Adele Makes Film Debut in Cry to Heaven, A Riveting Tale of 18th-Century Italy

Adele is set to make her feature-film acting debut in the upcoming historical drama Cry to Heaven. Directed and written by Tom Ford, the film is based on Anne Rice’s novel of the same name. Currently in pre-production, the movie targets a theatrical release in fall 2026. The ensemble cast includes Nicholas Hoult, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Colin Firth, Paul Bettany, Mark Strong, Thandiwe Newton, and Hunter Schafer. Filming is expected to start in London and Rome in mid-January 2026.

Who: Adele headlines the cast alongside Tom Ford’s returning collaborators.
What: Film adaptation of Cry to Heaven, set in 18th-century Italy, focusing on a Venetian nobleman and a castrato navigating the opera world.
When: Pre-production is underway as of November 2025, with filming beginning January 2026; fall 2026 release planned.
Where: Filming locations include London and Rome.
Why: Adele transitions from music to acting; the story aligns with Ford’s thematic style of identity, art, and music.
How: Production initiated by Tom Ford’s company, with ensemble casting and screenplay adaptation underway.

Cast & Crew Details

The film features Adele alongside Nicholas Hoult, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Colin Firth, Paul Bettany, Mark Strong, Thandiwe Newton, and Hunter Schafer. Tom Ford, known for A Single Man and Nocturnal Animals, directs, writes, and produces. Adele’s specific role has not been disclosed, but the story centers on the Venetian nobleman and castrato.

Industry & Audience Impact

Adele’s transition to acting broadens her artistic portfolio and may impact future cross-industry collaborations. For Tom Ford, Cry to Heaven marks a high-profile return to filmmaking. The project’s musical and operatic themes create synergy with Adele’s vocal background. Industry observers anticipate that the ensemble cast and period-drama appeal will generate pre-release buzz and award season attention.

What’s Next

Further announcements are expected regarding Adele’s character, production schedules, and marketing plans. Principal photography begins mid-January 2026 in London and Rome, with the trailer and promotional materials likely to roll out closer to the fall 2026 release.

Sources

• Deadline Hollywood

• The Hollywood Reporter

• Entertainment Weekly

• Pitchfork

• Harper’s Bazaar