Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey is set to sail into theaters on July 17, 2026. While you count down to the epic’s release, revisit these seven acclaimed literary adaptations that brilliantly transformed beloved books into unforgettable cinematic experiences and deserve a spot on your watchlist before the film arrives.
The Odyssey
Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey adapts Homer’s ancient Greek epic, chronicling King Odysseus’ perilous journey home after the Trojan War. Led by Matt Damon as Odysseus, the star-studded cast includes Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Zendaya, Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong’o, and others. Ahead of its July 17, 2026 theatrical release, watch these seven acclaimed literary adaptations.
The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring
Based on JRR Tolkien’s beloved fantasy novel, the film follows Frodo Baggins as he embarks on a perilous quest to destroy the One Ring before it falls into the hands of the Dark Lord Sauron. Directed by Peter Jackson, the epic stars Elijah Wood, Ian McKellen, Viggo Mortensen, Sean Astin, Orlando Bloom, Liv Tyler, Cate Blanchett, and Sean Bean. The film won multiple Academy Awards and launched one of cinema’s most iconic trilogies.
Dune
Denis Villeneuve’s adaptation of Frank Herbert’s landmark science-fiction novel follows Paul Atreides as he navigates political intrigue, prophecy, and war on the desert planet Arrakis. The film stars Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, Rebecca Ferguson, Oscar Isaac, Josh Brolin, Jason Momoa, Javier Bardem, Dave Bautista, Stellan Skarsgård, and Charlotte Rampling.
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone
Adapted from JK Rowling’s bestselling novel, the film introduces Harry Potter, a young wizard who discovers his magical heritage and begins his journey at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. The cast includes Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, Rupert Grint, Richard Harris, Maggie Smith, Robbie Coltrane, Alan Rickman, and Tom Felton.
The Chronicles of Narnia
Based on CS Lewis’ timeless fantasy novel, the story follows four siblings who enter the magical land of Narnia and join Aslan in a battle against the White Witch. The film stars William Moseley, Anna Popplewell, Skandar Keynes, Georgie Henley, Tilda Swinton, James McAvoy, and Liam Neeson as the voice of Aslan.
Les Misérables
Victor Hugo’s monumental novel was adapted into an acclaimed musical drama set in 19th-century France. Exploring justice, redemption, love, and revolution, the film features Hugh Jackman, Russell Crowe, Anne Hathaway, Amanda Seyfried, Eddie Redmayne, Samantha Barks, Helena Bonham Carter, and Sacha Baron Cohen.
Little Women
Greta Gerwig’s adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s classic novel follows the March sisters as they navigate love, ambition, family, and personal growth. The ensemble cast includes Saoirse Ronan, Emma Watson, Florence Pugh, Eliza Scanlen, Timothée Chalamet, Laura Dern, Meryl Streep, and Bob Odenkirk. The film earned six Academy Award nominations.
Pride & Prejudice
Joe Wright’s adaptation of Jane Austen’s timeless romance follows Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy as they overcome misunderstandings and social expectations. The film stars Keira Knightley, Matthew Macfadyen, Rosamund Pike, Donald Sutherland, Brenda Blethyn, Judi Dench, Jena Malone, and Carey Mulligan. It remains one of the most beloved adaptations of Austen’s novel.