Anna Kendrick has officially taken the helm as director for Netflix’s eagerly awaited adaptation of The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo, bringing an end to years of speculation and searching for the right creative force behind the project. This move marks a return for Kendrick to the streaming giant, following the success of her debut film Woman of the Hour, a gripping thriller about a serial killer that Netflix acquired for a significant sum at the 2023 Toronto International Film Festival.
Kendrick now holds the responsibility of bringing one of the most sought-after literary adaptations to life. The novel, written by Taylor Jenkins Reid, has captivated readers worldwide, sparking years of fan casting discussions, online debates, and high expectations from fans hoping to see the story translated onto the screen.
A Long-Awaited Adaptation
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo has sold over 24 million copies globally across 43 languages, solidifying its status as a cultural phenomenon. Before Deadline revealed that Anna Kendrick would be directing, the project had been linked to other directors, including Maggie Betts and Leslye Headland, both of whom are no longer involved.
Kendrick’s experience in both acting and directing, particularly in stories with complex and twisted narratives, makes her an ideal fit for this ambitious project. Her previous work on Woman of the Hour showcased her ability to handle intense, character-driven storytelling, which aligns well with the emotional depth of Reid’s novel.
Development of the Screenplay
The screenplay for The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo has been carefully developed, with Liz Tigelaar writing the initial draft and Francesca Sloane continuing to refine it. Taylor Jenkins Reid remains closely involved as an executive producer, ensuring that the adaptation stays true to the novel’s heart and emotional core.
Netflix secured the rights to the book in 2022 and has remained committed to delivering a version that meets the high expectations of its fans. However, this is not the only major literary adaptation that Netflix is working on.
Another Major Release: The Whisper Man
In August, Netflix will release The Whisper Man, based on Alex North’s bestselling novel. The film continues Netflix’s collaboration with AGBO, the production company founded by the Russo brothers. It is a psychological thriller built around a chilling rhyme that signals danger for children. The movie features an acclaimed cast, including Robert De Niro, Michelle Monaghan, and Adam Scott.
The story follows a widowed crime writer whose young son is kidnapped, forcing him into a desperate search for answers. He turns to his estranged father, a retired detective who once captured a notorious serial killer tied to similar crimes. As new disappearances occur, the investigation uncovers unsettling possibilities about whether the threat was ever truly contained.
Directed by James Ashcroft and written by Ben Jacoby and Chase Palmer, the film blends emotional storytelling with suspenseful narrative stakes. Supporting performances from Hamish Linklater, Owen Teague, and Acston Luca Porto add depth to the unfolding mystery. Set for release on August 28, The Whisper Man aims to bring the novel’s atmosphere of dread to the big screen.
What’s Next?
With Anna Kendrick at the helm of The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo and The Whisper Man set for release, Netflix continues to expand its library of adaptations based on popular novels. Fans are eager to see how these projects will translate from page to screen, and the anticipation is building.
What do you think about Anna Kendrick taking on this role and Netflix’s focus on adapting bestsellers? Share your thoughts below.
