Since there has been very little hard news about SHANTARAM since Australian director Peter Weir left the project in June, we thought we’d pass along a report from author Gregory David Roberts. Roberts told an audience at the Mantua Literature Festival that Mike Newell is among the directors under consideration to helm SHANTARAM. Newell, the director of DONNIE BRASCO, has proven himself adept with complex stories, exotic milieus, and large ensembles, and he never permits the characters to be smothered by the special effects. No matter how colorful the background, Mike Newell’s movies are always about people. He might have just the right touch to direct a sprawling saga like SHANTARAM.

Gregory David Roberts also told his Mantua audience that Johnny Depp is “perfect” for the role of Lin. He also praised Johnny’s humility: “Johnny is a special man, he doesn’t put on airs like the majority of those who are involved in the Hollywood Star system.” Roberts said that SHANTARAM would begin filming next autumn.

Thanks to emma for the news and Peachy for translating from the Italian.