Wattpad has emerged as a vital platform for burgeoning writers, many of whom have seen their original stories transformed into popular movies and television series. The phenomenon of fanfiction has been around since the early days of fandom culture, particularly gaining traction with shows like Star Trek. Various websites, including Wattpad and Archive of Our Own, encourage creative expression through fanfiction and original storytelling, providing a space for writers to refine their craft and build an audience.
As Wattpad continues to gain traction among aspiring authors, a significant number have harnessed the platform to reach new readers. Some have successfully self-published their works or even secured literary agents because of their visibility on Wattpad. Notably, there are numerous authors who have transitioned from the platform to bestseller status or had their books adapted into visual media.
15 The After Movies (2019)
Based On The Novels By Anna Todd
The After movies represent a standout triumph in the realm of Wattpad adaptations. Anna Todd began her journey on Wattpad, publishing a chapter a day for over a year before the saga evolved into a trilogy, which was later released as physical books. Todd’s series eventually expanded to include a prequel novella and additional novels, further captivating readers.
Interestingly, the inspiration for her main character came from Harry Styles, a former One Direction member. While Hardin Scott, the character in the film, differs significantly from Styles, the connection sparked considerable interest in the movie adaptations that were released on Netflix.
Critically, the films have drawn parallels to Fifty Shades of Grey, sharing themes of romantic relationships intertwined with power dynamics. However, they presented a somewhat lighter narrative. Although the films deviated from the source material to streamline the story, they have received more praise from fans of the book series than from critics.
Now, Todd has established her own imprint with Wattpad, showcasing her original novels.
14 The Tearsmith (2024)
Based On The Novel By Erin Doom
The Tearsmith is one of the latest adaptations to emerge from Wattpad. Originally authored by Erin Doom and published on the platform, it was later brought to life by Netflix.
This poignant tale follows two orphans—a teenage girl and boy—who have been adopted by the same family. The girl’s nurturing nature sharply contrasts with the boy’s tumultuous anger. Initially reluctant about sharing a home with him, they eventually form a strong bond, paralleled by a fairy tale about a tearsmith who crystallizes human sorrow into physical form.
Though the film diverges from the original storyline and alters the sequence of some events, it remains a faithful adaptation overall. Audience reactions were mixed, with fans divided; however, it adeptly explores the complexities of childhood trauma and burgeoning romance.
13 He’s Into Her (2021)
Based On The Novel By Maxine Lat Calibuso
The Philippine series He’s Into Her made its debut in 2021 and follows a young girl raised by her grandmother and uncle following her mother’s passing. Surprised by her estranged father’s outreach, she relocates to live with him and attends a new school where she becomes the target of pranks from a fellow student, uncovering genuine feelings amid the chaos.
The adaptation takes considerable liberties with the original plot, resulting in a significantly different narrative for ardent fans of Calibuso’s work. Despite the show appearing to conclude after its second season, Calibuso has continued the narrative in a third season on Wattpad under the name Maxinejiji.
Notably, the series won the Best Drama Miniseries award at the 35th PMPC Star Awards for Television, which honors exceptional programming in the Philippines.
12 Talk Back And You’re Dead (2014)
Based On The Novel By Alesana Marie
Starring beloved Filipino romantic comedy duo James Reid and Nadine Lustre, Talk Back And You’re Dead centers around a woman embroiled in a misunderstanding with a man she believes is cheating her friend. Despite the virality of their feud, feelings grow complicated as layers of gang affiliation and emotional investment intertwine.
However, fans should note that while the film draws from Alesana Marie’s initial two books, it only scratches the surface of her expansive series, which spans seven novels. Plans for a sequel, titled Never Talk Back To A Gangster, were initially discussed but have since fallen through.
11 The Rain In España (2023)
Based On The University Series Novel By Gwy Saludes
The trend of adapting Wattpad stories for the screen has particularly flourished in the Philippines over the past decade. The Rain In España stands out as a largely faithful adaptation, much to the delight of its fans.
This miniseries is based on the initial installment of Gwy Saludes’ University Series on Wattpad, portraying the story of a female architecture student who crosses paths with a male law student. Their bond highlights the unpredictability of relationships, as the narrative revisits their lives a decade after their initial meeting.
A spin-off series titled Safe Skies, Archer, also penned by Saludes, was released in 2023, extending the narrative universe further.
10 Cupid’s Match (2018)
Based On The Story By Lauren Palphreyman
Cupid’s Match is a peculiar case among Wattpad adaptations, as it never progressed beyond the pilot stage. The narrative revolves around a young woman matched with Cupid himself through a modern dating service, merging mythological elements with contemporary romance.
While a pilot episode was filmed for CWSeed, a series order was never finalized, possibly due to internal creative shifts within the CW network during that time. Nevertheless, fans of the story hope for future adaptations, especially as mythological narratives regain popularity in projects like Disney+’s Percy Jackson and the Olympians.
9 The Through My Window Movies (2022)
Based On The Novel Series By Ariana Godoy
Ariana Godoy’s introduction to Wattpad in 2009 paved the way for her rise as a celebrated author. With a release history that captures readers’ hearts, her Hidalgo Trilogy was specifically adapted into a three-film series starting with Through My Window on Netflix.
This romance unfolds through Raquel’s hapless crush on her neighbor, leading her to discover unexpected feelings. Although the movie did not achieve critical acclaim, it resonated with audiences captivated by the adaptation. Particularly popular among Spanish-speaking audiences, the trilogy has been successfully produced entirely in Spanish.
Furthermore, Godoy’s other novel, Sigue Mi Voz, is also slated for adaptation, ensuring her presence in the film world expands further.
