Hell Followed With Us, a dark-fantasy young adult (YA) novel by Andrew Joseph White, is being adapted into an animated feature film. Trustbridge Entertainment, the production company behind the project, recently acquired the rights to the novel. Notably, Lilly Wachowski, one half of the iconic directing duo behind The Matrix, is set to co-produce the film, adding significant creative weight to the novel’s adaptation.

Originally published in 2022 by Peachtree Teen, Hell Followed With Us tells the story of Benji, a 16-year-old trans boy who escapes from a religious cult that played a key role in triggering Armageddon. The cult has also infected Benji with a bioweapon, transforming him into a monstrous force with the potential to destroy humanity.

Fleeing from his past, Benji encounters a group of queer teens and, with the help of his new friend Nick, begins to unravel the dark power hidden within him. The novel has been widely praised for its raw and authentic representation of trans and autistic characters, as well as its gripping, suspenseful narrative.

Lilly Wachowski is co-producing the novel’s adaptation alongside Sarah Marie Flores, an editor who will be making her debut in full-length feature production. The adaptation’s script is being crafted by screenwriters Alvaro Rodriguez and Warren Wagner, ensuring the film’s narrative is in the hands of experienced creators. Author Andrew Joseph White is actively consulting on the production, providing valuable insight to ensure the story’s authenticity is maintained throughout the transition from book to screen.

Bob Higgins, president of Trustbridge Entertainment, emphasized the importance of preserving the personal and emotional core of Benji’s journey. In a statement to Deadline, Higgins said, “The gut-wrenchingly honest personal journey that is the heart of this story requires filmmakers with an authentic point of view to translate, and that is exactly what we’ve got with this dream team of producers and writers,”

The film adaptation of Hell Followed With Us is generating excitement, particularly with the involvement of creators known for pushing boundaries and exploring complex and personable themes. Fans of the novel and new audiences alike can expect a powerful, visually striking film that remains faithful to the bold spirit of the original story.