James Purefoy, of nudey period romp Rome fame, has been cast in the lead role in Solomon Kane, a trilogy of movies planned based on the stories by Robert E. Howard.
Not familiar with Solomon Kane? Allow us to fill you in:
Set in the 16th Century, the story follows the titular soldier, who learns that his brutal actions have damned him to hell. Not wanting to spend an eternity burning and being poked with pitchforks, he swears to live a life of peace until, inevitably, he is forced to return to his violent ways when a dark power threatens his homeland. So he fights with a sword of justice and a big hat of mild peevishness.
Michael J Bassett (Deathwatch) will direct from his own script. “Kane is a dark hero who has faced terrible things and turned to God for redemption and guidance," says Bassett of the character. "He sees himself as a righter-of-wrongs but is conflicted by a growing realization that he might be both a force for evil as well as good. James Purefoy understands this duality and I know he’ll bring a really powerful and intense heroism to the screen. He’s perfect for the role - and the fact that he’s devilishly handsome doesn’t hurt either.”