We Were Liars Author E. Lockhart, Cast Tease Book-to-Screen Changes

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We Were Liars author E. Lockhart is sharing the truth about her new show. 

In fact, since the novelist is a producer on the upcoming Prime Video series featuring Emily Alyn Lind, Shubham Maheshwari, Esther McGregor, and Joseph Zada, she played a significant role in transforming the popular BookTok sensation into a TV show. This responsibility involved steering creators Julie Plec and Carina Adly Mackenzie towards the crucial moments that she believed would resonate most with the fans.

Lockhart clarified to Francesca Amiker of TopMob News during an exclusive interview that he emphasized the most crucial points for his readers. For instance, the scene where Cadence and Gat write on each other’s hands carries significant importance because many of his readers attend events with similar markings, just like characters in the novel.

Although these specifics don’t directly drive the storyline – as it revolves around 17-year-old Cadence revisiting her family island during summertime, many years after a puzzling incident – they play a significant role in establishing the setting and atmosphere of the narrative.

She added, “Other instances evoked strong emotions from my readers.” The character Gat dons a green hunting jacket, which plays a significant role throughout the story. To maintain continuity, it was essential for him to wear that same jacket on the screen adaptation.

As the author behind “The Family of Liars,” who penned the series finale, disclosed: a significant aspect remains consistent with the original novel.

“The twist is the same,” Lockhart confirmed. “I can’t wait for fans to see this.”

To clarify, the adaptation makes certain changes that can be considered as creative adjustments. The most significant change is enhancing the roles of sisters Carrie, Penny, and Bess, who are minor characters in the original book. They are the mothers of three of the main characters known as the Liars.

Lockhart playfully hinted, referring to unique narratives for each character that stemmed from his work with the series, “Family of Liars.” He joked about the abundance of sibling rivalry and melodramatic moments in the script.

In a teaser about upcoming events not based on “We Were Liars,” Candice King, who portrays Bess, shared insights. “Bess is driven by the conviction that if she can carefully arrange her life externally, she will discover inner peace and happiness,” remarked the actress from “The Vampire Diaries.” “As the story unfolds, we witness Bess’s gradual unraveling and growing doubts about how she has been functioning.

In my expertise on lifestyle matters, I’d say that those labeled “Liars” are finding themselves in a complex web of relationships, entangled within the influential Sinclair family. They’re maneuvering through their roles with grace and resilience, as the intricacies of their affluent surroundings continue to unfold.

McGregor and Zada, portraying cousins Mirren and Johnny in the series, spoke about how the family-oriented drama caused challenging days on set. In truth, Zada, slated to depict young Haymitch in the upcoming Hunger Games film Sunrise on the Reaping, hinted that many scenes were emotionally intense to shoot, particularly when they had disagreements with their on-screen mothers.

Echoing his sentiment, McGregor shared, “Those were some heavy ones.” 

Speaking from personal experience, I found many relatable aspects in this role. While my situation may not have mirrored that of my character’s relationship with her mother exactly, I could certainly resonate with the overall narrative. The raw vulnerability and emotional turmoil experienced by a 16-year-old girl struck a chord with me, as it likely does for many others.

The captivating book, “We Were Liars,” is set to debut on Prime Video starting June 18th. It’s not just Lockhart whose literary works are finding their way onto our screens. Here’s a peek at other books being adapted into movies and TV shows this year and beyond…

As a lifestyle expert, I can share my personal insights about the intense emotions experienced while filming scenes for “Sunrise on the Reaping,” where I play young Haymitch. Working alongside the talented Mirren and Johnny, portraying our cousins, made the family drama particularly challenging at times. We endured some tough days on set due to these emotional sequences, especially when we found ourselves butting heads with our on-screen mothers. Filming certain scenes was truly a heart-wrenching experience.

Echoing his sentiment, McGregor shared, “Those were some heavy ones.” 

She went on to say, “I believe many people will find it familiar.” Indeed, she found herself in her character, even if not specifically in their relationship with their mother. Instead, it was the vulnerability and pain that a 16-year-old often experiences that resonated with her.

We Were Liars will debut on Prime Video starting June 18. It’s not just Lockhart whose novel is being adapted for the screen. Continue reading to discover other books being made into movies and TV series this year and beyond…

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

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

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The principal actors are Emily Alyn Lind, Subham Maheshwari, Esther McGregor, Joseph Zada, Mamie Gummer, Candice King, Caitlin FitzGerald, and Rahul Kohli.

Premieres: June 18 on Prime Video

What’s Got Us Pumped: This YA thriller has been generating buzz on social media even before BookTok curated its must-read lists. And it’s no surprise why since it revolves around wealthy teen, Cadence Sinclair, who returns to her family’s private island following an accident that gave her amnesia. Upon her arrival at the island, memories of the summer that forever altered her life begin resurfacing—and the surprises keep coming. Moreover, the story “Family of Liars” is being adapted as well, so our journey with the Sinclair family is just beginning.

