Movie adaptation of classic computer game Manic Miner in the works.

Despite previous film adaptations of classic computer games being largely considered failures, a new production of classic 80s Sinclair Spectrum game Manic Miner has been announced.

An existential arthouse work, it will feature a miner slowly questioning his sanity as his mine fills with surreal items like tractors, toilets and Ronnie Corbett’s face.

For reasons he can’t explain, the miner becomes compelled to remove the items one by one, but rather that feeling accomplishment, he just moves ever on into the depths of the mine to collect ever-more bizarre items.

“It’s very much a Kafkaesque work,” said director Alan J. Pollock

“I want to get to the crisis at the very heart of the miner. What is it that has made him so manic? Why does he not simply glance at the terrifying collection of toasters and top hats in his mine and say ‘stuff this, I’m going for a Wimpy.’”

It is understood that Tom Hardy is interested in taking the part of the miner, but only if he can do it in a funny voice.

Mr Pollock confirmed that, even if Manic Miner is a success, he has no interest in directing the sequel – Jet Set Willy, about a drunken aristocrat prevented from going to bed by his housekeeper until he’s cleaned his 150-room mansion.

“No,” he said

“That’s just stupid.”