Historical fiction can transport us to times and places we would never have had the chance to visit otherwise. Through creativity and research, authors can make readers feel like they are right there on the front lines of World War II or heading out west during the gold rush.
When these books are adapted for the big screen, they don’t always reach the heights of world-building and intrigue in the books. However, when done right, they can provide a fresh look at a beloved story.
There have been so many great movies, especially period pieces, based on great works of literature. Here are five works of historical fiction that would make great movie adaptations in the next few years.
Alias Grace
Margaret Atwood’s 1996 novel Alias Grace is a fictionalized telling of real-life murders in 19th century Canada. It was slated for a film adaptation in 2012, however, it became a television series instead.
The story and subject matter are perfect for the current climate. After the success of the Hulu series The Handmaid’s Tale, a murder/true-crime-adjacent story by Atwood would be a great addition to the upcoming film slate. The story is layered, with plenty of twists and intrigue.
At its heart, the audience is asked to reckon with the question: “Was the right person arrested for this crime?” It’s easy to see how this novel could become a compelling drama in the hands of someone like Celine Sciamma.
War Trash
Written like a memoir of the Chinese protagonist’s time in the Korean War, War Trash reads like a first-person recap of a war thriller. It would work perfectly as a military drama, especially Yu Yuan’s time as a POW.
Inspirational films about perseverance in the face of overwhelming adversity have always been a mainstay of Hollywood. War Trash not only checks that box, but also offers a glimpse into a war beyond the usual World War II or Vietnam movies.
Films like Unbroken, 13 Hours, and even Hacksaw Ridge are perfect templates for adapting this exciting novel for the big screen. Several filmmakers could do well with such rich source material, but a Chinese director with experience helming thoughtful, textured stories like Chloe Zhao would knock it out of the park.
Cloudsplitter
There is never a bad time to tell the stories of abolitionists.
Cloudsplitter is a fictionalized novel that tells the story of abolitionist John Brown, narrated by his son, Owen Brown. John Brown fought to abolish slavery, but he also led a fascinating life.
A film adaptation could be pretty compelling due to the amount of loss endured by the Brown family when John’s children were young.
It would make a great character study, showing the events of Brown’s life that ultimately led him to turn his home into a stop along the Underground Railroad, participate in the formation of abolitionist militias, and plan raids that inspired others to take up arms against slavery.
Considering how well he did with his latest period piece about race in the United States, audiences would flock to the theater to see Ryan Coogler’s take on Cloudsplitter.
One Brilliant Flame
One Bright Flame is a perfect choice for a film adaptation where the setting itself can serve as a character. Set in Key West in 1886, it unfolds amid the exploding cigar boom. It features rich characters and a fully lived-in world that feels both real and dreamlike.
The ensemble nature of the main characters lends itself well to a star-studded cast that will put people in their seats. The incredible writing and story can make for a great script, as well. However, it’s absolutely critical that this movie be filmed on location.
The obvious choice for this sprawling, character-centric period thriller is Joe Wright. He has turned classic literature into film several times before. His experience on The Agency and Black Mirror also proves he’s got the chops for thrillers.
The Hungry Blade
There is never a bad time for a spy movie. Whether it is the enduring success of the Bond franchise, 2025’s Black Bag, or the dozens of other mainstream spy thrillers, it’s clear audiences won’t tire of well-told stories about espionage.
Like One Brilliant Flame, The Hungry Blade’s setting would be a huge asset to the film. The story is fun and features an easy-to-root protagonist in British spy Roy Hawkins, as he investigates stolen Nazi art in World War II-era Mexico.
The ingredients that go into a good spy thriller are sleek, stylish, and high-stakes. Although more seasoned directors have made spy stories, Bart Layton’s 2025 crime thriller Crime 101 has all of that and more. Pair him with the right actor to portray Hawkins, and The Hungry Blade will be a sure hit.
