Onirban's next film delves into human trafficking

By Subhash K. Jha Oct 16, 2007, 4:17 GMT

Mumbai, Oct 16 (IANS) Director Onirban, whose first two films 'My Brother Nikhil' and 'Bas Ek Pal' provided an interesting study in form, content and style, is now making a film on human trafficking for which the UN will be providing 'authentic statistics and facts'.

'I find it very tough to maintain a balance and not get carried away. I want to keep the subject sensitive and not bring in the sensational element at all. But the subject really moves me. I want to give the topic a global spin.

'For that, the United Nations will provide authenticated statistics and facts. I also want to bring in a German scriptwriter to fine-tune my script after I'm done with it,' Onirban told IANS.

Tentatively titled 'Labyrinth', the project will delve into the sensitive and burning issue of human trafficking. Right now, Onirban is immersed in the process of researching this deep-rooted malaise. Since this film will take him to various parts of the world, it will be his most expensive film to date.

'There'll be multiple stories and an ensemble cast. I'm handling the theme very carefully. I want it to finally be a gripping and emotional story. But yes, the global nature of the theme requires a certain budget. I'll shoot in India, Nepal and the Middle East. So 'Labyrinth' won't be an inexpensive film. There will be known faces in the plot,' he said.

Onirban begins casting soon, after putting the final touches to his script. The film will go on the floors in December.

'Going by the nature of the subject, I need fresh faces. I'll be auditioning a lot of young boys and girls for roles. Of course, there'll be some known actors too,' Onirban said.

The film will be primarily in Hindi. 'But it will have smatterings of English, Nepali and Arabic. And yes, it will have songs in the background. I love songs,' the director added.

© 2007 Indo-Asian News Service