Anna Kendrick to Direct Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo Film Adaptation

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Anna Kendrick is stepping into a new role.

Elizabeth Banks, known for her role in Pitch Perfect and her previous directing work with Woman of the Hour (2023), will direct a film adaptation of Taylor Jenkins Reid’s 2017 novel, The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo, according to several reports.

Leslye Headland was originally set to direct the film in 2023, but Variety reports she has since left the project for reasons that haven’t been made public.

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo tells the story of a legendary, aging Hollywood actress who finally agrees to tell her life story. In a revealing interview, Evelyn Hugo shares the surprising details of her career and marriages – all seven of them. As she recounts her past, she also explains why she chose Monique Grant, a relatively unknown journalist, to be the one to write it all down.

Netflix acquired the rights to the popular book in 2022, and Liz Tigelaar initially wrote the screenplay. However, a director wasn’t chosen until recently. While Jenkins Reid will executive produce, no actors have been officially cast yet.

Fans have been speculating about who will take over the role of Evelyn. Eiza González, known for her work in Three Body Problem, is among the names being discussed, but she hasn’t confirmed or denied the rumors.

I was so surprised when I heard González say in an interview with TopMob News back in March that he hadn’t even been approached about adapting the book! He immediately added how much he’d love to, and that he’s a huge fan of the story. It’s amazing to me that someone who loves it so much hadn’t been considered yet!

The actor, known for their role in Baby Driver, praised the project, saying it’s very clever and feels modern. They were particularly excited by its realistic and complex portrayal of relationships, and expressed enthusiasm for a well-written script, adding that they would be thrilled to be involved.

Over the years, Taylor Jenkins Reid, the author of the popular book Daisy Jones & The Six (which was also made into a TV show), and the author have become friends.

González shared her admiration for author Taylor, saying, ‘I think she’s incredible. I’ve read everything she’s written, and we actually write letters to each other!’

Over the years, they’ve become so close that the 30-year-old has even been able to read early drafts of Jenkins Reid’s books.

González shared that the author would send her books in advance so she could read them and offer feedback. She expressed her admiration for the author, calling her very talented.

Okay, so everyone’s still being SO secretive about the Evelyn Hugo adaptation – it’s killing me! But, while we wait for any little crumb of info about that masterpiece, I figured I’d share what I know about other book-to-screen projects. Seriously, I’m tracking everything!

The upcoming Apple TV+ series is based on Laura Dave’s novel, The First Time I Saw Him, which will be available for purchase on January 6, 2026. The series stars Jennifer Garner, Angourie Rice, David Morse, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, Judy Greer, and Rita Wilson, and will premiere on February 20, 2026.

I’m absolutely hooked on the new season of The Last Thing He Told Me! It’s been five years since Owen disappeared, and Hannah and Bailey have finally started to build a peaceful life. But just when things seem calm, Owen unexpectedly comes back into the picture, and then a terrible family event throws everything into chaos. Now, they’re on the run, and I’m on the edge of my seat trying to figure out what’s going to happen next! It’s a thrilling ride, and I can’t recommend it enough.

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

The show stars 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: Part One: January 29, 2026; Part Two: February, 26, 2026, on Netflix

Fans will be thrilled to see Benedict Bridgerton finally find love in the next season, after spending three seasons searching for his place in his family and figuring out who he is. Joining the cast as his love interest, Sophie Baek, is newcomer Ha.

Based on: Emily Brontë’s 1847 novel

Release Date: In theaters February 13, 2026

Starring: Jacob Elordi and Margot Robbie

We’re thrilled to announce a new film adaptation of Wuthering Heights! Director Emerald Fennell, who brought us Saltburn, is working again with stars Jacob Elordi and Robbie to create a fresh and unique take on the story of Catherine Earnshaw and Heathcliff. Get ready to return to the dramatic moors!

This film is based on the 2022 novel by Hoover and stars Maika Monroe, Tyriq Withers, Rudy Pankow, Lauren Graham, Bradley Whitford, Lainey Wilson, and Nicholas Duvernay. It will be released in theaters on February 13, 2026. The story follows Kenna, who returns to her hometown after five years hoping to reconnect with her daughter. She unexpectedly finds support from a local bar owner who offers her a second chance. Notably, the film features the author co-writing the screenplay with Lauren Levine, marking one of several adaptations of her best-selling books over the next few years.

This new series is based on the bestselling book series by Patricia Cornwell, which includes 26 novels. The show stars Nicole Kidman, Jamie Lee Curtis, Ariana DeBose, Bobby Cannavale, Simon Baker, and Jake Cannavale. It will premiere on Prime Video on March 11, 2026. We’re especially excited because Kidman consistently delivers captivating performances (like in Big Little Lies, Nine Perfect Strangers, and The Undoing), and this time she’ll be playing one of two crime-fighting sisters – making it a top contender for our favorite new show of the year.

