EXCLUSIVE: Red Planet Pictures, a unit of Fremantle, has successfully acquired the rights to adapt It’s Not What You Think, the soon-to-be-released novel by well-known author Clare Mackintosh. The adaptation will be handled by Kam Odedra, known for his work on Hijack, Lupin, and the recent All Her Fault.
Sources indicate that there was fierce competition for the rights, with Mackintosh’s novels being highly sought after following her seven previous bestsellers in the Sunday Times. Her latest work is set to be published by HarperFiction in March.
Former police officer and now successful author, Mackintosh has a strong following, including famed author Lee Child. Her upcoming novel introduces readers to Nadeeka Prasanna and Detective Chief Inspector Lauren Caldwell, who come together under tragic circumstances after Nadeeka’s partner, Jamie, is found murdered at their home. The book, one of the most awaited titles of 2026, entices with a synopsis that promises a thrilling chase full of dark and mysterious twists, where every character harbors secrets, but only one holds the truth.
Mackintosh expressed excitement about the adaptation, stating, “It’s Not What You Think is my most ambitious thriller yet. The enthusiasm and vision of Red Planet Pictures make them an ideal partner, and I am thrilled to have Kam Odedra bring this story to television.”
The acquisition was the result of a spirited bidding war, with Red Planet emerging victorious. The negotiation for the adaptation rights was managed by Alex Jones from Red Planet, a production company noted for its UK-based dramas like Death In Paradise and Sanditon.
Belinda Campbell, Co-CEO of Red Planet, praised Clare’s mastery in crafting engaging thrillers. “Clare is a master storyteller, known for her compelling narratives filled with unexpected twists. It’s Not What You Think continues this tradition, and we’re confident that Kam Odedra is exceptionally suited to translate this gripping story onto the screen.”
This acquisition occurs during a particularly active period for Red Planet. The company is preparing to adapt ‘Death at the White Hart’, the first novel by Broadchurch creator Chris Chibnall, in a co-production with Chibnall’s Imaginary Friends for ITV. Another secretive drama project is also in the pipeline for ITV, set to begin production in 2026.
Representation for Mackintosh is handled by Camilla Young and Sheila Crowley at Curtis Brown.
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