Filmmaker Michael Matthews has been roped in to direct Merlin for Disney. The film is a live-action adaptation of author TA Barron's novel series of the same name.

Initially, filmmaker Ridley Scott, who recently directed The Last Duel for Disney-owned 20th Century Studios, was set to helm the project. But he exited the movie due to his busy schedule.

The book series follows the story of a young Merlin who would go on to become the mentor of the classic literary character King Arthur.

Merlin has a latest draft of the script from writer Chris Weitz. The film will be produced by Gil Netter. Matthews is best known for directing the critically-acclaimed adventure film Love & Monsters, starring Dylan O'Brien and Jessica Henwick in the lead.