8 Light As A Feather (2018)
Based On The Story By Zoe Aarsen
Adapted by Hulu, Light As A Feather diverges from the typical Wattpad romance narrative, exploring the mystery genre instead. The series comprises two seasons with a total of 26 episodes and features a talented ensemble, including Liana Liberato and Jordan Rodrigues.
The plot follows a group of friends who play a supernatural board game, which foretells their deaths. As the events unfold with chilling precision, one member seeks to uncover the truth. This gripping narrative earned much acclaim, receiving nominations for 10 Daytime Emmy Awards during its run.
7 Perfect Addiction (2023)
Based On The Story By Claudia Tan
Marking a shift toward new adult fiction, Claudia Tan’s Perfect Addiction brings forth a tale suited for those stepping into adulthood. The novel, part of a trilogy with over 160 million views on Wattpad, showcases a woman’s personal journey following her discovery of her boyfriend’s infidelity with her sister.
This narrative unfolds as she teams up with a rival boxer to navigate her heartbreak, leading to unexpected romantic developments.
Tan’s work has garnered accolades, including the People’s Choice Award at Wattpad’s Watty Awards, cementing her status as a standout writer.
6 Turn On (2021)
Based On The Story By Tiara Wales
Turn On, an Indonesian adaptation available on the streaming platform Vidio, is part of Wattpad’s initiative to produce several adaptations tailored for Asian audiences. This romantic drama aired across two seasons with a total of 16 episodes, making it an easy binge-watch.
The series revolves around the complex relationship between a wealthy executive and a struggling employee, starting with a transactional basis that evolves into deeper feelings.
5 Float (2023)
Based On The Novel By Kate Marchant
Kate Marchant, who penned Float as a teenager on Wattpad, has seen her work blossom from a serialized online tale to a feature film. The story follows a woman whose meticulously planned life takes an unexpected detour after a near-drowning incident leads her to develop feelings for her rescuer, a lifeguard.
Despite being likened to a Hallmark movie due to some of its dialogue, significant changes were made for the film adaptation. The protagonist is portrayed by Korean-Canadian actress Andrea Bang, a change that reflects the Asian perspective of the director. This decision allowed for a richer narrative experience and expanded representation in film.
4 Sidelined: The QB And Me (2024)
Based On The Story By Tay Marley
As one of Tubi’s pioneering original films, Sidelined: The QB And Me marks the feature debut of TikTok star Noah Beck. The adaptation is based on a widely-read Wattpad story that has garnered over 30 million reads.
The plot centers on a young woman striving for a dance scholarship at her deceased mother’s alma mater while navigating a burgeoning relationship with the star quarterback of the local high school.
With a blend of stereotypical teen drama elements and a touch of experience from seasoned actor James Van Der Beek, who plays the quarterback’s father, this film aims to resonate with both youthful viewers and nostalgic fans.
3 Boot Camp (2024)
Based On The Story By Gina Musa
Gina Musa makes her debut novel with Boot Camp, which began as her Wattpad creation. Following its 2023 publication, the movie adaptation sparked interest and anticipation. The story follows a girl who, feeling overshadowed by an athletic family, enrolls in a fitness camp, leading her on a journey of self-discovery and unexpected romance with her trainer.
In contrast to conventional makeover stories, Boot Camp emphasizes empowerment and self-esteem. The narrative effectively illustrates a young woman reclaiming her self-worth as she navigates personal growth alongside her love story. The review from Fangirlish articulately summarizes this theme:
What Boot Camp does is take that insecure, clumsy girl, who tries to take up as little space as possible and hates being the center of attention, and show her how much she is worth, making her discover her own power and that, that is invaluable.
2 The Kissing Booth Trilogy (2018)
Based On The Stories By Beth Reekles
Though only the first Kissing Booth novel originated on Wattpad, the adaptation became synonymous with the platform’s storytelling success. Beth Reekles crafted this popular series at a young age, securing her place in Wattpad history as the winner of the Most Popular Teen Fiction Award in 2011.
The plot centers on a teen girl who navigates the complications of a romance with her best friend’s older brother, weaving in familiar teenage tropes that resonate widely with the audience.
1 My Life With The Walter Boys (2023)
Based On The Novel By Ali Novak
My Life With The Walter Boys, published by Ali Novak on Wattpad at just 15 years old, transitioned to a physical novel in 2014. Having amassed a large following, Novak communicated with fans through occasional updates due to the overwhelming response.
The story explores the life of a girl suddenly living with twelve boys after being taken in by her mother’s best friend following her mother’s death. The Netflix adaptation reduced the number of brothers to seven for convenience. Its popularity has led to a second season announcement for 2025.
Additionally, Novak revealed that a sequel to her original book is also scheduled for release in 2025.
Future Wattpad Adaptations
As the landscape of digital storytelling continues to evolve, Wattpad has caught the attention of traditional publishing houses and film studios alike. Currently, over 100 Wattpad adaptations are in various developmental phases, according to the platform itself. While many remain undisclosed, several projects have been officially announced.
For instance, two novels are slated for adaptation into both English and Italian versions, including The Locker Exchange by Ann Rae, a romantic mystery involving a high school girl deciphering her secret admirer while uncovering an ongoing mystery about a missing student. Another adaptation, Love Me, Love Me by Stefania S., will focus on the intricacies of a love triangle.
Additionally, How To Lose Weight And Survive The Apocalypse by Kate J. Squires is in the pipeline to become a film in Australia, blending romance with a disaster narrative. At the same time, Death Is My BFF by Katarina E. Tonks is being developed as a television series following a teenager who confronts Death himself.
With such an expansive library, audiences can anticipate numerous exciting Wattpad movie and TV adaptations in the foreseeable future.
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