Directed Guy Ritchie announced the official start of production on "Knights of the Round Table" with the photo from the set of the Warner Bros. epic. The image reveals star Charlie Hunnam, not in the gleaming armor of so many adaptations of Arthurian legend, but rather in a costume that would look right at home on "Vikings."

It's in keeping with the more grounded -- even gritty? -- approach to the origin story, which is envisioned as the first film in a sweeping six-part franchise. Here's the official synopsis:

The bold new story introduces a streetwise young Arthur who runs the back alleys of Londonium with his gang, unaware of the life he was born for until he grasps hold of the sword Excalibur—and with it, his future. Instantly challenged by the power of Excalibur, Arthur is forced to make some hard choices. Throwing in with the Resistance and a mysterious young woman named Guinevere, he must learn to master the sword, face down his demons and unite the people to defeat the tyrant Vortigern, who stole his crown and murdered his parents, and become King.

Opening July 22, 2016, the film also stars Astrid Berges-Frisbey, Jude Law, Eric Bana, Djimon Hounsou and Aidan Gillen.

First day on KORT. pic.twitter.com/JPv8esPDnu— Guy Ritchie (@realguyritchie) March 10, 2015