Alex Aster approached writing Starside differently from her previous works. The bestselling author developed the novel quietly over several years, often keeping it hidden even from her agent. This secrecy was intentional, as she wanted the project to remain a deeply personal endeavor rather than one crafted for a broad audience.
Initially, Starside was created solely for Aster herself, which adds a unique dimension to the current excitement surrounding the book. What began as a private project has now sparked conversations about a screen adaptation.
In a significant development, discussions are underway about adapting Starside for television rather than film. Aster believes the story’s expansive scope—featuring multiple worlds, intricate relationships, and a central revenge-driven plot—would be better suited to a series format, allowing for a fuller exploration than a single movie could provide. With her previous novels Lightlark and Summer in the City already in development, the prospect of Starside following suit seems increasingly plausible.
What has notably accelerated interest in adaptation talks is the casting buzz. While Aster prefers a fresh face to portray Aris, the novel’s protagonist, one actor has emerged as a clear favorite for the role of Harlan Raker, the story’s brooding knight: Jacob Elordi. This suggestion originated from her agent, and Aster immediately recognized Elordi’s suitability, citing his intensity and commanding presence as a perfect match for the character.
The novel centers on Aris, an orphan navigating perilous worlds driven by loss and a quest for revenge. Unlike many young adult protagonists, Aris is not on a journey of self-discovery but is instead a fully realized character confronting the aftermath of her past. This mature, layered portrayal distinguishes Starside from Aster’s earlier books and contributes to why she describes it as both her most personal and challenging work.
Even without an official adaptation announcement, momentum is building as fans and readers begin to envision the story on screen. Aster’s growing reputation, combined with the novel’s epic scale and compelling casting possibilities, has pushed the conversation well beyond the book itself.
For now, the adaptation remains speculative, but Starside is no longer just a private project. It is evolving into a highly anticipated story with potential for a major screen presence.
