Teen Books-to-Movies 2015

It’s almost time for Mockingjay – Part One!!! I’m unbelievably excited, but this post isn’t about my JLaw obsession. It’s about a few upcoming movies based on YA books, which is really becoming a thing (which I’m happy about of course!) The Divergent and Maze Runner adaptations did well in theaters. The Fault in Our Stars movie did outstanding, and of course the Hunger Games movie adaptations can’t be stopped. Here’s the next batch of YA books to movies, some that will surely be hits and some that might, however unfortunate, prove to be misses.
 

The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part One

Release Date: SOON! Less than a week! I’m so excited! (BTW, that’s November 21.)

In District 13 after she literally shatters the games forever, Katniss Everdeen works to save Peeta and a nation moved by her courage under the leadership of President Coin and the advice of her trusted friends.

Why I’m Excited: Because the Catching Fire movie cliffhanger was amazing! Peeta’s in the grasp of President Snow and Katniss is in District 13 and I need to know what happens next! Even though I do know, of course, but I want to see what happens next. I have to admit I’m nervous about the cliffhanger that’s surely coming at the end of Mockingjay – Part One. Actually, Emma Stone made me nervous about it long ago…

"I feel like if Mockingjay is split into two movies, they’ll end the first one at Katniss and Peeta’s reunion. Like it’ll show him ring her neck and Boggs punch him and then boom credits and we’re all just sitting there like this." -Emma Stone on Hunger Games

Insurgent

Release Date: March 20, 2015                Status: Post-production

Beatrice Prior must confront her inner demons and continue her fight against a powerful alliance which threatens to tear her society apart.

Why I’m Excited: Because Insurgent was my favorite book in the Divergent series and I’m eager to see how they adapt it to the big screen! Though I am skeptical about Tris with short blondish hair, the first teaser trailer’s pretty cool.

 

Fallen

Release Date: 2015                               Status: Post-Production

A young girl finds herself in a reform school after therapy since she was blamed for the death of a young boy. At the school she finds herself drawn to a fellow student, unaware that he is an angel, and has loved her for thousands of years.

Why I’m Excited: Because this is finally happening! This was one of the first books I read when I was getting back into YA five years ago. I didn’t think the movie was ever going to be made, then it looked like it was going to be a TV movie but now IMDB says it’s coming to theaters! Woot!

 

Also, ICYMI… Paper Towns is filming!

#PaperTowns Day 6. pic.twitter.com/48rBd04LAT
— John Green (@johngreen) November 10, 2014

 

Also, two of my favorite YA books have been optioned! I’ll leave you with the awesome announcement:

So, this is happening: #JustOneDay #JustOneYear #JustOneMovie: http://t.co/gf6WVGFZl8
— gayle forman (@gayleforman) November 14, 2014

MORE Teen Books-to-Movies 2014 & Beyond

So, I may have already written about the major YA books-to-movies coming out in the next six months. In my last books-to-movies post, I covered The Fault in Our Stars, The Giver and If I Stay. And a year ago, I talked about The Maze Runner in this post, whose release date has since changed. Therefore, I decided to do something different with this semi-annual post about YA books-to-movies. I’m going to share some recent movie news about YA films currently in development. The earliest we might see these in theaters is 2015 and it will likely be later as these awesome adaptations are still in the very early stages of the book-to-movie process. 

The 5^th Wave

Cassie has survived the first four waves of an alien invasion that has devastated Earth’s population and forced the remaining civilization back to the Stone Age. As she navigates the 5^th wave of the invasion, she is also searching for her younger brother, who was taken from her months before.

In this recent article, it was announced that the lead role of Cassie will be played by Chloe Grace Moretz. Moretz is also starring in If I Stay (in theaters in August), so she’s no stranger to the YA book-to-movie scene.

Eleanor & Park

Misfit teenagers Eleanor and Park bond over comic books and music on the school bus. But when their friendship extends past their encounters on the bus, they are faced with obstacles to their budding romance.

Dreamworks recently announced that they optioned the film rights to this bestseller, with author Rainbow Rowell signed on to write the screenplay. The current plan is to start filming in 2015.

 

Paper Towns

Paper Towns is a story of two high schoolers, Margo and Quentin, who shared a traumatic childhood experience then reunite to exact revenge on anyone who Margo feels has hurt her. Then Margo disappears and only Quentin has the information to find her.

This announcement means John Green will have another book coming to the big screen soon(ish). The same studio, producers and screenwriters as The Fault in Our Stars movie (in theaters June 6) will bring Paper Towns to life, and even one of the actors will stay on. Nat Wolff, who plays Isaac in TFIOS, will play Quentin in Paper Towns.

