"The Man Who Would Be King" is a classic adventure story originally written by Rudyard Kipling and famously adapted into a 1975 British-American film directed by John Huston. The plot centers on two rogue ex-soldiers of the British Army, Danny Dravot and Peachy Carnehan, who in the late 19th century set out from British India to the remote region of Kafiristan. Their plan is to become kings by offering their military services to local rulers, then overthrowing them to seize power and wealth for themselves. The story unfolds as they journey through dangerous terrain, gain followers, and achieve military victories that lead the locals to believe Dravot is a god. They are eventually hailed as kings after a test involving an arrow wound that Dravot survives, which is seen as a divine sign. However, Dravot's desire to marry a local woman leads to his downfall when she bites him, revealing his mortality. The locals turn against them, resulting in Dravot's death and Carnehan's brutal capture and escape. The tale concludes with Carnehan recounting their adventures to Rudyard Kipling, presenting Dravot's skull crowned in gold as proof of their story

. The 1975 film adaptation stars Sean Connery as Dravot and Michael Caine as Carnehan, and it is noted for its adventurous spirit and exploration of imperial themes. It was nominated for several Oscars and remains a celebrated classic of the adventure genre

. In summary, "The Man Who Would Be King" is a tale of ambition, friendship, imperialism, and the hubris of two men who attempt to become rulers in a distant land but face tragic consequences.