Alexandre Dumas’ thrilling and beloved classic novel The Three Musketeers has spawned multiple adaptations since its publication in 1844, but none have approached the scope and spectacle of this wildly entertaining, blockbuster two-film production from director Martin Bourboulon, who assembles an all-star cast for the first French cinematic treatment in over 30 years.

Set in the early 17th century kingdom of France, the opening instalment D’Artagnan follows a spirited young swordsman, Charles D’Artagnan (François Civil), on his journey from Gascony to Paris to join the King’s elite Musketeers of the Guard. Along the way, he narrowly escapes death whilst heroically saving a woman from being kidnapped. In his efforts to enlist, D’Artagnan manages to offend the sensibilities of three of the most formidable Musketeers in the ranks, Athos (Vincent Cassel), Porthos (Pio Marmaï) and Aramis (Romain Duris).

But D’Artagnan soon wins them over, and his dedication to help his newfound friends and serve King Louis XIII (Louis Garrel) will lead him not only into the path of the mysterious Milady de Winter (Eva Green) and the Queen’s consort Constance (Lyna Khoudri), but into the heart of a conspiracy where the future of the nation itself is at stake.

France’s biggest box-office success of 2023, Bourboulon’s magnificent production - lavishly produced with a budget of over €70 million - is respectful of its source but enriched with contemporary touches; the film is chock-full of humour, romance, palace intrigue and pulse-pounding action.

The Three Musketeers: D’Artagnan unquestionably delivers as a smart and hugely involving big-screen experience for all ages. Audiences are assured of lining up for the thrilling conclusion, Milady, within moments of the end credits.