Watch Colin Firth Try to Circumnavigate the Globe in the Trailer for The Mercy

Donald Crowhurst is a complicated figure in British history. A failing business owner who was looking to drum up sales of his nautical device, the Navicator, Crowhurst decided to take part in a race to circumnavigate the globe. It was an inspiring story at the time, although what transpired during the race was not.

But director James Marsh and star Colin Firth of The Mercy both have a history of portraying complicated British characters. Marsh directed the Stephen Hawking biopic The Theory of Everything, and Colin Firth is, well, Colin Firth.

The film will follow Crowhurst through the entire process: securing funding, building his trimaran sailboat and the race itself. Rachel Weisz co-stars as Crowhurst’s wife, and David Thewlis plays Crowhurst’s press agent.

The Mercy comes out Feb. 9, 2018 in the U.K. No word yet on its U.S. release.