 

Based On: Jenny Han‘s 2011 book We’ll Always Have Summer

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

Starts streaming: July 16 on Amazon Prime Video

What Makes Us Eager: Following a summer apart from the Cousins in 2024, fans are eager for another visit to reconnect with the developing love triangle between Belly Conklin and brothers Conrad and Jeremiah Fisher. At present, supporters of Jeremiah seem to be enjoying their romance, but the 11-episode third season could unveil which Fisher brother is destined to be Belly’s lasting partner.

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

Leading roles: Freddie Prinze Jr., Jennifer Love Hewitt, 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 Gets Us Pumped: The fourth movie in the well-loved horror series is set to bring back original cast members for the first time in over 20 years. This latest film, a continuation of the 1998 sequel titled “I Still Know What You Did Last Summer,” revolves around a new group of teenagers who are being haunted due to something from their past. However, with Prinze and Hewett returning to play their characters Ray Bronson and Julie James respectively, this new generation might just survive the ordeal. Needless to say, we have our plans sorted for this summer.

According to Julia Whelan’s 2018 book, the following stars will appear: Sofia Carson, Corey Mylchreest, Dougray Scott, Catherine McCormack, Harry Trevaldwyn, Esmé Kingdom, Nikhil Parmar, and Poppy Gilbert. This production premieres on Netflix in August. We’re excited about it because who wouldn’t be drawn to a heartwarming love story unfolding at one of Britain’s esteemed institutions? Here, Carson plays Anna, an American student who pursues her lifelong dream by attending Oxford University and soon finds herself entangled in a transformative romance with local Jamie (Mylchreest).

Based On: Richard Osman‘s 2020 novel

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

In the main cast: Helen Mirren, Pierce Brosnan, Ben Kingsley, Celia Imrie, David Tennant, Naomi Ackie, and Jonathan Pryce

or even more casually:

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

Premieres: August 28 on Netflix

What Makes It Special: The books revolving around four retirees who have a knack for unraveling mysteries are truly charming. With this group of characters, we’re in for an enduring cozy mystery adventure.

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

Featuring: Gary Oldman, Jack Lowden, Kristin Scott Thomas, Saskia Reeves, Rosalind Eleazar, Christopher Chung, Aimee-Ffion Edwards, Ruth Bradley, James Callis, Tom Brooke, and Jonathan Pryce.

The main cast includes Gary Oldman, Jack Lowden, Kristin Scott Thomas, Saskia Reeves, Rosalind Eleazar, Christopher Chung, Aimee-Ffion Edwards, Ruth Bradley, James Callis, Tom Brooke, and Jonathan Pryce.)

Premieres: September 24 on Apple TV+

Why We Can’t Wait: Jackson Lamb and his band of MI-5 outcasts from Slough House are at it again! This time they’re tasked with safeguarding the prime minister against a barrage of perils, all while dealing with their own personal troubles. But remember, we’re discussing the Slow Horses – so expect plenty of bungled operations, Lamb indulging in some questionable treats, and hopefully minimal losses.

This film, titled “Starring: Allison Williams, McKenna Grace, Dave Franco, Mason Thames, Willa Fitzgerald, Scott Eastwood and Clancy Brown,” is set to premiere in theaters on October 24. The movie, based on Colleen Hoover’s 2019 book, has been generating excitement due to the author’s popularity on BookTok and the promise of a compelling romantic drama. The story revolves around Morgan and Clara, whose relationship is strained further when a sudden event forces them to confront the shattered remains of their family.

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

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This movie has the following stars: Glen Powell, Josh Brolin, Lee Pace, Katy O’Brian, Michael Cera, Emilia Jones, Daniel Ezra, and William H. Macy.

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

Premieres: In theaters Nov. 21

What’s Getting Us Pumped: Keep the momentum going with Glen Powell! He steps into Arnold Schwarzenegger’s shoes in the upcoming remake of a film where a man competes in a global game show, pursued by ruthless “Hunters” for cash. What makes it even more chilling is that this movie, along with its release date, is set in the near future – 2025. We’re all in on this thriller, although we must admit, it has us a bit anxious too!

This upcoming Broadway production, sharing the title with its source material and titled “Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West” by Gregory Maguire, boasts 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. Premiering on Nov 21, it’s a must-see for musical theater fans as this adaptation of the beloved Wizard of Oz prequel novel is divided into two thrilling parts, making it a two-weekend event during the Thanksgiving season that we can’t wait to attend!

