Bekmambetov Takes "Ben-Hur" Redux

Russian filmmaker Timur Bekmambetov ("Wanted," "Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter") is in talks to direct a new adaptation of "Ben-Hur" says The Wrap.

Keith Clarke ("The Way Back") is writing the adapted script based on the bestselling 1880 book by Civil War General Lew Wallace. The property was adapted for big screen once before as William Wyler's 1959 film classic starring Charlton Heston.

MGM is said to be keen on Bekmambetov's vision which explores the original story's themes of revenge and redemption.

Sean Daniel and Joni Levin will produce the film.

The news comes as Bekmambetov vacates the in-development historical drama "The Current War".