Hulu Developing Series Adaptation of 'The Kid Detective' Movie

Hulu is developing a television series adaptation of the 2020 film "The Kid Detective," with exclusive information obtained by Variety. Evan Morgan, who both wrote and directed the original movie, is attached to the new project as an executive producer. Alex Berger is set to write and executive produce the series. Rachel Kaplan of Abescon Entertainment will also serve as an executive producer, alongside Jonathan Bronfman and Will [Last Name Missing].

"The Kid Detective" is a Canadian comedy-drama film released in 2020. The movie stars Adam Brody as Abe Applebaum, a once-celebrated child detective who, as an adult, struggles with alcoholism and a mundane life. His career as a prodigy detective ends abruptly after a case involving his crush goes tragically wrong. Years later, Abe is hired by a client to investigate the murder of her boyfriend, pulling him back into the world of detective work and forcing him to confront his past failures and the lingering trauma. The film was noted for its blend of dark humor and poignant exploration of childhood disillusionment.

The development of a series adaptation indicates a growing interest in translating successful independent films into longer-form television narratives. This trend allows for deeper character development and expanded plotlines that may not have been feasible within the constraints of a feature film. The involvement of Evan Morgan, the original creator, suggests a commitment to maintaining the tone and thematic integrity of the source material. His experience in both writing and directing the film provides a unique perspective for translating the story to a new format.

Hulu, owned by The Walt Disney Company, has been actively expanding its content library with a focus on original programming across various genres. The platform has seen success with adaptations and genre-bending stories, making it a potentially suitable home for a series that combines elements of mystery, comedy, and drama. The addition of "The Kid Detective" series would further diversify Hulu's offerings, appealing to audiences who appreciate character-driven narratives with a touch of noir and dark humor. The specific release date and further casting details for the series have not yet been announced.