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As the summer heats up, so does the excitement for book-to-screen adaptations hitting our screens. This July, we have a diverse lineup of thrilling stories making their way from the pages to our favorite streaming platforms and networks. From scandalous dramas to post-apocalyptic thrillers, here are four adaptations you don’t want to miss:
- V.C. Andrews’ Dawn (Limited Series Premiere, Lifetime – July 8)
V.C. Andrews, the master of gothic horror novels, returns with the haunting adaptation of her 1990 book, Dawn. This limited series takes us into the gripping world of the Cutler family saga. Dawn Longchamp, a teenager facing financial struggles, receives a life-changing opportunity to attend an elite private school. There, she encounters an alluring student from the affluent Cutler clan.
As the story unfolds, unexpected revelations about Dawn’s family history set off a chain of dramatic events. Starring Brec Bassinger as Dawn, this adaptation guarantees all the scandalous melodrama that Andrews’ fans crave. Notable cast members include Donna Mills as the evil Cutler matriarch and Fran Drescher as the charismatic house mother of a performing-arts school.
- Bird Box Barcelona (Film Premiere, Netflix – July 14)
Josh Malerman’s gripping 2014 novel, Bird Box, captivated audiences worldwide in the form of a 2018 Netflix film. Now, prepare yourself for a thrilling journey to Barcelona, Spain, in this sequel film set in the same terrifying universe.
As the world descends into chaos due to supernatural creatures driving people to commit suicide, a devoted father (Mario Casas) tries to protect his young daughter from the impending danger. With suspense and trust issues at every turn, Bird Box Barcelona promises to keep viewers on the edge of their seats. The cast also features the talented Georgina Campbell, known for her exceptional performance in last year’s hit horror film Barbarian.
- Justified: City Primeval (Limited Series Premiere, FX – July 18)
Fans of Elmore Leonard’s iconic U.S. Marshal Raylan Givens are in for a treat with the limited series adaptation, Justified: City Primeval. Timothy Olyphant reprises his role as the lawman in this thrilling crime drama based on Leonard’s novel, City Primeval: High Noon in Detroit. Givens finds himself pursuing a notorious killer known as the Oklahoma Wildman, played by Boyd Holbrook (Logan).
This cat-and-mouse thriller will keep you on the edge of your seat as Givens navigates the urban landscape of Michigan. Catch the tension-filled episodes on FX or stream them on Hulu for an intense summer viewing experience.
- Good Omens (Season 2 Premiere, Prime Video – July 28)
Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett’s beloved 1990 fantasy novel, Good Omens, returns for a highly anticipated second season on Prime Video. This comedic tale follows the unlikely alliance between an angel, Aziraphale (Michael Sheen), and a demon, Crowley (David Tennant), as they team up to prevent the Apocalypse. In this new season, the Archangel Gabriel, portrayed by Jon Hamm (Mad Men), takes center stage, adding an exciting twist to the story. With Gaiman co-writing alongside comedy writer and actor John Finnemore, fans of the original novel can expect a delightful continuation of the witty and imaginative world they fell in love with.
July brings a variety of captivating book adaptations, ranging from thrilling mysteries to supernatural sagas. With these four enticing releases, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this summer. So grab your popcorn, cozy up on the couch, and immerse yourself in the magic of literature brought to life on screen.