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

Featuring: Keira Knightley, Guy Pierce, Hannah Waddingham, Daniel Ings, Kaya Scodelario, David Adala, and Gugu Mbatha-Raw

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The Main Cast Includes: Keira Knightley, Guy Pierce, Hannah Waddingham, Daniel Ings, Kaya Scodelario, David Adala, and Gugu Mbatha-Raw

or

Starring in this movie are: Keira Knightley, Guy Pierce, Hannah Waddingham, Daniel Ings, Kaya Scodelario, David Adala, and Gugu Mbatha-Raw.

Premieres: TBD 2025 on Netflix

Why We’re Eager: Experiencing being stranded on a cruise ship is terrifying enough for most, but consider watching someone fall overboard—yet finding it hard to believe when trying to alert others. This, along with a plethora of peril, is the predicament that Knightley finds herself in during Netflix’s rendition of one of Ware’s earlier suspense novels.

Based On: Mary Shelley’s iconic 1818 gothic horror

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

Premieres: November 2025 on Netflix

What’s making us eager: Just the thought of Isaac playing Victor Frankenstein and Elordo taking on the role of the monster is enough to get us pumped up! But what really has us on the edge of our seats is that Guillermo Del Toro, who consistently demonstrates unparalleled expertise in gothic horror, will be bringing his unique vision to life on Netflix after almost two decades.

The upcoming movie, titled “Hamnet,” is based on Maggie O’Farrell’s 2020 novel and features an impressive cast including Paul Mescal, Jessie Buckley, Joe Alwyn, and Emily Watson. It is set to premiere in theaters on December 12. The reason we are excited about this movie is that it tells a heart-rending story of the death of William Shakespeare’s 11-year-old son in the mid-16th century. The book was a huge success, and with Chloé Zhao directing (who co-wrote with O’Farrell), this film promises to be a powerful and unmissable drama.

Based On: Freida McFadden’s 2022 novel

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

Premieres: December 25

What Makes Us Eager: The lineup of actors is captivating enough for us to anticipate this adaptation, as it focuses on a maid joining a wealthy family hiding dark secrets beneath their polished facade. However, with Paul Feig, who has proven his knack for intricate narratives with movies like A Simple Favor and its sequel, at the helm, it’s clear that this promises to be an exhilarating journey.

According to the information provided, we can expect the premiere of a novel adaptation in 2026, titled Hoover’s 2022 novel. The film stars Maika Monroe, Tyriq Withers, Rudy Pankow, Lauren Graham, Bradley Whitford, Lainey Wilson, and Nicholas Duvernay. We’re excited about this production as it revolves around a woman named Kenna who returns to her hometown after five years to reunite with her daughter. Instead, she finds comfort in a local bar owner who gives her another chance. Interestingly, the author collaborated with Lauren Levine in writing the script for this movie.

According to the 2021 novel by Emily Henry:

The main characters are Tom Blyth, Emily Bader, Lucian Laviscount, Jameela Jamil, Lukas Gage, and Sarah Catherine Hook.

Premieres: TBD on Netflix

We’re Thrilled Because: Henry has been making waves in women’s literature lately, so it was inevitable that her books would make it to the big screen. With impressive performances in “The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes” and “My Lady Jane,” Blyth and Bader have shown they could be ideal choices for Alex and Poppy.

Based on: Emily Brontë’s 1847 novel

Release Date: February 13, 2026

Starring: Jacob Elordi and Margot Robbie

Reason for our Anticipation: Time to crank up the iconic tune by Kate Bush, as we return to the haunting moors! Filmmaker Emerald Fennell is reuniting with her team behind Saltburn, including Elordi in the lead role and Robbie serving as producer. They’re giving us a fresh perspective on the timeless tale of Catherine Earnshaw and Heathcliff that we’ve never experienced before.

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’s Got Us Pumped: Gosling previously ventured into space as the first man, but his newest venture takes him beyond our galaxy! After waking up from a coma, he finds himself as the lone survivor of an expedition to the Tau Ceti solar system, which is a whopping 12 light-years away from Earth. But

Based on: Hoover‘s 2021 book

Starring: Anne Hathaway, Dakota Johnson and Josh Hartnett

Premieres: May 15, 2026

What We’re Looking Forward To:First off, let’s take a peek at Anne, Dakota, and Josh. The story revolves around a struggling writer tasked with finishing a popular series following an author’s unexplained accident. With this trio leading the way, the anticipation of watching it unfold on screen is heightened significantly.

