a contemporary virsion of Dumas

I watched "the count of Monte Christo" which was made into a cartoon series for TV. It's produced in Japan. As you know, Japanese animation is fabulous and one of our proud industries.But this time I really feel it difficult to remake a famous classic literature.
Once I watched a TV movie of this novel directed by French TV production or BBC. This was faithful to the original story and very enjoyable. But in Japanese cartoon version they tried to express something new by focusing on psychological description. And they emphasised on the dark side of the story. Indeed this is a story of revenge, but I don't think its atmosphere is mysterious and ennui. Dumas was an optimistic and energetic man, I feel.
Of course it is very important to try something new. We shouldn't be afraid of remaking the great classics. I'd like to value the efforts of Japanese animators. Maybe there are many people who love this cartoon. I know I'm a little bit conservative and obstinate as far as literature is concerned. But still I think it is very difficult to surpass the original. It may be that making a remake of something is more difficult than making brand new film.
But it's really good for killing time to make imaginary cast list.If I directed TV movie of "the count of Monte Christo", I'd like to cast Hugh Jackman as the count. And Paul Bettany as Maximilian. Something different? O.K. There are as many imaginary cast lists as the number of day dream directors.