From Page to Screen: Watergrave Takes Its Next Big Step

A year ago, Watergrave was just launching as a novel. Today, it’s moving steadily toward the screen.

That’s still surreal for me to write.

On a recent episode of The Mitchell S. Karnes Podcast (simulcast with The Neil Haley Show), we dove deep into what’s happening right now with the Watergrave film and streaming adaptation—and things are officially in motion.

The Film Is Moving Forward

Just last week, I met with the core creative team who will be bringing Watergrave to life visually:

• Cinematographer – with experience working in New York on multiple productions

• Director – connected through that same cinematography network

• Sound designer / audio coordinator – shaping the tone, mood, and atmosphere of the story

We spent significant time talking through Watergrave’s emotional weight—how certain scenes should feel, not just how they should look. The conversations went deep into tone, pacing, and atmosphere. Some of the technical talk went over my head (as expected), but one thing was crystal clear:

They’re aiming high.

The film will be shot in 5K, meeting the highest technical standards required by major streaming platforms like Netflix. The goal is simple: shoot for the top, then pitch from a position of strength.

The Release Plan (As It Stands Now)

Here’s the current working plan for Watergrave:

• A limited theatrical release, so the pilot episode can premiere on the big screen

• Seeing Watergrave on a marquee—something I never imagined but deeply hope happens

• A four-episode streaming season:

  • Episode 1: the theatrical pilot

  • Episodes 2–4: continuing the story

If this season connects with audiences the way the book has, the long-term plan is to adapt Books Two, Three, and Four, with the team hoping to produce two seasons per year.

We don’t yet know where it will stream—that will depend on pitching once the project is completed—but the strategy is to aim high and let the momentum guide the next step.

Casting Is Taking Shape

Some exciting casting updates are already in place:

• Kristen Obe as Abbey Rhodes

• Phil Vassar as Sam

• I’ll be playing Susan’s father, a small role at the end of Season One that grows in later adaptations

• Maeve, the women’s ministry coordinator, has been cast (from a Nashville singing group background)

• My daughter has been cast as the administrative assistant in the homicide department

Casting is still ongoing for two major roles:

• Skyler

• Susan, the widow of the pastor whose death launches Watergrave

The production team is currently deciding between two casting agencies—one in Nashville, one in Atlanta.

Filming Locations Feel Personal

One of the most meaningful parts of this journey is the potential filming location.

The church used as the primary setting in Watergrave—including the creek behind it—is a church where I once served as pastor. That space deeply shaped the book, and seeing it potentially become part of the film brings everything full circle.

We’re still finalizing schedules and permissions, but it’s an incredible possibility.

Why the Timeline Shifted

Originally, filming was targeted earlier, but the timeline has now moved to July, primarily due to:

• Financial scheduling related to Tennessee’s revenue department

• Allowing proper time for casting and preparation

Honestly, I see this as a positive. Rushing would hurt the project. Taking the time to do it right matters.

Why This Story Translates So Well

One thing my publisher keeps telling me—and I’m seeing it firsthand—is that everyone who’s read Watergrave responds strongly to it.

People don’t just enjoy the story—they identify with it.

Some see themselves in Abby.Others connect deeply with Susan.Many recognize the trauma, faith struggles, and healing journey woven throughout the book.

Yes, people are even passing their copies along to others (not ideal for immediate sales—but amazing for building a loyal audience). That tells me the story is doing what I hoped it would do: reach people.

The Brand Is Growing

Beyond the film news, there’s momentum across the board:

• Over 16,000 YouTube views this month

• Growing podcast listenership

• More guest podcast appearances planned for 2026

• New podcast launches on the horizon

• Newsletter growth picking up steam

What started as a single book release has become something much bigger—and I’m incredibly grateful.

What’s Next

Right now, we keep doing what we’ve been doing:

• Writing the next books

• Building the audience

• Telling the story well

• Letting the right doors open at the right time

If you’d like to stay connected as this unfolds—including film updates, signed copies, upcoming events, and special releases—you can visit:

👉 mitchellskarnesauthor.com

We’re even talking about special signed holiday bundles and autograph editions in the near future.

A year ago, none of this felt possible.Today, it feels real.

And we’re just getting started.

— Mitchell S. Karnes