At a Glance
- Taylor Zakhar Perez has confirmed he is working on a screen adaptation of a novel by romance author Ali Hazelwood.
- The project, linked to Amazon MHM Studios, is already in post-production.
- Hazelwood’s novel, The Love Hypothesis, stars Lili Reinhart and Tom Bateman in the upcoming film.
**Why it matters: The move brings a popular romance novel into mainstream cinema, promising a fresh romantic-comedy for fans of both the book and the actors involved.
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Introduction
On January 27, 2026, a feature in GQ revealed that Taylor Zakhar Perez is collaborating with a producer to adapt an Ali Hazelwood novel. Although the actor did not disclose the title, the context points to The Love Hypothesis, which is already in post-production.
Actor Announces Adaptation
Perez, best known for Red, White & Royal Blue, said he had been working on the project for the last six months. He added, “I can’t be too specific with it, but I am working with a producer to adapt an Ali Hazelwood novel right now,” and expressed excitement about its potential.
Key Points
- Six-month development period
- Collaboration with a producer
- Actor’s enthusiasm for the project
About the Source Novel
Ali Hazelwood, a prolific romance novelist, is known for steamy contemporary and paranormal stories. The Love Hypothesis follows biology PhD candidate Olive Smith and her professor, Dr. Adam Carlsen, as they navigate a fake relationship that turns real.
Plot Highlights
- Olive’s calculated theories on love are challenged
- A fake relationship sparks genuine attraction
- The novel blends academic rigor with romance
Production Details
The adaptation is being produced by Amazon MHM Studios in partnership with Bisous Pictures, the label of Elizabeth Cantillon. The film is directed by Claire Scanlon and stars Lili Reinhart as Olive and Tom Bateman as Adam.
Production Partners
- Amazon MHM Studios
- Bisous Pictures
- Elizabeth Cantillon’s label
Cast
- Lili Reinhart – Olive Smith
- Tom Bateman – Dr. Adam Carlsen
Director
- Claire Scanlon
Author’s Reaction
After Lili Reinhart’s casting was announced, Hazelwood expressed her excitement: “Honestly, I still can’t believe this is happening,” she said in a statement. She praised the creative team, noting her trust in the production.
Hazelwood’s Statements
- Appreciation for the team’s talent
- Confidence in the adaptation’s quality
- Hope for a fun filmmaking process

Current Status
According to the film’s IMDb page, the adaptation is in post-production. No release date has been set, but the project’s progress suggests a potential release in the coming year.
| Date | Milestone |
|---|---|
| January 27, 2026 | Public announcement of involvement |
| Six months prior | Development began |
| Current | Post-production |
Key Takeaways
- Taylor Zakhar Perez is actively working on adapting The Love Hypothesis.
- The project involves high-profile production companies and a notable director.
- Lili Reinhart and Tom Bateman are attached to the lead roles.
- The adaptation is already in post-production, indicating a near-future release.
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Conclusion
The collaboration between Perez and Hazelwood, backed by Amazon MHM Studios and Bisous Pictures, signals a strong entry into the romance-film market. Fans of the novel and the actors can anticipate a film that blends academic charm with romantic tension, staying true to Hazelwood’s original vision while bringing it to the screen.

