The saga of an Indian urchin who realises his dreams is set to become the first Indo-Italian project under the film co-production treaty signed by the two nations earlier this year.
The film, an adaptation of a book by Italian filmmaker Sergio Scapagnini, is to be directed by Goutam Ghose and will go on the floors in 2006.
"'The Story of Lala' - based symbolically on the legend of Ulysses - is in the first stages of production and Ghose is working on the script," Scapagnini said on the sidelines of the 36th International Film Festival of India.
The 59-year-old filmmaker said he was pleased to be the first beneficiary of the May 2005 co-production treaty between India and Italy.
"We are currently location-hunting for the film, which is to be shot in India and at Naples in Italy," Scapagnini said.
Renowned actor Omar Sharif, who also stars in the filmmaker's project 'Fire At my Heart,' is expected to be part of the new venture.
"As for Indian stars, Ghose has worked with top-notch Bollywood stars in the past and I'm sure there would be several in the film. However, that's the director's call," Scapagnini said.
{{/usCountry}}"As for Indian stars, Ghose has worked with top-notch Bollywood stars in the past and I'm sure there would be several in the film. However, that's the director's call," Scapagnini said.
{{/usCountry}}At the moment, the filmmaker is on the lookout for a talented Indian boy who would play the title role of Lala in the film.