Netflix To Adapt 'The Selection' Novel

Saudi Arabian filmmaker Haifaa Al-Mansour has been roped in to direct Netflix's upcoming film, The Selection based on the first entry in Kiera Cass’ popular book series.

Published in 2012, the book is set in a dystopian future where 35 girls are selected to move to a royal palace and compete for a prince’s heart. America Singer is from the society’s lower class and chosen as one of Prince Maxon’s suitors, but she’s torn between the life and love she left behind. Over time, she grows strong feelings for the Prince.

The Selection is the first in a five-book series and has sold more than 11 million copies around the world.

“We are thrilled to be working with Netflix and bringing these beloved books to life for the extraordinarily loyal and passionate fan base,” producer Denise Di Novi said. “The author Kiera Cass has created a spellbinding fantasy whose message of empowerment and authenticity is more relevant today than ever.”

“I’m thrilled to be working with the brilliant Haifaa Al-Mansour and our friends at Netflix on this special film,” Shahbazian said. “Having worked on some very high profile book adaptations, I’ve never before seen the fervor and passion that ‘The Selection’ fans have for the adaptation of Kiera Cass’ book series to film.”