Jake Gyllenhaal wouldn't wear sandals in 'Prince of Persia: Sands of Time'.

The 29-year-old actor admits he didn't want the fantasy adventure to be perceived as a "swords and sandals epic" and did his best to avoid stereotyping.

He said: "This is not a swords and sandals epic. It's definitely not that. NOne Of Us wear sandals in this movie. I made a very conscious decision and it was very important to me that I did not wear sandals.

"This is a huge, classic epic filled with real characters. It has those wonderful old-school elements you love about film and yet at the same time it's right there on the cutting edge."

Discussing the toned physique he displays in the movie - in which he stars alongside British actress Gemma Arterton and 'Rules of Engagement' star Ben Kingsley - Jake admits it took a look of preparation.

He said: "I worked out for seven months. I wanted to be able to be able to do this stuff. And being intimidating was important. Even if it's just for myself, being confident fighting the stuntmen!"