Paramount is gearing up to launch what could be its next major fantasy franchise, with Children of Blood and Bone officially set to hit theaters on January 15, 2027. The adaptation of Tomi Adeyemi's acclaimed young adult novel has been in development for years, and now the wait is almost over—just ten weeks remain until audiences can step into the magical Kingdom of Orïsha.
The film stars Thuso Mbedu as Zélie Adebola, a young woman on a quest to restore magic to her land after it was brutally suppressed by a tyrannical monarchy. Armed with powers granted by the gods, Zélie must fight against an oppressive regime and reclaim what was stolen from her people. Along the way, she gains unexpected allies: Princess Amari and Prince Inan, the king's own children, who join her cause to forge a better future.
Directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood, who previously teamed with Mbedu on The Woman King, the movie boasts an impressive ensemble cast. Viola Davis, Amandla Stenberg, Damson Idris, Tosin Cole, Cynthia Erivo, Lashana Lynch, Zackary Momoh, Richard Mofe-Damijo, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Regina King, and Idris Elba all feature prominently. Prince-Bythewood also co-wrote the screenplay alongside Adeyemi, ensuring the adaptation stays true to the source material.
The release of Children of Blood and Bone comes at a time when fantasy is dominating the big screen. Netflix's Narnia: The Magician's Nephew, directed by Greta Gerwig, arrives in theaters on February 12, 2027, marking the first C.S. Lewis adaptation in over 15 years. Later that year, Andy Serkis will return to Middle-earth with The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum, featuring Ian McKellen, Kate Winslet, Lee Pace, and Elijah Wood. Sony's The Legend of Zelda is also on the horizon, hitting theaters on April 30 with Benjamin Evan Ainsworth and Bo Bragason as Link and Zelda.
For Paramount, Children of Blood and Bone represents a major bet on a new fantasy universe. The studio has been developing the project since Fox 2000 first optioned the book in 2017, and the film's release will finally bring Adeyemi's rich world to life. With a story that blends magic, rebellion, and social commentary, it's poised to resonate with audiences looking for more than just epic battles.
If you're hungry for more fantasy recommendations while you wait, check out our list of fantasy novels that outshine Fourth Wing or explore epic fantasies beyond Tolkien. For those who prefer the small screen, Prime Video's brutal new western is also worth a look.
With its star-studded cast, acclaimed director, and a beloved source novel, Children of Blood and Bone is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated fantasy releases of 2027. Mark your calendars for January 15.
