The highly anticipated adaptation Stephen King fans have been waiting for is almost here. His 2019 sci-fi horror novel The Institute is being brought to life as an eight-episode television series. The book follows 12-year-old Luke Ellis, a telepathically gifted boy who wakes up in a room that looks just like his — only it isn’t. And he’s not alone. There are others like him. But why are they there? Will they ever find out when they’re being held and can they escape whatever force is keeping them captive?
In classic King fashion, nothing is ever quite what it seems, and it’ll be fascinating to see how The Institute makes the leap from page to screen. Originally set to be adapted by Spyglass in 2019, the project changed hands after five years and was picked up by MGM+ in 2024, now under a revised production team led by Jack Bender and Ben Cavell. The cast brings together an intriguing ensemble which includes Ben Barnes as Tim Jamieson, Mary-Louise Parker as Ms. Sigsby, and newcomer Joe Freeman as Luke Ellis.
The Journey of Stephen King’s ‘The Institute’ From Page to Screen
Image Credit: Warner Bros. Pictures
A notable addition to King’s extensive body of work, The Institute was published in 2019. Upon its release, the sci-fi horror received positive reviews from literary critics, with many praising the author’s ability to grab and sustain readership with its complex narrative and gripping themes of survival. Others indicate that it is an interesting selection, especially for readers looking for something classic from an old premise. Given this level of success, it is not surprising that the novel is getting a TV adaptation.
Over the years, Stephen King’s works have always been adapted for TV and film. With titles such as Under the Dome, Mr. Mercedes, and The Shawshank Redemption making waves, The Institute is no exception. Interestingly, on the the book was released, Spyglass acquired TV rights and brought in David E. Kelley and Bender to work on a limited release. It was the first of its kind for the company. However, the company didn’t follow through on the deal. In June 2024, MGM+ ordered an eight-episode series to be made, retaining Bender as director/executive producer and bringing in Ben Cavell as creator/executive producer. Stephen King also joined the production crew as an executive producer.
What to Expect From the Upcoming Adaptation of ‘The Institute’
Image Credit: MGM+
With the production crew set, the adaptation is finally coming to reality on the small screen, and lovers of Stephen King’s works are eagerly waiting. The plot of the upcoming series will follow the premise of the novel closely, highlighting the kidnapping of psychic children by a shadowy organization whose aim is to weaponize and use them. At the center of the story is a young boy, Luke Ellis, with mind-reading and bending abilities. Luke wakes up in a strange house after his parents are murdered and meets other children like him.
In the novel, the story unfolds in suburban Minneapolis and the woods of Maine. Although it is unclear if the series will maintain this, production began in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, around August and November 2024. In addition, a first-look image was released in December 2024 by MGM+ with a release date set for 2025. The episodes will be released every week “to encourage appointment viewing,” says studio executive Michael Wright.
Meet the Cast Bringing Stephen King’s ‘The Institute’ to Life
Image Credit: MGM+
The cast members announced to bring Stephen King’s story to life are nothing short of impressive. Ben Barnes will play Tim Jamieson, a retired police officer, Mary-Louise Parker stars as Ms. Sigsby, the director of the Institute, and Joe Freeman will portray the protagonist, Luke Ellis. Born in 2006, Freeman will be about 19 when the series airs — notably older than the 12-year-old character he’s bringing to life from the books. Bender explained that they brought in an older actor to avoid putting a child through the intense experiences portrayed in the story, noting there’s a fine line they didn’t want to cross.
Apart from the main characters, a few others have been added, including Simon Miller as Kalisha, Jason Diaz as Tony, Hannah Galway as Wendy, Julian Richings as Stackhouse, Dan Beirne as Drew, Jordan Alexander as Kate, and Robert Joy as Hendricks. Others include Fionn Laird as Nick, Arlen So as George, Birva Pandya as Iris, and Viggo Hanvelt as Avery Dixon. Additional casting decisions will depend on the show’s creative direction and production needs. With an impressive cast already in tow, it will certainly be interesting to see how King’s acclaimed story plays out on the small screen. Stephen King’s The Institute is set to premiere on MGM+ on July 13.
