Cult favorite graphic novel The Upturned Stone, written and illustrated by acclaimed comics artist Scott Hampton, is officially being developed for a film adaptation, bringing the eerie, emotionally resonant story to a wider audience for the first time.
Originally published in 1993 and building on Hampton’s serialized work in Heavy Metal, The Upturned Stone has long been celebrated for its quiet, character-driven narrative and haunting exploration of memory, guilt, and the mysteries that lie beneath the surface of small-town America. The story follows a group of adolescent friends who, after discovering an unusual pumpkin growing atop a grave, experience shared visions that force them to confront something tragic and long buried.
Producers describe the adaptation as a “literary mystery with emotional depth,” aiming to preserve the tone and psychological richness that made the graphic novel stand out. The project is being positioned as a character-first thriller, where atmosphere and human stakes take precedence over conventional genre shocks. With the enduring popularity of nostalgic coming-of-age stories, the adaptation is expected to appeal to fans of both literary drama and supernatural suspense.
“The way The Upturned Stone sees childhood — and what it holds onto — is unforgettable,” said one of the film’s producers. “Our goal is to honor Scott Hampton’s artistic vision while translating these younger characters’ emotional journeys into a cinematic experience that stays with audiences long after the credits roll.”
Casting announcements have not yet been made, but early notes suggest the production is seeking young talent to portray the core group of boys at the story’s heart, along with a compelling actor to embody the mysterious antagonist whose presence looms over the narrative.
Fans of the original have responded with excitement across social media and genre forums, praising the announcement and speculating on how the adaptation will handle the graphic novel’s subtle blend of psychological tension and melancholic reflection.
With pre-production underway, the adaptation of The Upturned Stone joins a broader trend of graphic novels crossing into film and television, joining high-profile adaptations that have brought nuanced illustrated stories to mainstream audiences.