EXCITING NEWS! The #TFIOSMovie team is getting the band back together for PAPER TOWNS! http://t.co/PD3GMCu77m
— John Green (@realjohngreen) March 24, 2014

That was a good day on the internet.

I am excited about ALL of these! But I’m trying not to be too excited, because it will be a long wait until any of these projects in development grace the big screen. But still, yay!

Five Things I want from YA in 2014

Last week I wrote about my goals for 2014. But there are also some things I'm hoping/wishing/DYING for in the YA genre this year. In no particular order, I want...

 

More News like this:

Here it is! All twelve authors of MY TRUE LOVE GAVE TO ME + more details: http://t.co/SDccunDXdF
— Stephanie Perkins (@naturallysteph) January 7, 2014

Also an announcement from John Green re: new book. I know he’s writing and I don’t want to rush him (okay, maybe I do a little) but I just want NEWS that another book is coming. I just want the knowledge. It will comfort me.

 

More Diversity

YA books can be boundary-breaking, but the genre is strides away from being where it should concerning diversity. I desire a wider range of characters when it comes to race/creed/orientation/background/situation. As a reader, I have to seek this out, and I would like it to be reflected on the shelves. For that to happen, it has to be a group effort. Let’s get this done, folks!

 

Movie Releases/Announcements

TFIOS. Divergent. The Giver. If I Stay. Maze Runner. Mockingjay. I WANT THEM ALL. Now, please. Also, I want optioned movies moving to development. And in development movies moving to filming. You get my drift. I want more YA books becoming movies.

 

Series Endings

I need Ruin and Rising (by Leigh Bardugo), The One (by Keira Cass), Dreams of Gods and Monsters (by Laini Taylor). I want the closure they will provide. And authors, be nice. No one needs to die. Except maybe the bad guys…

 

The Next Big Thing

I love a good dystopian novel, but it recently came to my attention that the subgenre is waning in popularity. Dystopia burned bright and fast due to the popularity of Hunger Games and Divergent. Even though they are still on our radar with the upcoming movies, I’m curious as to what will be next. Because right now, I have NO IDEA what's coming.

 

Honorable Mention:

Debuts, series and authorial (or NEW BOOKS)

Winner’s Curse, Side Effects May Vary, The Inventor’s Secret, Death Sworn, PANIC. The book by Lauren Oliver… I’m not actually panicking. Though I’m starting to as I realize there is not enough time to read all of this awesomeness. Sigh, just another reason I need a timeturner.

Teen Books-to-Movies 2014

With the release of Catching Fire next month, I thought I’d dive back into the teen book-to-movie realm. Here are four more YA books that will be movies in 2014! And don’t forget to check out my previous posts on teen books-to-movies (last October & April), as some I’ve highlighted previously (such as the much anticipated Divergent) are not out yet!

 

Seventh Son (published as Last Apprentice)

 

Release Date: January 17, 2014          Status: Post-Production

An 18th century adventure story centered on young Thomas, who is apprenticed to the local Spook to learn to fight evil spirits. His first great challenge comes when the powerful Mother Malkin escapes her confinement while the Spook is away.

Why I’m Excited:

Because this movie adaption flew under my radar, and I’m surprised to learn its release is almost upon us! Even though I haven’t read this series, I’m sure it’s something I would like and the cast line-up is definitely something I like. Ben Barnes was particularly intriguing (read = HOT) as Prince Caspian, and I’m excited to see him as the hero of this tale. Also starring in this fantasy flick are Julianne Moore and Jeff Bridges. Even though the trailer is a little over-the-top for my taste, the effects look great and the story interests me enough to get me to the theater.

 

The Fault in Our Stars

Release Date: June 6, 2014          Status: Filming

Hazel and Gus are two teenagers who share an acerbic wit, a disdain for the conventional, and a love that sweeps them on a journey. Their relationship is all the more miraculous given that Hazel's other constant companion is an oxygen tank, Gus jokes about his prosthetic leg, and they met and fell in love at a cancer support group.

Why I’m Excited:

Because I’ve been following John Green’s videos (via Vlogbrothers) and his tweets from TFIOS set! This is by far the movie I’m most looking forward to in 2014, and not just because of the fantastic cast (Is Shailene Woodley the teen book-to-movie sweetheart or what?) but also because of the involvement of the author and the care of the crew. Even though I’m unsure the movie will live up to the awesomeness of the book, it certainly has the potential! I’ll be heading to the theater soon after its release!

 

The Giver

Release Date: August 15, 2014          Status: Filming

In a seemingly perfect community, without war, pain, suffering, differences or choice, a young boy is chosen to learn from an elderly man about the true pain and pleasure of the "real" world.

