The film that Arturo Pérez-Reverte absolutely recommends watching: it's on Prime Video and it's the version of one of the best novels in history.

Arturo Pérez-Reverte not only sweeps the bookstores with his novels, but he's also become a true icon on social media. From his 'X' account (formerly Twitter), the RAE member often recommends books, movies, and series. And when he's enthusiastic about something, he says it bluntly. That's what happened with the new film adaptation of The Count of Monte Cristo, a French blockbuster that's now available on platforms like Prime Video, although only available for rent or purchase.

“Last night I saw the new film of The Count of Monte Cristo and I really enjoyed it. I spent three hours enjoying it. I think it's an excellent version of one of the best novels of all time,” Pérez-Reverte wrote on his profile. Following that comment, a follower asked him if it was better to read Alexandre Dumas's classic first or watch the film. The answer was clear: “You can watch the film first, if you want. The novel is extraordinarily superior. And it will take you longer.”

The film, directed by Alexandre de La Patellière and Matthieu Delaporte, who are responsible for other literary adaptations, was presented at the Cannes Film Festival in May of last year. It soon after hit French theaters, where it became a cultural phenomenon. With a budget of nearly €43 million, it grossed over $73 million at the international box office, drawing millions of viewers to relive one of the most gripping plots ever written.

The cast is led by Pierre Niney in the role of Edmond Dantès, accompanied by Bastien Bouillon, Anaïs Demoustier, Anamaria Vartolomei, and Laurent Lafitte. Critics have praised both the acting skills and the visual ambition of the production, which recreates 19th-century France in great detail.

Alexandre Dumas's original novel, published in 1844, is considered one of the greatest monuments of world literature. Its story of betrayal, revenge, and justice continues to captivate readers and viewers two centuries later. In this sense, the film respects the essence of the text, condensing its multiple plots into a 178-minute narrative that manages to captivate without betraying the original.

The sets, costumes, and photography transform each sequence into an immersive experience that reminds viewers they are witnessing one of literature's most universal stories. It was a resounding success in France: nearly ten million tickets sold and a box office tally that placed it as one of the major European releases of 2024. Its festival run and nominations indicate it will also sweep the upcoming awards season.

That Pérez-Reverte has embraced this film is no surprise. The writer is known for his demanding approach to classic literature and his critical view of adaptations that fail to do justice to great texts.