Joffe
NEW DELHI -- Helmer Roland Joffe plans to make a $40 million epic on the first Anglo-Maratha war starring Bollywood's latest star, Vivek Oberoi.
Pic will be produced by Joffe, Peter Rawley's Luzardero production company and Ajey Jhankar's Neelmudra Entertainment from a story by Jhankar and a script by Joffe.
The budget is huge by Bollywood standards; the most expensive film to date is the $10 million "Devdas," India's submission for foreign lingo Oscar consideration this year.
"The Invaders" will revolve around the first battle between English troops and the Maratha dynasty at Wadgaon in western India in the late 18th century.
"It is said that this battle has been scrapped from history by the English troops who were defeated. Our idea is to highlight this battle," said Jhankar.
Pic will be made in English and Hindi.
Joffe was in Bombay recently to tie up Oberoi for the lead role of a Maratha warrior, Jhankar said. A Hollywood lead is yet to be cast.
Joffe is best known for "The Killing Fields," which bagged three Oscars, and for the critically acclaimed "City of Joy," based on Dominique LaPierre's book set in Calcutta.
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