Why I’m Excited:

Because this book was monumental for me growing up, and I’m hoping the movie adaption will be mystical yet simple. The Giver was my first dystopian book, before I even know what dystopia was. I have to admit I’m skeptical about Taylor Swift, but the rest of the cast (Meryl Streep, Katie Holmes, Jeff Bridges, Alexander Skarsgard) is full of star power. I have high expectations for this one, and I hope they are not dashed when I make the trip to the theater!

 

If I Stay

Release Date: 2014          Status: Pre-production

A chronicle of a fatal car accident involving 17-year-old musician Mia and her boyfriend.*

Why I’m Excited:

Because this book is unconventional in its plot, so I’m intrigued to see how it will translate on screen. It could be wonderful, or it could go the way of other teen book-to-movie flops. Of course I’m hoping it’s the former, because I love this novel (and everything else Gayle Forman’s written). Chloe Grace Moretz is signed on to star as Mia, which will put some force behind it as filming begins. I’m curious to see who is cast as Adam, as that is currently not listed on IMDB. It’s too early to tell, but assuming this hype is there and the trailer is decent, I will head out to the theater for this one!

 

 

 Please Note: The movie descriptions are courtesy of IMDB.

* This description is not an accurate representation of the book’s plot, and therefore I’m guessing it will not be accurate for the movie. However I’m sure when more information is available regarding this adaptation, IMDB will be updated.　

MORE Teen Books-to-Movies 2013 & Beyond

The quest to discover the next great teen book-to-movie blockbuster continues! Last October I discussed five movies, some which have since been released and some which are still months away from gracing the screen. But five movies is barely the tip of the iceberg when it comes to YA books that are being made into movies, especially if we consider those in development. However these five teen flicks are more of a sure thing and will be coming to a theater near you soon(ish)!   

Percy Jackson: Sea of Monsters

Release Date: August 7, 2013                      Status: Post-Production

In order to restore their dying safe haven, the son of Poseidon and his friends embark on a quest to the Sea of Monsters to find the mythical Golden Fleece and to stop an ancient evil from rising.

Why I’m Excited:

Okay, so maybe excited isn’t the right word for my feelings toward this movie. Curious and intrigued would be better descriptions since I was underwhelmed with the movie version of Lightening Thief. Even though I’m surprised Sea of Monsters got the green light, I enjoyed the first one enough to continue on. Also, I adore that Nathan Fillion is playing Hermes!

*My Viewing Choice: Redbox

Catching Fire

Release Date: November 22, 2013            Status: Post-Production

Katniss and Peeta are dethroned from their respective victory riches and are put back into the arena for the most climatic and menacing of the Hunger Games, known as the Quarter Quell.

Why I’m Excited:

Because the first movie didn’t disappoint at all (for me). I’m thrilled/anxious/waiting impatiently for the sequel, and still wishing it wasn’t due out 7 months from now (20 months after Hunger Games was released!). I’m excited for the hype of the Quarter Quell, the beginnings of the revolution and more of the Katniss-Peeta-Gale love triangle. But seriously, the Harry Potter movies only got better as they progressed so I’m wishing/hoping/praying the same will be true for Hunger Games.

My Viewing Choice: 3D Theater

The Book Thief

Release Date: January 17, 2014                  Status: Filming

While subjected to the horrors of WWII Germany, young Liesel finds solace by stealing books and sharing them with others. Under the stairs in her home, a Jewish refuge is being sheltered by her adoptive parents.

Why I’m Excited:

Because the book is narrated by Death, and I’m curious to see how that is translated to the big screen. It has the potential to be masterful, eerie yet intriguing. In my imagination, a movie version of this book would be a cross between Spielberg’s Schindler’s List and Scorsese’s Hugo, which I can only hope will be close to the truth. It should be timeless yet imaginative.

My Viewing Choice: Matinee or Budget Theater

Vampire Academy: Blood Sisters

Release Date: February 14, 2014               Status: Pre-production

Rose Hathaway is a Dhampir, half human/vampire, guardians of the Moroi, peaceful, mortal vampires living discretely within our world. Her legacy is to protect the Moroi from bloodthirsty, immortal Vampires, the Strigoi. This is her story.

Why I’m Excited:

Because even though vampires may be passé, I’m anxious to see how they will be portrayed in this movie and who is willing to take the risk in the post-Twilight scene. This series is quite popular, and the movie version has potential depending on the trailer and marketing. It could be a cult classic, or it could fall by the wayside (like, say, Beautiful Creatures).

My Viewing Choice: Redbox

 

The Maze Runner

Release Date: February 14, 2014               Status: Pre-production

Set in a post-apocalyptic world, young Thomas is deposited in a community of boys after his memory is erased, soon learning they're all trapped in a maze that will require him to join forces with fellow "runners" for a shot at escape.

