Shantaram (2008) Options

[deewani]

It has been known for some time that Gregory David Robert's novel Shantaram is being turned into a movie by none other than Johnny Depp's production company formed 2 years ago. Johnny had snatched up the rights to the movie and will play the lead character. Originally Peter Weir was to direct, but last week it was announced that Mira Nair is now directing. And now, deewani can die happily because her dream has come true, Amitabh (click for article) has agreed to be in it! Depp, Amitabh, together on big screen. I cannot wait for this movie! (Chunky is also supposed to do a cameo as himself, as he is in the book in a scene where he is filming the song Aage Chor Peeche Chor from Paanch Paapi). Shilpa Shetty is currently in talks as well.

A bit about the movie:

The film would be based on he book by Gregory David Roberts, a book that is said to be partly autobiographical. The story follows an Australian heroin addict who escapes from prison and disappears into the slums of Bombay, where he poses as a doctor helping the poor. His mission becomes real, and he delves into counterfeiting, smuggling and gunrunning to finance his medical efforts.

The author's website - though the book is a piece of fiction, it is based on events largely in Mumbai in the 80s. www.shantaram.com