German cinematographer, Karl Walter Lindenlaub has been signed by director, Ashutosh Gowarikar to work on his epic, Buddha. Lindenlaub is responsible for Hollywood films like Independence Day, The Jackal, Up Close & Personal, The Haunting, Black Book and The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian.
In a statement, Gowarikar described the past two months of pre-production as ‘exciting and exhilarating’ to work with a renowned DOP. He says that the films Lindenlaub have been involved in are movies he has seen over and over again and has admired. “I feel privileged to be working with him on Buddha,” he said.
He went on to say that the first important decision that had to be taken by the producer, Bhupender Modi was to make Buddha in English. The director says that he has always felt that religion should cater to an international audience.
Modi hopes that Lindenlaub’s involvement with the film will help with its international appeal.
“Buddha is a truly global film and we needed a team that would have a global sensibility and transcend language barriers,” he said.
The director has been scouting online for a new face to play the title role in the epic film. It will focus on Prince Siddhartha’s journey to enlightenment where he becomes known as Buddha.
Apparently over 6,000 photos and videos have been uploaded to the films website by hopefuls from 100 countries around the world.
Buddha will be Gowarikar’s third period film after Lagaan (2001) which had an Oscar nomination and Jodhaa Akbar (2008).
