Majid Majidi ropes in AR Rahman for “Beyond The Clouds”

Renowned Iranian filmmaker Majid Majidi announced the title of his new international movie “Beyond The Clouds”, a Hindi language project to be shot in India with an Indian cast. For the film, Majidi has roped in Oscar-winning composer AR Rahman and actor Ishaan Khatter, read a statement issued on behalf of the makers yesterday.

Ishaan, the brother of Bollywood actor Shahid Kapoor, has been chosen as he is a “wonderful boy” who is “extremely talented”, Majidi said, adding that he foresees a “bright future” for the young actor.

“Beyond The Clouds”, which went on floors on Monday, is being produced by Zee Studios and Eyecandy Films. The film dwells on nuanced human relationships, an area Majidi specialises in.

Talking about the film, Majidi said, “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 cajoled 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.”

The leading lady of the film is yet to be finalised, even as there were rumours that Deepika Padukone was being considered for a pivotal role in the movie.

Rahman will be working on the score of the project, and this film will mark the Mozart of Madras' second association with the director after “Muhammad: The Messenger of God”.

Majidi has been doing a location recce for the film in India since the past few months. It will be shot at numerous locations in India.

The details of the project were announced at a small gathering, in the presence of Majidi, Ishaan, Rahman, along with representatives of the studios. Also present were Ishaan's parents Neelima Azim and Rajesh Khatter, along with brother Shahid.