Almost. Almost as good as Gérard Depardieu’s Monte Cristo (1998). Or Jean Marais’ (1954) for that matter. And, although this is the best adaptation I’ve seen since childhood, Sam Claflin’s Edmond Dantes seems to be missing some depth.

I grew up watching The Count of Monte Cristo mini-series directed by Josée Dayan – and Gérard Depardieu was definitely one of my first crushes as Edmond Dantes. I have to admit though, looking at the casting through the lens of my current understanding of cinema, the casting of the 2025 Bille August’s adaptation is perfect – each actor fits their role like they were born to play it. That’s how you know (or how I know – given how subjective all of this is).

The 2025series seems to be the definition of a classic adaptation. Great camera work; decent score (which is so subtle that perfectly blends with the image – which some would consider a signal of a perfect movie score); and the adaptation’s very loyal to the book – nothing extravagant. But something’s missing. Something’s missing in how the characters are brought to life on screen, despite how great the actors are.

There is no immersion for the audience. I am very much aware I am watching a film – because Sam Claflin and all the other amazing actors act too much instead of impersonating their roles. There’s a big difference between the two – and Gérard Depardieu seemed to know that better. I am one to know cause I have lost count of how many times I have rewatched that 1998 series. It is incomparable.

Depardieu’s Edmond is not just a character on screen – he has a vengeful and much stronger presence that encompasses the audience, fully takes over the narrative and keeps the audience on their toes every second. Sorry for the harsh comparison, but Claflin’s Monte Cristo is weak – and, this seems to be the same for all the other characters and the film’s score as well.

Yet, as flat as I think this 2025 adaptation is, Bille August and his team have done a great job crafting a classic adaptation that’s going to be digestible for today’s audience. Hence, 7/10 fits, no?