Production company The Natural Studios, run by Bear Grylls and Delbert Shoopman, is developing a new iteration of the Dumas classic The Count of Monte Cristo.

Monte Cristo is written by Tom Williams and will be made in collaboration with producers Ben Grass and Christophe Charlier.

Set in the present day, the film focuses on the friendship and bitter rivalry that develops between two special forces soldiers who are sent to war in Afghanistan.

The film marks the first scripted project for The Natural Studios, which is a joint venture with Banijay.

Grylls and Shoopman said: “We loved the idea of updating this universally-loved story of friendships, betrayal and revenge, and were completely taken by Tom Williams” original and innovative take. This is action adventure storytelling at its finest and celebrates above all, resilience and redemption.”

Grass and Charlier added: “It”s an honour to collaborate with Bear, Del and Tom, on this fresh reworking of the Alexandre Dumas classic. We aim to create a captivating action film with great scale and sweep that is certain to thrill global audiences.”

The aim is to shoot in 2021.

Image: The Natural Studios.