Movies

10 Must-See Crime Novel Adaptations Coming Soon!

BBG News

In comparison, cinema is a fairly modern art form, having emerged just over a century ago. In contrast, literature has been a part of our culture for millennia. There’s an abundant source of stories out there, many of which have dedicated fan bases. Over time, film studios have secured the rights to numerous literary works, translating their tales and characters from text to celluloid. Notably, crime novels are a preferred genre for adaptation by Hollywood. Despite their intricate narratives and characters, these films tend to be less expensive and easier to produce compared to genres like science fiction or action movies.

Crime dramas brim with tension and enigma, offering unexpected plot shifts and reversals. They can range from intriguing whodunit murder mysteries to exhilarating cat-and-mouse chases. Essentially, these films often revolve around a detective and an investigation, keeping viewers hooked and eager for more revelations. Here’s a list of ten upcoming adaptations of crime novels, both in film and television formats, that you should keep your eyes peeled for.

10
‘Caught Stealing’

August 29, 2025

In his prime, Hank Thompson was a promising baseball player, but life’s unexpected pitches left him tending bar in 1990s New York. His ordinary life spirals into chaos when he unwittingly becomes entangled in a high-stakes hunt for a vital key sought by crooked police officers and ruthless Russian gangsters. As Hank struggles to stay alive amid the treacherous criminal underworld, danger seems to be lurking around every corner.

Transforming Charlie Huston’s captivating novel “Caught Stealing” into a live-action is none other than Darren Aronofsky, renowned for creating some of the most gripping and psychologically haunting thrillers. Austin Butler takes the lead as Hank, with Zoë Kravitz, Vincent D’Onofrio, Regina King, and Bad Bunny rounding out the cast. Slated for release on August 29, 2025, “Caught Stealing” is expected to offer a fashionable and brutal journey through the criminal underbelly of New York City.

9
‘The Housemaid’

December 25, 2025

A maid named Millie finds herself employed by a wealthy couple, offering her a much-needed fresh start. However, as she becomes accustomed to her new position, she begins to suspect that Nina and Andrew, her employers, are concealing dangerous secrets that surpass the shadows of her own turbulent history. As Millie delves deeper into uncovering the truth about their seemingly tranquil household, she finds herself increasingly entangled in their intricate psychological web.

As a cinephile, I find myself diving into Paul Feig’s latest venture – an adaptation of the captivating thriller penned by Freida McFadden. This book, renowned for its exploration of manipulations and the revelation that looks can be misleading, promises to deliver a rollercoaster ride of suspense and terror. With a stellar ensemble cast featuring Sydney Sweeney as Millie, joined by Amanda Seyfried, Brandon Sklenar, and Michele Morrone, this film is poised to keep audiences on the edge of their seats, much like its written predecessor.

8
‘Crime 101’

TBA 2025

Crime 101″ is an upcoming film, based on the novel of the same title written by celebrated crime author Don Winslow. The story revolves around a detective pursuing a master jewel thief, who abides by a system he refers to as “Crime 101,” a rigid set of rules for executing the ultimate heist.

As a movie enthusiast, I can’t contain my excitement about “Crime 101”! This upcoming production boasts a stellar lineup that includes Marvel Cinematic Universe comrades Chris Hemsworth and Mark Ruffalo, along with the rising talent Barry Keoghan and the experienced powerhouse Halle Berry. In 2023, Amazon secured the rights to this anticipated film after an intense bidding war. Although the official release date remains under wraps, we’re eagerly anticipating its arrival later in the year!

7
‘Thursday Murder Club’

TBA 2025

The highly successful book titled “The Thursday Murder Club,” written by Richard Osman, has sold exceptionally well in the United Kingdom. Since then, it has evolved into a popular series of novels, with the fifth installment scheduled for publication in 2025. Netflix is set to transform the initial novel into an engaging crime comedy series. In this show, “The Thursday Murder Club” will focus on a group of elderly individuals who enjoy solving mysteries and are seen trying to unravel a murder case.

This upcoming movie boasts an experienced group of actors like Helen Mirren, Pierce Brosnan, and Ben Kingsley as part of its star-studded cast. Notably, it will be helmed by Chris Columbus, a renowned filmmaker known for directing the initial “Home Alone” and “Harry Potter” movies. With its esteemed veteran cast, director, and streaming on Netflix – a popular platform – this movie promises to captivate not only older viewers but also potentially younger ones as well.

6
‘The Woman In Cabin 10’

TBA 2025

In the novel “The Woman in Cabin 10” by Ruth Ware, I found myself on a luxurious cruise ship, expecting a tranquil escape. However, for the main character, a journalist named Lo Blacklock, this voyage turned into a terrifying ordeal. Assigned to cover the inaugural trip of an elite vessel, Lo’s peaceful getaway quickly morphed into a nightmare when she saw a woman being pushed overboard in the dead of night. The chilling twist was that every passenger on board was accounted for, leaving her doubting her own perceptions and descending into a spiral of fear and peril.

