Liane Moriarty hands adaptation of novel to Samantha Strauss

Liane Moriarty, a bestselling author, has handed over the adaptation of her novel "The Last Anniversary" to screenwriter Samantha Strauss. Moriarty, known for her success with "Big Little Lies," said she wanted someone younger and cooler to take the helm. "The Last Anniversary" tells the story of Sophie Honeywell, a 39-year-old journalist who inherits a house on Scribbly Gum Island. As she settles into her new life, she becomes involved in a local mystery surrounding the disappearance of a couple and their baby decades ago. The setting was inspired by Moriarty's visit to Dangar Island, where she was captivated by the community. Samantha Strauss relates to the characters in the story. When she was first approached to adapt the book, she was single and child-free, similar to Sophie. Now in her mid-40s and a mother, Strauss believes the show offers a multi-generational perspective on women's issues. The cast includes Teresa Palmer as Sophie and experienced actresses Angela Punch-McGregor and Miranda Richardson as matriarchs in the community. The show addresses topics like post-natal depression and societal pressures on women. Moriarty describes her involvement with the adaptation as hands-off but admits visiting the set opened her eyes to the actors’ process. She noted that, like writers, actors also observe people closely. While Moriarty’s works often feature mysteries, Strauss believes the real appeal lies in the richly developed characters. They provide warmth and depth, setting Moriarty’s stories apart in the television landscape. "The Last Anniversary" will premiere on Binge on March 27.