Netflix, Derek Cianfrance Adapting Gary Paulsen's Book
Variety • • entertainment
Key Points:
- Netflix is developing a film adaptation of Gary Paulsen’s 1987 young adult survival novel "Hatchet," with Derek Cianfrance set to write and direct.
- The story centers on 13-year-old Brian Robeson, stranded alone in the Canadian wilderness after a plane crash, and the film is produced in partnership with Paulsen’s estate.
- Andrew Mittman, producer of Netflix’s "Wednesday," is producing the film through his company 1.21, with executive producers including members of Paulsen’s family and estate representatives.
- The project marks the first major adaptation of "Hatchet" since the 1990 TV movie "A Cry in the Wild," and aligns with Netflix’s strategy to expand its survival thriller offerings following recent hits like "Apex" and "Thrash."
- Paulsen’s novel, a Newbery Medal winner, is part of a five-book series that has remained popular since its publication, and the estate played a key role in selecting Cianfrance to lead the film after years of holding the rights.
