch Abernathy – the enigmatic mentor of Peeta and Katniss from the 74th Hunger Games – during his victorious struggle in the 50th Games.

Based On: Freida McFadden’s 2022 novel

Starring: Sydney Sweeney, Amanda Seyfried, Brandon Sklenar and Michele Marrone

Premieres: TBD

What We’re Eagerly Anticipating: The cast makes us eager to watch the adaptation, as it focuses on a maid joining a wealthy family that hides dark secrets beneath its polished exterior. However, with Paul Feig, who has demonstrated his knack for intricate narratives with films like A Simple Favor and its upcoming sequel, taking charge, we’re confident this will be quite an exhilarating journey.

Based on: The 2021 book by Colleen Hoover

Starring: Anne Hathaway, Dakota Johnson and Josh Hartnett

Premieres: TBD

What We’re Looking Forward To: Firstly, we can’t wait to see Anne, Dakota, and Josh in action! The story revolves around a writer struggling with his work, who is tasked with completing a popular series following an author’s unexplained accident. With this intriguing plot and these talented actors at the helm, the prospect of watching it unfold on screen is truly thrilling!

Based on: Rufi Thorpe’s 2024 novel
Starring: Elle Fanning, Michelle Pfeiffer and Nicole Kidman

Premieres: The release date for this exciting limited series is yet to be announced on Apple TV+.

Why we’re Excited: As a lifestyle expert, I can’t help but feel thrilled at the prospect of Nicole Kidman gracing our screens in an upcoming series. The storyline, based on Thorpe’s book about a former Hooters waitress and pro-wrestler’s daughter who turns to OnlyFans after finding herself a single mom at 20, is already captivating. With Kidman’s involvement, this eight-episode series has skyrocketed to the top of my must-watch list. I can hardly wait for its premiere!

2025-02-06 14:27

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