In the story, the Green Knight challenges the Knights of the Round Table to strike him, which if they succeed, he can return to them a year and a day later.

Sir Gawain, the youngest and King Arthur’s nephew, takes him up on the offer, and later must confront his half of the bargain.

The official synopsis of the film suggests a slight spin on the original story, with A24 writing: “An epic fantasy adventure based on the timeless Arthurian legend, The Green Knight tells the story of Sir Gawain (Dev Patel), King Arthur’s reckless and headstrong nephew, who embarks on a daring quest to confront the eponymous Green Knight, a gigantic emerald-skinned stranger and tester of men.

“Gawain contends with ghosts, giants, thieves, and schemers in what becomes a deeper journey to define his character and prove his worth in the eyes of his family and kingdom by facing the ultimate challenger.

“From visionary filmmaker David Lowery comes a fresh and bold spin on a classic tale from the knights of the round table.”