Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson is set to become Hercules

Action man Dwayne Johnson is set to star in Bret Ratner’s forthcoming film, Hercules. After months of negotiating and figuring out his busy schedule, it seems Johnson has finally locked the lead. The role, which was most notably played by Arnold Schwarzenegger, is based on the Greek mythological demi-god, renowned for his great strength and legendary adventures.

Ratner will direct the film, which is now being co-produced by Paramount and MGM. Writer Ryan Condal adapted Steve Moore’s graphic novel ‘Hercules: The Thracian War’ with script revisions from Evan Spiliotopoulos, who’s also been working on Wanted 2. The story sees the Thracian king summon Herc and six battle-weary pals, tasking them with getting his army into fighting shape. Lured by the promise of gold and glory, Hercules readily agrees, but soon comes to realise how far he’s fallen from grace and what he might need to do to find some redemption. MGM’s Roger Birnbaum, Gary Barber and Jonathan Glickman will produce with Peter Berg and his Film 44 partner Sarah Aubrey, as well as Barry Levine of Radical Pictures, whose Jesse Berger will exec produce.

Johnson has been a busy man since leaving the ring. In the past several years he has carved himself a respectable career as one of Hollywood’s leading action stars. His credits include the critical and commercial success, Fast Five and the sci-fi sequel Journey 2: The Mysterious Island. At the moment he’s set to star in the highly anticipated blockbuster sequel GI Joe: Retaliation alongside Bruce Willis, due next March, and Michael Bay’s action-comedy Pain & Gain which is slated for an April release.

DirectorBrett Ratner has had a tough few years, receiving lukewarm responses from films including Rush Hour 3 and 2006’s X-Men: The Last Stand; despite last year’s Tower Heist receiving a generally positive reception, Ratner still has a lot to prove.

Production is scheduled to begin early next year.