Mumbai (AsiaNews/Agencies) - Titled 'Thirty Pieces of Silver', the first 3-D movie about Jesus Christ will be made almost entirely in India. It is expected to be released simultaneously next Easter in 5,000 movie theatres around the world. Production is expected to start at the end of July in nine languages, including Malayalam and English, at a cost of 35,000,000 rupees (US$ 625,000).
"It took us almost a decade to finish the script based on the New Testament," said producer Johny Sagarika. "Director Kurien Varanasala personally held many rounds of discussions with experts on Bible".
Shooting will start in Ramoji Rao Film City in Hyderabad, but many scenes are planned in Jerusalem. The team will travel to Hampi in Karnataka for the crucifixion scenes.
The 300-strong cast will include 50 people from Kerala. A new actor, Jeremy Jairus, will play the main character. All the 12 disciples will be new faces as well. All the technicians will be brought from abroad.
'Thirty pieces of silver' (Muppathu Vellikkasu) will be presented at the Pastoral Orientation Centre in Kochi on 5 June in the presence of 35 bishops and with the full blessing of the church.