Why I’m Excited:

Because it’s a dystopian book that I devoured, and I’m glad to have discovered that it’s nearing production! Full of mystery, the book was unputdownable for me and I’m especially glad that the author James Dashner is one of the screenplay writers. However, I am curious in regards to its release date, which is just a month before another teen dystopian book-turned-movie, Divergent. There may be a showdown heading our way.

My Viewing Choice: Theater

*Even though I would love to see all of these in theaters, movie ticket prices don’t coincide with my budget. Therefore I’ve decided to add a section to give an easy describer of how important each movie is to me by how much I’m willing to spend to see it. (I should note these are the average prices I’ve come across in Indiana.)

3D Theater: $15                                        

Theater: $10

Matinee or Budget Theater: $5                                 

Redbox: $2

Please Note: The movie descriptions are courtesy of IMDB.

Teen Books-to-Movies 2013 & Beyond

With the teen book-to-movie industry grossing billions of dollars over the past decade, film rights to a new teen book are a hot commodity. Think Harry Potter, Twilight, Hunger Games. Even Princess Diaries, Nick & Norah’s Infinite Playlist and Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants. Everyone is vying for the next Hunger Games-like phenomenon movie release, so a lot of the new and great teen books have been snagged up. A majority of these will not make it to the theaters due writing, casting or development issues. However, here are some movies based on amazing teen books that will be coming soon.

Beautiful CreaturesWrong?

Release date: February 13, 2013                                      Status: Post-Production

Beautiful Creatures takes place in a supernatural South and features Lena, a girl with a secret, and Ethan, whose desire to leave is replaced by a connection to Lena. Written by Kami Garcia and Margaret Shohl, the fourth book in the series, Beautiful Redemption, is coming October 23.

Why I’m excited:

Because Beautiful Creatures is the best of paranormal romance (ghosts, witchcraft and love attractions) with a Southern flare, à la True Blood. The movie stars Viola Davis and Emma Thompson while introducing some fresh faces as the lead characters Lena (Alice Englert) and Ethan (Alden Ehrenreich).

How I Live Now

Release date: 2013                                                          Status: Post- Production

Daisy, a native New Yorker, moves to the English countryside to live with her cousins. They are alone when WWIII breaks out, and love blossoms as war bears down. 

Why I’m excited:

Because the dystopian yet timeless feel of the book will likely translate great on screen. I’m curious to see the movie depiction as it stars Saoirse Ronan (of Lovely Bones and City of Ember) and was filmed in England. Also, the author Meg Rosoff tweeted about visiting the set, which made me even more excited. However, I am fearful that the American release will be small or even nonexistent as it currently only lists a UK release date of 2013.

Mortal Instruments: City of Bones

Release date: August 23, 2013                                    Status: Filming

When Clary encounters Shadowhunters at a club in downtown Manhattan, she witnesses a murder and is thrust into an unknown supernatural world. This action-packed story has five sequels, with the last coming in March 2014.

Why I’m excited:

Because this is one of the first teen series that I loved. It made an impression on me, and helped me (along with many other books) fall in love with the genre. Plus, I love the buzz about the movie. The filming is followed closely by the fan girls, and the author Cassandra Clare will often provide updates through blog, tweet or tumble. The release will be one of those with a large, excited fan base who will show up to the theater in droves.           

 

Ender’s Game

Release Date: November 1, 2013                              Status: Post- Production

This science fiction novel is about Ender Wiggin, a boy who has been trained in Battle School to take on the Formics. Two previous attacks by these ant-like beings have left humankind devastated. This classic, written by Orson Scott Card, has many sequels and a companion series.

Why I’m excited:

Because this movie is a long-time coming. Harrison Ford, Ben Kingsley, Abigail Breslin star in this classic come-to-life. Also, Asa Butterield (Hugo in Hugo Cabret) will star as Ender, so an experienced young actor has taken on the role. This movie is bound to be one of the most anticipated releases of 2013.

Divergent

Release date: March 21, 2014                                     Status: Pre-Production

Living in a dystopian Chicago, Beatrice has to choose which faction of society she will join at 16. Her surprising choice leads her down an adventurous and dangerous path. Divergent is the first in a trilogy written by Veronica Roth, and the yet-to-be-named finale is set to be released next fall.

Why I’m excited:

Because it’s dystopian, and it takes place in a futuristic Chicago (a nearby city for me). Plus, I feel as though Divergent has the potential to be close to Hunger Games on the phenomenon scale. However, we will have to wait and see, as the release is a year and a half out. Hopefully our patience will pay off!