John Steinback's classic novel "East of Eden" is getting another screen adaptation [1] now that Netflix [2] landed the rights to develop the book into a series, and the project is already shaping up to be exciting.
Zoe Kazan [3] is set to write the screenplay for the series, with Florence Pugh [4] joining the project in a starring role and boarding the creative team as a co-producer. The popular source material, originally published in 1952, has previously been adapted twice for screen — first, the 1955 James Dean-led feature film with Zoe's grandfather, Elia Kazan, at the helm, and then the 1981 ABC miniseries. [5]
While the new series is still in early development, the anticipation surrounding the new version is buzzing already. Ahead, we've gathered everything we know about the modern reworking of "East Of Eden" so far.
What Is “East of Eden” About?
Steinback's period drama follows the multigenerational intertwined stories of the Hamilton and Trask families throughout the Civil War and World War I, all while exploring themes of identity, love, and immigration. While the book is not autobiographical, Steinbeck did draw from his childhood experiences while writing the book. Some of his relatives even appear as minor characters in the book.
The original 1955 movie adaptation of the book only partially adapted the novel's storyline, and it remains to be seen how much the Netflix series will follow the original story.
"East of Eden" Cast
On June 21, Deadline reported [6] that the miniseries has locked Pugh to play the story's main antagonist Cathy Ames. Speaking with the outlet, Kazan opened up about what makes Pugh the perfect choice to bring Ames's layered character to life. "I fell in love with 'East of Eden' when I first read it in my teens. Since then, adapting Steinbeck's novel — the great, sprawling, three-generational entirety of it — has been my dream," the "Wildlife" writer said. "More than anything, I have wanted to give full expression to the novel's astonishing, singular antiheroine, Cathy Ames. Florence Pugh is our dream Cathy; I can't imagine a more thrilling actor to bring this character to life."
The Oscar-nominated "Midsommar" actress previously injected much-needed dimension into the complex March sister, Amy, in Greta Gerwig's "Little Women," making her a fitting candidate for the upcoming miniseries.
So far, only Pugh has been confirmed as a cast member for the project. More details will follow as the miniseries rolls into the production phase.
"East of Eden" Premiere Date
Netflix has not yet revealed the premiere date for "East of Eden." Considering the filming hasn't yet begun, viewers shouldn't expect the miniseries to arrive anytime before 2023.
How Many Episodes Will “East of Eden” Have?
Netflix hasn't unveiled the total number of episodes "East of Eden" will be comprised of.
Is There a “East of Eden” Trailer?
There's no teaser for the "East of Eden" series yet.