In this reimagining, the suspenseful drama delves into dread, solitude, and the eerie sensation of being ensnared in a predicament that no one can fathom or validate. Directed by Simon Stone, the film boasts an illustrious ensemble cast. Keira Knightley embodies the character Lo, while Guy Pearce, Hannah Waddingham, Kaya Scodelario, and Gugu Mbatha-Raw take on supporting roles. Netflix has secured the rights for adaptations, and the movie is scheduled to hit screens towards the end of 2025.

5
‘The Devil In The White City’

TBA 2025

2003 saw the publication of “The Devil in the White City,” a gripping historical narrative with a non-fiction basis, that takes place in Chicago during 1893. This was the time when the World’s Columbian Exposition was at its zenith, leaving visitors spellbound by the grandeur and spectacle of its architecture. The protagonist, architect Daniel Burnham, is given the challenge of designing this fair, oblivious to the sinister presence that dwells beneath the shimmering veneer – a notorious serial killer known as Dr. H.H. Holmes, who entices his victims into his macabre “Murder Castle” and carries out heinous acts.

The book skillfully depicts a chilling image of ambition and dishonesty, making it an ideal choice for an exciting movie version. After facing numerous obstacles during its production process, the project has now picked up speed. Leonardo DiCaprio, who obtained the rights in 2010, is currently discussing his role, with Martin Scorsese potentially directing. The film is being supported by 20th Century Studios; however, since it’s only in the early stages of development, there is no final draft of the script or confirmed release date yet.

4
‘Verity’

May 15, 2026

In the story titled ‘Verity’, we meet Lowen Ashleigh, a writer facing financial hardship, who receives an extraordinary chance: to finish the incomplete works of celebrated author Verity Crawford, left disabled following a strange accident. However, as Lowen adapts and becomes comfortable within the Crawford residence, she encounters an autobiography that discloses startling truths about Verity’s past.

Colleen Hoover’s books have frequently been brought to life on screen with outstanding outcomes, and Verity is yet another gripping crime thriller that combines romance and suspense to keep readers hooked. The upcoming movie adaptation boasts a stellar cast, featuring Anne Hathaway as Verity, Dakota Johnson as Lowen, and Josh Hartnett as Jeremy. Michael Showalter directs this production, with filming completed in April 2025. Set for release under the MGM Studios banner on May 15, 2026.

3
‘The Whisper Man’

Likely 2026

Netflix is preparing to adapt Alex North’s “The Whisper Man” for television screens soon. This spine-tingling story focuses on Tom Kennedy, a grieving writer of crime novels who relocates with his son, Jake, to the tranquil town of Featherbank in search of a new beginning. However, beneath its peaceful facade, Featherbank hides a troubled past. Decades ago, a child-killing predator haunted this town, taking away children without a trace. When another child vanishes, Tom becomes entangled in a mystery that compels him to confront his deepest anxieties.

The novel by author North is constructed around a spooky ambiance and ominous suggestions. Notably, Netflix has unveiled its star-studded cast, featuring Robert De Niro, Michelle Monaghan, Adam Scott, and Michael Keaton. Directed by James Ashcroft, this movie marks the sixth joint project between the Russo brothers and Netflix, as they are producing it through their company, AGBO.

2
‘Play Dirty’

Likely 2026

Play Dirty is an upcoming crime thriller that’s adapted from the 1962 novel titled The Hunter, authored by Donald E. Westlake under the pseudonym Richard Stark. The story revolves around themes of action, retribution, and endurance. It follows Parker, a seasoned thief who is tricked and abandoned by his fellow gang members. However, rather than succumbing to his fate, Parker rises up, fueled by vengeance, and tracks down those who wronged him, transforming himself into an unforgiving career criminal.

In a straightforward and unadorned manner, Stark’s writing style cuts through, and the main character is an unconventional hero who adheres to his own skewed moral compass. The Hunter has given birth to a long-running series and numerous movie adaptations. However, this upcoming one is being directed by Shane Black, known for The Nice Guys. Mark Wahlberg assumes the role of Parker, with LaKeith Stanfield, Rosa Salazar, Dermot Mulroney, and Tony Shalhoub also joining the cast. The film’s production is ongoing, so a release date has yet to be announced.

1
‘Kill Your Darlings’

Likely 2026

The upcoming movie titled “Kill Your Darlings” is not to be confused with the 2013 film of the same name. This new version is a unique yet not entirely unprecedented case because it’s based on a book that hasn’t been published yet. Peter Swanson’s “Kill Your Darlings” will make its debut on bookshelves on June 10, 2025. Amazon MGM Studios and United Artists have already secured the rights and are currently in production for the adaptation. Renowned actress Julia Roberts has signed on to co-produce and star in the film. The director of the 2019 film “Ad Astra”, James Gray, will helm this project.

What’s all the excitement surrounding this upcoming book? It could be due to its intriguing and captivating plot. This isn’t your typical murder mystery; instead, it unfolds in reverse, retracing a marriage over twenty-five years to reveal a shocking secret hidden at its core. The concept somewhat resembles Memento, though the exact on-screen storyline remains unclear. As for when we can expect Kill Your Darlings in theaters, some believe it might be as late as 2025, but it’s more probable that we’ll see it in 2026.

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2025-05-31 23:05

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