X-Men Director Bryan Singer to Remake Fantasy Classic 20,000 Leagues Under The Sea

Bryan Singer is best known for the X-Men series--the original 2000 movie was very much the beginning of the modern superhero craze, and he has to date directed four movies in the franchise. But the filmmaker will take a mutant break for his next movie, as he prepares to direct a remake of 20,000 Leagues Under The Sea.

As Deadline reports, Fox have have come on board for the film, which Singer will direct from his own script. It is expected to begin production in the Autumn.

In September last year the director revealed on Instagram that he was planning the remake. "It's my 50th birthday (ouch), and I just put the finishing touches on the script for my next film. A story I've wanted to retell since childhood," he wrote. "I promise this will be an epic and emotional adventure for all ages! An adventure very dear to my heart. Not abandoning the #xmen universe."

In a new statement, Singer confirmed the news that he had signed with Fox to make the film. "Ever since I was a boy and first discovered the 1870 Jules Verne novel, I have dreamt of retelling this classic story," he said. "Without revealing too much, it contains not only the original characters of Captain Nemo, Ned Land, and Professor Aronnax, but also some new and original characters and Sci Fi plot twists culminating in a timeless adventure for all ages."

The previous film adaptation of the Verne novel was released in 1954 by Disney. It starred Kirk Douglas and James Mason, and is now considered a classic of the fantasy genre. A remake has been in the works at various studios for a number years, with David Fincher and Terminator: Salvation director Joseph Nichol (aka McG) both lined up to direct versions of the story.

Singer's next film is X-Men: Apocalypse, which is set for a May 27, 2016 release.