Based On: Suzanne Collins’ 2025 novel

Featured Actors: Joseph Zada, Whitney Peak, Mckenna Grace, Elle Fanning, Maya Hawke, Kelvin Harrison Jr., Jesse Plemons, and Ralph Fiennes.
Debut Date: November 20, 2026 (tentative)

Reason for Our Anticipation: The same day Collins announced a new journey to Panem, Lionsgate confirmed they would be bringing to life the highly awaited tale of Haymitch Abernathy, the enigmatic mentor from the 74th Hunger Games who is well known to both Peeta and Katniss. This story will focus on Haymitch’s victory in the 50th Games.

 

Based On: Julia Quinn‘s 2001 Bridgerton novel An Offer From A Gentleman

The main cast includes: Luke Thompson, Yerin Ha, Jonathan Bailey, Claudia Jessie, Nicola Coughlan, Luke Newton, Adjoa Andoh, Ruth Gemmell, Katie Leung, Michelle Mao, and Isabella Wei.

Release Date: TBD 2026 on Netflix

What We’re Looking Forward To: Benedict Bridgerton, a beloved character from the series, has finally found love in the upcoming season. Sophie Baek, a fresh addition to the cast, will play his romantic interest.

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

Premieres: TBD in 2026 on Apple TV+

Why we’re Excited: Is it truly a limited series without Nicole Kidman’s presence? Thorpe’s book, detailing the life of a former Hooters waitress and pro-wrestler’s daughter who resorts to OnlyFans after becoming a single mom at 20, is already captivating. However, with Kidman on board for this eight-episode series, it has undeniably climbed to the top of our must-watch list.

According to author Holly Gramazio, a novel titled “Starring: Juno Temple” is set to premiere on Apple TV+ (release date TBD). This intriguing story revolves around Lauren, who encounters an unexpected surprise when her husband Michael appears at home, a man she has never met before. However, the mystery deepens as another husband takes his place, with more than one hundred husbands emerging from her attic. As Lauren navigates this complex romantic maze, she must grapple with important questions about what she truly desires in life and whether she will seize control to achieve it.

This upcoming series, titled after Patricia Cornwell’s bestselling book series with a total of 26 books, is set to premiere on Amazon Prime Video (release date yet to be determined). The star-studded cast includes Nicole Kidman, Jamie Lee Curtis, Ariana DeBose, Bobby Cannavale, Simon Baker, and Jake Cannavale. With Kidman’s proven track record in captivating series like “Big Little Lies,” “Nine Perfect Strangers,” and “The Undoing,” this new show has already garnered significant interest. The fact that the cast will portray crime-fighting sisters adds an extra layer of intrigue, making it our most anticipated new show of the year.

 

According to Elin Hilderbrand’s upcoming 2023 novel:

Starring: Jennifer Garner

Premieres: TBD on Peacock

Why We Can’t Wait: Hilderbrand is renowned for her captivating Nantucket beach reads. With the addition of A-list actress Jennifer Garner, this story has secured its spot in our must-read list. In the story, Garner plays Hollis, a food blogger whose life takes an unexpected turn due to tragedy. As part of her healing process, she plans a luxurious weekend with her dearest friends, but things don’t go as planned when old friendships are tested and shocking secrets surface. We can’t wait to see what happens next!

Based On: Stephanie Meyer’s 2020 novel
Starring: To Be DeterminedPremieres: Coming Soon on NetflixWhat Makes Us Eager: After a long wait of over a decade, fans will finally get to see Meyer’s retelling of the Twilight story from Edward Cullen’s perspective. What’s more exciting is that this adaptation will be an animated production, and who wouldn’t want to catch a sneak peek of an animated character with sparkly skin? It promises to be a captivating spectacle indeed!

According to Marissa Stapley’s 2021 publication, the upcoming Apple TV+ series titled “TBD” features Anya Taylor-Joy, Drew Starkey, Annette Bening, Timothy Olyphant, and Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor. The reason we are eagerly awaiting its premiere is not just the star-studded cast but also the intriguing plot: a young woman reenters her criminal past to guarantee her future. With Reese Witherspoon’s Hello Sunshine involved in production and an impressive supporting cast, we can’t wait to take our seats!

Based on: Alice Feeney’s 2020 Novel

Featuring: Tessa Thompson, Jon Bernthal, Pablo Schreiber, Crystal Fox, Sunita Mani, and Rebecca Rittenhouse (in leading roles)

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Prominent Cast Members: Tessa Thompson, Jon Bernthal, Pablo Schreiber, Crystal Fox, Sunita Mani, and Rebecca Rittenhouse

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

All these options convey the same information but in slightly different ways.

Premieres: TBD on Netflix

What Makes Us Eager: A gripping thriller that lures a solitary individual back to their roots is an instant yes, and in this limited series, it’s Anna, portrayed by Thompson, who returns after a murder that intrigues a local detective (recent Emmy winner Bernthal), who is also working on the case.

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2025-06-16 14:18