Netflix

Fans have shared their excitement over Netflix's upcoming period drama featuring a 'genius' star in the leading role. East of Eden is set to land on the streaming platform in just a couple of months.

It is the latest attempt to adapt the epic novel of the same name written by John Steinbeck, which was published in 1952. The author is also famed for penning such classics as Grapes of Wrath and Of Mice and Men. East of Eden is said to be one of his masterworks, as the family saga tells a story across generations, covering such events as the American Civil War and World War One.

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The writer himself features as a minor character in the latter sections. Meanwhile one of the families featured is said to be based on his own family history, on his maternal grandfather's side.

Netflix's upcoming version of the story is being adapted by Zoe Kazan, who has her own personal connection to the book. A previous film adaptation was actually directed by her own grandfather - the double Oscar winner Elias Kazan. However his interpretation only concentrated on one part of the book.

Her upcoming seven-part series will try and be a more faithful version, while concentrating on one certain character. That of Cathy Ames, described as an antihero.

Midsommar and Thunderbolts star Florence Pugh will take on the role of Ames, with the show's writer saying she is 'perfect for the role'. She also revealed her genius after watching her work on set.

She told Netflix's Tudum website: “Her awareness of the camera is unparalleled I don’t use this word lightly: I think she’s a genius. I watched her on set for five months. I have no more insight now as to how she works than I did before. I can see how hard she works, and I can see how much it means to her, but there's no obvious preparation or process that is visible to me at least.”

This has all worked to increase fan excitement ahead of its release. Netflix shared updated images of Pugh and her fellow cast members in character, with many agreeing with Kazan that Pugh looks perfect for the role.

One fan even claimed: "If Florence can turn a Steinbeck classic into a binge‐worthy drama I'm ready to trade my apple for popcorn."

Meanwhile someone else wrote: "Florence really knows how to make every character feel so intense... I'm seated for this one."

Another shared their hope as they said: "Can't wait for this! One of my favourite books of all time."

While one person claimed: "Florence Pugh as Cathy Ames is perfect casting. That look already has pure menace in it. October 1 can't come soon enough."

And a fan commented: "Florence Pugh as Cathy Ames already looks absolutely captivating. East of Eden is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated limited series of the year."

East of Eden is streaming on Netflix from October 1.