Underrated Adaptations You Shouldn't Miss From Book to Screen

In the world of film and television, book-to-screen adaptations are everywhere. From bestsellers like Harry Potter and The Hunger Games to modern epics like Game of Thrones, many adaptations become global sensations. But for every blockbuster, there are a handful of hidden gems — underrated adaptations that may not have received the spotlight, but still deliver compelling stories, strong performances, and thoughtful interpretations of their source material.

Here are some underrated book-to-screen adaptations you shouldn’t miss.

1. Never Let Me Go (2010)

Based on the novel by Kazuo Ishiguro

Quiet, haunting, and beautifully acted, Never Let Me Go is a dystopian drama that didn’t get the recognition it deserved. The film stars Carey Mulligan, Andrew Garfield, and Keira Knightley as children raised in a mysterious boarding school who gradually learn the tragic purpose of their existence. The novel’s emotional depth and existential questions are faithfully translated on screen, offering a moving and thought-provoking viewing experience.

2. The Secret Scripture (2016)

Based on the novel by Sebastian Barry

This Irish drama tells the story of Rose McNulty, a woman confined in a mental institution for decades, who recounts her life story through her hidden journal. With powerful performances from Rooney Mara and Vanessa Redgrave, The Secret Scripture explores themes of memory, love, and injustice. Though it flew under the radar, it remains a beautifully crafted adaptation worth discovering.

3. The Painted Veil (2006)

Based on the novel by W. Somerset Maugham

Set in 1920s China, this romantic drama follows a troubled couple—played by Naomi Watts and Edward Norton—who travel to a remote village during a cholera outbreak. The film captures the novel’s emotional complexity and period detail with elegance. Its exploration of forgiveness, growth, and love in unlikely circumstances makes it a deeply underrated cinematic gem.

4. A Monster Calls (2016)

Based on the novel by Patrick Ness

Blending fantasy, grief, and childhood imagination, A Monster Calls tells the story of a young boy coping with his mother’s terminal illness. The story is guided by a towering tree monster (voiced by Liam Neeson) who shares tales that help the boy process pain and loss. While praised by critics, the film didn’t perform well at the box office. Nevertheless, it remains one of the most emotionally impactful adaptations of recent years.

5. The Book Thief (2013)

Based on the novel by Markus Zusak

Despite its international bestseller status, The Book Thief film adaptation didn’t receive as much acclaim as expected. However, it stays largely true to the novel and delivers a touching story about a young girl’s love for reading during Nazi Germany. Geoffrey Rush and Emily Watson shine in supporting roles, and the narration by Death adds a poetic layer to the film’s somber beauty.

Final Thoughts

While not every adaptation becomes a cultural phenomenon, many of the quieter, lesser-known films offer just as much heart, artistry, and narrative depth. These underrated adaptations deserve more attention — not just from fans of the original books, but from anyone who appreciates thoughtful storytelling.

So next time you're looking for something meaningful to watch, skip the blockbusters — and dive into one of these hidden treasures.