4 book-to-film adaptions we’re loving

There’s nothing quite like the buzz that comes from seeing your favourite books on the big screen. It’s worth noting, that it does come with its fair share of book-lover scrutiny, microscopic detail analysis and the battle between who wins “the book or the movie?”.

But in our humble opinion, getting to sit back and watch the novels you’ve spent quality time reading come to life in the film adds to the excitement, rather than taking from it. 

For readers who don’t have a preference for reading or watching their favourite characters and their narratives, here are four recent or coming soon book-to-film adaptions we’re loving right now. 

The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart is an Australian drama miniseries created by Sarah Lambert and based on the eponymous novel by Australian author, Holly Ringland. 

Winner of the 2019 ABIA General Fiction Book of the Year Award, this international bestseller, now sold to over 30 territories internationally, tells the enchanting and compelling story of a young girl, daughter of an abusive father, who has to learn the hard way that she can break the patterns of the past, live on her own terms, and find her strength.

 'Lush, powerful ...an engrossing novel of female survival.' Bookseller + Publisher

The upcoming film "Force of Nature: The Dry 2" is a sequel to the 2020 movie "The Dry" and is based on the novel "Force of Nature" by Jane Harper. The story follows federal agent Aaron Falk, portrayed by Eric Bana, as he investigates the case of four missing women who went on a hike, with only one returning. The film is set to be released on February 8, 2024, and promises to be a thrilling mystery adaptation. We can’t wait!

The highly anticipated "Dune: Part Two" delves deeper into the journey of Paul Atreides as he joins forces with Chani and the Fremen, embarking on a path of vengeance against those who destroyed his family. As Paul's ominous visions of the future become more apparent, the film explores his efforts to avert the impending catastrophe. With the return of key cast members such as Timothee Chalamet, Zendaya, and Rebecca Ferguson, and the introduction of new characters portrayed by Florence Pugh, Austin Butler, and Lea Seydoux, the sequel promises to be an immersive and captivating cinematic experience.

Director Denis Villeneuve's adaptation of Frank Herbert’s 1965 novel has been split into two parts, with "Dune: Part Two" left on a cliffhanger and paving the way for a potential third instalment. 

Trent Dalton's popular novel, "Boy Swallows Universe," has been adapted into a captivating Netflix series, featuring an exceptional Australian cast. The series brings to life the realism, dark twists, and '80s Australiana that made the novel so great. With its immersive storytelling and unforgettable characters, the adaptation has been widely praised for its faithfulness to the original work and its skilful expansion of the narrative. The series has garnered immense global attention, becoming an absolute success on Netflix and resonating with millions of viewers worldwide. 

Have you watched any of these novel adaptions? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave them in the comments. 

At Red Kangaroo Books, we are dedicated to providing a platform for Australian stories and beyond.