Majidi’s First India Flick

Renowned filmmaker Majid Majidi is preparing for a new international project with his first film made in India.

‘Beyond the Clouds’ written and directed by Majidi, is an Indian romantic musical drama film with music composed by the famous Indian Oscar-winning composer A. R. Rahman who collaborated with Majidi in his previous epic film ‘Muhammad, the Messenger of God’.

The movie is thematized on the adoration of love, life and nuanced human relationships, a subject Majidi is quite adept at handling, the Hindustan Times reported.

“Filmmakers like Satyajit Ray, whose work I adore, have represented India’s culture, rich heritage and the lives of common people to a global audience. These visions and images have stayed in my mind for years and inspired me to make a film in India. Finally, I’m in Mumbai with a lovely team to narrate a story woven around the lives of common people,” said Majidi at a press conference on January 23 in Mumbai.

The Hindi language project is to be shot in India with an Indian cast. While the leading lady is yet to be finalized, Majidi has chosen Ishaan Khattar, well-known actor Shahid Kapoor’s younger step-brother, to play in the lead role in his debut film. 

On casting Ishaan, Majidi said: “Ishaan is a wonderful boy. He is extremely talented and I feel he will have a bright future in the film industry.”

Although well-known Indian actress Deepika Padukone had earlier done a look test for the film in tattered clothes, she has not been signed for the film. “I want to work with Deepika. But for this film we thought we will go with all new faces. We decided so because we didn’t want a mix of experienced and new faces. It was going to be either of the two. We settled for an all new star cast,” Majidi said.

  Different Locations

Produced by Zee Studios and Eyecandy Films, the movie will be shot at different locations in India.

On collaboration with the Iranian filmmaker, Akash Chawla, business head of Zee Studios, said: “It’s our pleasure to associate with a global icon like Majidi. Over the years, he has narrated stories with authenticity and honesty that Zee also aligns itself with while serving content to its audience globally. This film, his first venture in the country, celebrates an India unseen by the world with a heartwarming story”.

Shareen Mantri Kedia and Kishor Arora from Eyecandy Films also hailed Majidi. “Words can’t describe the genius that he is. Majidi’s vision and artistry are unparalleled. As fans, we have been spellbound by his narratives. It’s an honor to bring him to India. Working with him and developing this project over the last few years has been an enriching experience.”

Majidi, 57, is best known for world cinema classics like ‘The Song of Sparrows’, ‘Baran’, ‘The Color of Paradise’’ and ‘Children of Heaven’.