Nikolaj Arcel in talks to direct big screen adaptation of The Dark Tower

Nikolaj Arcel is in talks with Sony Pictures Entertainment and MRC to direct the big screen adaptation of Stephen King’s The Dark Tower. The book focuses on a gunslinger’s journey towards a tower, the nature of which is both physical and metaphorical. While negotiations are on-going, the Royal Affairs director is in pole position to direct the first film of the book series.

Akiva Goldsman and Jeff Pinkner have written the latest draft of the script, which is based on the first book in King’s series, ‘The Gunslinger’. The movie’s has been described as majestic blend of fantasy and horror. The film will be produced by Akiva Goldsman under the banner of Weed Road, along with Ron Howard, Brain Grazer and Erica Huggins.

Arcel is best known for directing A Royal Affair and writing the screen play for the Swedish version of The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo, which was nominated for the Oscars in 2013 in the category of best foreign film. Sony Pictures Entertainment and MRC will be financing the film. While MRC is also developing the companion TV series that’s long been part of the adaptation plans.