Where the Crawdads Sing, a film adaptation of the bestselling novel of the same name, is finally set to hit screens on July 22, 2022. With its great success in the publishing world, it can be expected that the movie will also perform fairly well, given its fanbase and the anticipation around its release.
Of course, this is nothing new – on-screen adaptations of novels have an inherent excitement and high expectations surrounding them. From the Harry Potter series to Dune, there have been countless books that have been turned into films. Yet, there are many more that fans are patiently waiting for.
More Than This By Patrick Ness
More Than This contains many mature themes that make it a challenging but worthwhile read. Following the young protagonist, Seth, as he navigates the struggles of waking up in a foreign world and slowly discovering the truth of his reality and past, the novel is full of moral lessons and commentaries on society.
This is precisely why Reddit user Alive-Ad-4164 thinks the book deserves a film adaptation, stating that they “feel like the themes and overall story are really relevant to now because it sort of tackles lot of heavy topics like free will… sexual orientation, use of technology and how far should we fully take it to its utmost capacity among others things as well.”
Blood Meridian By Cormac McCarthy
Like many of McCarthy’s works, Blood Meridian has gained a much wider audience and fan following than during its initial release. It follows the journey of The Kid as he travels across the country overages, encountering countless horrific acts of violence and going through tumultuous adventures and struggles in the process.
Like many other books considered unadaptable, Blood Meridian poses many challenges, but fans like Redditor lxsadnax still hope to see it on-screen, stating that “a big part of what makes the book great is the super unique prose, the way it’s written is so distinctive, but I think a super dark and unique tone, atmosphere and visual style could make a good replacement for that aspect of the book.”
Malazan Book of the Fallen By Steven Erikson
A popular epic fantasy series, Malazan Book of the Fallen depicts the tales of various characters as they undergo class struggles, grapple with high magic, and juggle enemies and love. The series contains multiple volumes, each with its own set of complex intricacies in regard to plots, characters, and world-building.
Despite being well-received, its vast nuances and numerous interwoven stories make it difficult to adapt both easily and well. But fans still hope to see it on-screen eventually, such as Redditor deathofmantle, who thinks “the whole series is sort of written in a very cinematic way. Assassin fights, dragons, battles, Gods. There’s no shortage of action or tension… live-action will just make it another level of epic if done right.”
The Secret History by Donna Tartt
The Secret History tells the tale of six friends that find themselves in a web of lies, deception, and elitism as Richard – the newest member and narrator – infiltrates the clique and uncovers the truth. The novel is praised for its passion for classics and use of mystery and is seen as one of the classic novels that deserve a modern movie adaptation.
Amidst many film development cancellations, fans like Reddit user Bears_On_Stilts are still optimistic: “Dark academia has never been bigger than it is now…. and power dynamics, sexual fluidity and bringing back paganism/ancient spirituality all feel very modern and trendy.” Now would be a prime time for The Secret History to finally be adapted on-screen.
The Hyperion Cantos By Dan Simmons
The Hyperion Cantos is a science fiction series that also crosses the boundaries between epic, myth, and fantasy. Simmons’ series is praised for its pacing, world-building, storytelling, and character development – all elements that make it not only a fantastic series but also a great candidate worthy of a film adaptation.
Redditor thecalamitythesis especially wants to see the last two books of the series on-screen, stating that they have “much more of a linear plot and could legit work as a starting point to establish the canon and interest and follow up with a limited series. I would love to see how the Pax is shown … I would also want to see who could pull off Father-Captain DeSoya. I’m not entirely sure on this but my first pass choice might be Oscar Isaac.”
Carter Beats the Devil by Glen David Gold
Based loosely on the life of Charles Joseph Carter, Carter Beats the Devil takes the magician’s life and adds in some fictionalized flair. The novel follows Carter through his climb to success, numerous escape tricks, and the mysteries and intimate detailings of his life, giving a gripping and inspiring novel.
While there have supposedly been talks of the film’s rights being acquired, it has yet to see production, much to the chagrin of fans. Readers recognize the book’s potential, like Redditor jerusha16 who states that “it’s got vaudeville, magic, the secret service, a possible assassination, BMW motorcycles, the invention of television, a pet lion, and a spunky blind girl, all in 1920’s San Francisco” – all the makings for an epic film.
The Thin Executioner By Darren Shan
Shan’s novel, The Thin Executioner, follows the young Jebel as he faces public humiliation due to his inability to live up to the expectations of his father and society. The novel received rave reviews, particularly for interweaving substantial topics like imperialism and toxic masculinity into its gripping narrative.
While Shan’s hit book series, The Saga of Darren Shan, was amongst many young adult series adaptations that were never finished, fans hope this novel will meet a better fate. Reddit user mrmonster459 thinks the book “works both as a great dark fantasy and a great coming of age story about what being a man is (and is not) about. If I had to pick a director, I’d say David Yates, director of the last few Harry Potter movies” to really ensure its success.
The Catcher In The Rye By J.D. Salinger
Despite its popularity and well-executed depiction of teenage angst and societal issues, The Catcher in the Rye has not yet joined the list of best teen book to screen adaptations. This is not only because of the high standards set by its readers but also because of Salinger’s own lack of faith in a successful adaptation.
But this doesn’t prevent readers of the novel from still wanting one. Reddit user CatSpecificTuna expressed their disappointment at the lack of development, stating that they’re “surprised it hasn’t happened yet. People have been talking about a Catcher in the Rye movie for decades, and with the success and controversy surrounding the book it would have a definite attraction for the public.”
Redwall By Brian Jacques
The Redwall series is a British fantasy series for children, featuring talking animals that face many adventures and perils in different time periods. The extensive series holds much sentimental and nostalgic value for its readers. Although the series was briefly adapted into an animated tv series and a single film, both left fans still unsatisfied.
Redditor malachimusclerat still thinks a movie series adaptation could be a profitable venture: “I know it must be intimidating when the source material is a series with dozens of books, but it really seems like the kind of thing Dreamworks or Disney would pounce on. I really wanted that as a kid, all there is one short old cartoon…” In an age of reboots, hopefully Redwall gets the feature films it deserves soon enough.
Neuromancer By William Gibson
Gibson’s debut novel, Neuromancer, achieved much acclaim and it’s easy to see why. From his impressive opening line, the impeccable introduction to the cyberpunk genre, and overall literary mastery, Gibson gave his novel all the workings to be a success amongst critics and readers alike. Yet, it still hasn’t gotten an on-screen adaptation.
While there have been several instances of the film being picked up or speculated for production, all have fallen through. It is also a daunting task, given the book’s cult classic status and the fans’ high expectations. However, countless Redditors cite it as a film adaptation they’d like to see, such as indifferent-person, who says “it would be a dream come true ( if done right ). It would be very cool to have a heist plot in a cyberpunk environment.”
