If you’re a fan of great stories and can’t resist the thrill of seeing your favorite book characters come to life, 2025 is going to be a fantastic year. From psychological thrillers and romantic comedies to dystopian adventures and literary classics, here’s your ultimate guide to the most anticipated book-to-screen adaptations coming this year.
🎬 The Running Man by Stephen King (as Richard Bachman)
Director Edgar Wright brings a fresh take on King’s dystopian thriller, aiming for a more faithful adaptation than the 1987 film. Starring Glen Powell, this action-packed narrative follows a man participating in a deadly game show where survival is the ultimate prize. Scheduled for release on November 7, 2025
🐖 Animal Farm by George Orwell
Andy Serkis directs this animated adaptation of Orwell’s allegorical novella. Featuring voices like Seth Rogen and Woody Harrelson, the film explores themes of power and corruption through the lens of a farm animal rebellion. Set to premiere on July 11, 2025.
💔 Wish You Were Here by Renée Carlino
This poignant romance follows a woman who embarks on a whirlwind night with a man, only to discover he is terminally ill. Their journey together becomes a heartfelt exploration of love and loss. Starring Isabelle Fuhrman and Mena Massoud, the film is slated for release on January 17, 2025.
💔 The Perfect Marriage by Jeneva Rose
Jeneva Rose’s gripping thriller about a high-powered attorney defending her husband in a murder trial is being adapted for the screen. The sequel, The Perfect Divorce, continues the suspenseful saga, delving deeper into themes of trust and betrayal.
💘 Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
Netflix is producing a new six-part adaptation of Austen’s classic novel, with Olivia Colman as Mrs. Bennet and Emma Corrin as Elizabeth Bennet. Written by Dolly Alderton and directed by Euros Lyn, this series aims to bring fresh perspectives to the timeless tale of love and social dynamics. Production is scheduled to begin in the UK later in 2025.
🔍 Missing You by Harlan Coben
Coben’s suspenseful novel about a detective uncovering secrets through an online dating site is set for adaptation. Known for intricate plots and unexpected twists, this story promises to keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
🧑🎤 Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy by Helen Fielding
The beloved Bridget Jones returns in this adaptation of Fielding’s third novel in the series. Exploring themes of love, loss, and single parenthood, this installment offers both humor and heartfelt moments.
🧙♂️ The Electric State by Simon Stålenhag
Set in an alternate 1997, this sci-fi narrative follows a teenage girl and her robot companion on a journey through a dystopian America. The adaptation is anticipated to deliver stunning visuals and a poignant story.
🕵️ The Amateur by Robert Littell
This espionage thriller centers on a CIA cryptographer seeking justice after his fiancée’s murder. The adaptation is expected to delve into themes of revenge and the complexities of intelligence work.
🐶 Dog Man by Dav Pilkey
Pilkey’s popular children’s series about a canine superhero is being adapted into an animated feature, promising fun and adventure for younger audiences.
Dog Man: The Supa Epic Collection: From the Creator of Captain Underpants (Dog Man #1-6 Box Set)
🏠 The Housemaid by Freida McFadden
One of the biggest psychological thrillers in recent years is getting the screen treatment. The Housemaid, known for its jaw-dropping twists and eerie domestic tension, is in development for a feature adaptation. Fans of dark secrets and unreliable narrators won’t want to miss this one, releasing on December 19th.
🧳 The Woman in Cabin 10 by Ruth Ware
This atmospheric thriller set on a luxury cruise has been optioned for film, and production is underway. Expect an intense, suspenseful ride as a travel journalist witnesses something—or someone—go overboard, only to be told the cabin was never occupied.
💕 People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry
Emily Henry’s beloved friends-to-lovers story is headed to the big screen. With its witty banter, nostalgic summer vibes, and heartfelt moments, it’s poised to become a favorite rom-com of the year.
People We Meet on Vacation
From the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Funny Story comes a sparkling novel that will leave you with the warm, hazy afterglow usually reserved for the best vacations.
Two best friends. Ten summer trips. One last chance to fall in love.
✍️ Kill Your Darlings by Peter Swanson
This chilling thriller about a writer whose fictional plot mirrors a real-life murder is currently in development. Expect a gripping adaptation full of twists, blurred lines between fiction and reality, and a haunting look at the writer’s mind.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re into pulse-pounding thrillers, swoon-worthy romances, or thought-provoking dystopias, 2025 has a screen adaptation for you. Be sure to read (or reread!) these books before they hit theaters and streaming services—and follow Lilli Digest for more updates on literary adaptations, gift guides, and curated finds.
