Netflix is developing a film based on Gary Paulsen’s novel Hatchet. Derek Cianfrance, known for directing Blue Valentine, will write and direct the adaptation. The project brings Paulsen’s acclaimed story to the screen, revisiting a coming-of-age tale about survival and resilience.
According to Variety, the film will adapt the 1987 novel, which follows 13-year-old Brian Robeson after a plane crash leaves him stranded in the Canadian wilderness. Armed with only a hatchet, he must find food, build shelter, and survive the harsh conditions alone. As he faces one challenge after another, Brian learns to trust his instincts and adapt to his surroundings.
Gary Paulsen’s Hatchet has a long history of survival storytelling
Hatchet became one of Paulsen’s best-known books, known for its realistic portrayal of wilderness survival. Rather than focusing on extraordinary adventures, the novel shows Brian’s practical struggles and emotional growth. Its themes of independence, perseverance, and self-discovery have helped it remain popular with young readers.
Paulsen continued Brian’s story in four follow-up novels, including The River, Brian’s Winter, Brian’s Return, and Brian’s Hunt. Each book explores another stage of Brian’s journey, highlighting how his wilderness experiences continue to influence him. The series further established the character as a memorable figure in young adult survival fiction.
The novel previously received a screen adaptation in the 1990 television film A Cry in the Wild, starring Jared Rushton as Brian. Netflix’s upcoming version will offer a new interpretation of the survival story for contemporary audiences.
Andrew Mittman will produce the film through his company, 1.21, with Kai Dolbashian as the executive producer. Jennifer Flannery and Sandy Weinberg, representatives of Paulsen’s estate, will also executive produce alongside Ruth Wright Paulsen and James Wright Paulsen. Cianfrance’s involvement adds an experienced filmmaker to the adaptation. Alongside Blue Valentine, his directing credits include The Place Beyond the Pines and The Light Between Oceans.
Netflix has not announced the cast, production schedule, or release date for Hatchet.