 

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

Starring: Ryan Gosling, Sandra Hüller and Milana Vayntrub

Release Date: In theaters March 20, 2026

We’re thrilled about this new project! Ryan Gosling has played a spaceman before, but this time, he’s the only survivor of a mission to the Tau Ceti star system—over 12 light-years away. After waking up from a coma, he’s on his own and has to finish the mission: fix a problem that’s causing the sun to dim and prevent humanity from going extinct. No big deal, right?

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

The series will debut on Apple TV on April 15, 2026. We’re particularly excited because of the casting of Nicole Kidman! The show is based on a fantastic book about a woman who navigates single motherhood and unexpectedly finds success on OnlyFans, and with Kidman on board, it’s become a top priority to watch. The eight-episode limited series promises a compelling story.

Based on: Hoover‘s 2021 book

Starring: Anne Hathaway, Dakota Johnson and Josh Hartnett

Premieres: In theaters May 15, 2026

We’re thrilled about this project, especially with Anne, Dakota, and Josh on board! The story—about a writer taking over a popular book series after the original author has an accident—is full of unexpected turns. Having these three talented actors bring it to life on screen makes it even more exciting.

Based On: The Book of Magic by Alice Hoffman

Starring: Nicole Kidman, Sandra Bullock, Stockard Channing, Dianne Weist, Joey King

Premieres: In theaters September 18, 2026

We’re thrilled to announce the long-awaited sequel! Almost thirty years after the first film, this new movie – based on a novel by Joe Hoffman – picks up the story with Sally, Gillian, Frances, and Jet. They’re now facing a family curse that’s starting to affect their daughters and granddaughters.

Based On: Suzanne Collins’ 2025 novel

The film stars Joseph Zada, Whitney Peak, Mckenna Grace, Elle Fanning, Maya Hawke, Kelvin Harrison Jr., Jesse Plemons, and Ralph Fiennes. It will be released in theaters on November 20, 2026.

We’re thrilled to announce that Lionsgate will be making a movie about the young Haymitch Abernathy, Katniss and Peeta’s mentor! This news came on the same day as the announcement of the next Collins book. The film will cover Haymitch’s own victory in the 50th Hunger Games, revealing the events that shaped him into the character we know.

 

This movie is based on Ali Hazelwood’s popular 2021 novel. Starring Lili Reinhart and Tom Bateman, it’s a big-screen adaptation of the fake dating romance that became a sensation on #BookTok. What makes this project even more interesting? It originated as fanfiction inspired by Star Wars characters Rey and Kylo Ren, and Tom Bateman is married to Daisy Ridley, who played Rey! We’re definitely intrigued to see how this story unfolds.

 

Based on Holly Gramazio’s 2024 novel and starring Juno Temple, this upcoming Apple TV series will premiere soon. The story centers around Lauren, who comes home one day to find a husband she’s never met. Soon, she discovers a never-ending stream of husbands are appearing from her attic! As Lauren deals with this unusual situation, she begins to question what she truly wants out of life and whether she’ll take control to achieve it.

This new series is based on Elin Hilderbrand’s 2023 novel and stars Jennifer Garner. It will be available to stream on Peacock, with a release date yet to be announced. Garner plays Hollis, a food blogger whose life is disrupted by a personal tragedy. To help cope, she plans a special weekend getaway with her best friends, but old tensions and surprising secrets threaten to derail the trip. With a beloved author like Hilderbrand and a star like Garner, this series is definitely one to watch!

This new series is based on Stephanie Meyer’s 2020 novel. While fans waited over ten years for a retelling of Twilight from Edward Cullen’s perspective, Netflix will soon release an animated version. Seeing the animated version of the famously sparkly vampire is sure to be a hit!

This new Apple TV series is based on Marissa Stapley’s 2021 book and stars Anya Taylor-Joy and Drew Starkey in the leading roles, with Annette Bening, Timothy Olyphant, and Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor also featuring. The story follows a young woman who returns to a life of deception, mirroring the upbringing she knew, in hopes of building a secure future. With Reese Witherspoon’s Hello Sunshine producing and a strong supporting cast, it’s a show we’re eagerly anticipating.

Based On: Emily Henry‘s 2024 novel

Starring: TBD

Premieres: TBD on Netflix

We’re looking forward to the upcoming adaptation of Henry’s popular 2024 novel! It follows Daphne as she rebuilds her life after her fiancé, Peter, ends their engagement to pursue a relationship with his childhood friend, Petra. Luckily, Daphne receives some unexpected help from Petra’s ex, Miles.

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2026-06-01 22:51