Classic YA Survival Novel "Hatchet" Getting Netflix Film Adaptation
By Elijah Gonzalez | Published Oct 12, 2026, 4:34 PM EDT
A beloved young adult (YA) survival novel, Hatchet, is officially getting a Netflix film adaptation. The news was reported by Variety, with the project being written and directed by Derek Cianfrance, known for his critically acclaimed films like Blue Valentine, The Place Beyond the Pines, and Roofman.
If you're of a certain age, there's a good chance Hatchet traumatized you at some point during elementary school. The novel, published in 1987 by Gary Paulsen, follows 13-year-old Brian Robeson after he survives a plane crash and must learn to fend for himself in the Canadian wilderness. He faces hunger, extreme weather conditions, and isolation while navigating his complicated relationship with his divorced parents.
According to Variety, Netflix has secured the rights to adapt the book, partnering with Paulsen's estate, which had previously blocked adaptations. Andrew Mittman of 1.21 will produce the film, having recently contributed to Netflix's Wednesday.
The adaptation follows several recent survival films on the streaming service, such as Apex and Thrash, both of which debuted with over 36 million views this year.
Hatchet won the Newbery Honor Award in 1988 for its significant contribution to children's literature.