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Introduction
Series adaptations have become one of the most powerful storytelling formats in the entertainment industry, turning beloved books, games, and formats into binge-worthy TV shows. With global demand for high-quality content rising, adapting existing IPs into series not only brings built-in audiences but also creates fresh, long-form narratives. But how does the process of series adaptation work, and why is it such a critical part of today’s content landscape?
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn:
- What a series adaptation is and why it’s booming
- How books, video games, and entertainment formats are adapted into series
- Key steps and players involved in the adaptation process
- Challenges and opportunities in bringing adaptations to life
- How Vitrina helps production companies, streamers, and distributors discover adaptation opportunities and partners
Whether you’re a production house, distributor, or content creator, understanding the business of series adaptations is essential to staying competitive in today’s market.
Curious how Vitrina can help you? Try it out today!
Trusted by global entertainment leaders to grow business, acquire high-demand content, promote projects and services, and track every Film + TV production worldwide
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Discover the Next Big Adaptation Project
What is a Series Adaptation?
A series adaptation is the process of transforming an existing intellectual property (IP) such as a book, video game, or entertainment format into a multi-episode TV series. Unlike film adaptations, series adaptations offer more room for character development, world-building, and extended storytelling.
Why Series Adaptations are Booming
With the rise of streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+, the demand for serialized content has skyrocketed. Some key reasons for the boom include:
- Built-in fanbase from existing IPs
- Long-form storytelling that fits binge-watching patterns
- International appeal with cross-market adaptations
- Lower risk compared to original concepts
Recent hits like The Last of Us (game adaptation) and The Night Manager (book adaptation) have proven the global success of this format.
Adapting Books into TV Series
Books have long been a rich source of adaptations, offering established characters and narratives. The process involves:
- Rights Acquisition – Securing the adaptation rights from authors or publishers
- Development – Creating the screenplay, expanding the plot
- Packaging – Attaching showrunners, producers, and actors
- Financing & Production – Pitching to networks or streamers for greenlighting
Notable Examples: The Witcher, Bridgerton, Game of Thrones
Connect with Top Adaptation Partners
Game-to-Series Adaptations
Video games are now a goldmine for series adaptations, offering immersive worlds and large fanbases. However, adapting games poses unique challenges like balancing action with narrative depth.
Successful Examples:
- The Last of Us (HBO)
- Arcane (Netflix)
- Halo (Paramount+)
Format Adaptations in TV
Format adaptations involve localizing a successful TV show from one country to another, often in reality TV, game shows, or drama series.
Popular examples include:
- The Office (UK to US)
- Big Brother
- The Masked Singer
Key Players in Series Adaptations
The series adaptation process involves multiple stakeholders:
- Authors & IP Holders
- Production Companies
- Showrunners & Writers
- Studios & Networks
- Distributors
- Financiers
Challenges in Series Adaptations
Despite their popularity, series adaptations face several challenges:
- Securing rights for popular IPs
- Balancing fan expectations with creative freedom
- Cross-market appeal and cultural localization
- Long development timelines
How Vitrina Helps with Series Adaptations
Vitrina makes the complex process of series adaptations easier by:
- Discovering available IPs for adaptation across global markets
- Connecting with top production houses, financiers, and distributors
- Identifying talent and crew for packaging projects
- Tracking competitor adaptation projects through the Vitrina Global Film+TV Projects Tracker
- Providing actionable insights on trending genres and territories
Whether you’re looking for your next adaptation project or seeking co-production partners, Vitrina streamlines your entire adaptation journey.
Trusted by Execs and Leaders From
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PRG
Hyphenate Media
Sony TV
Premier Digital
Netflix
Getty
Digital Film Tree
Amagi
William Morris Endeavor (WME) Entertainment
Endeavor Group
Warner Bros. Discovery
Toonz Media Group
Sony Pictures
SBT Brazil
Special Broadcasting Service (SBS)
Paramount
DLE Animation Japan
Google TV
Friday Filmworks
Key Takeaways
- Series adaptations are a booming trend across books, games, and formats.
- They offer long-form storytelling and lower creative risk.
- Successful adaptations require the right mix of creative vision and market insights.
- Vitrina helps discover, connect, and track adaptation projects globally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Vitrina helps members discover adaptation-ready IPs, connect with production houses, and track competitor adaptation projects globally.
Fantasy, crime, and video game adaptations are currently in high demand.
Vitrina’s platform connects you with top production companies across 100+ countries.
