Shantaram Forum

As reported on the community forum yesterday, we can confirm news stories floating around the web detailing Johnny Depp’s reluctance to shoot the Shantaram movie in India, quoting security concerns.

This will deeply sadden many fans of the book, who have patiently waited for news that the production was underway. It appears that Depp is more keen on using Mexico as a location, rather than Mumbai and India.

The good news is that Mira Nair is not budging on the location, insisting that the ambience of Mumbai’s dusty streets would not be recreated on sets. Some news sites are reporting on rumours that Nair is being removed from the project. It is worthwhile to note that this speculation cannot yet be confirmed, and we feel Mira is still the best candidate for director of this movie given her previously outstanding work.

Our opinion here on the Shantaram Forum is that if the movie goes ahead then it should be set as authentically as possible. Not only to aid the drama of the scenes, but to reveal more of the real India through the imagery set by the novel.

Source: spicezee news:

"Confirming the news, Irrfan Khan, who has been roped into play the role of a musician in the film, said, “From what I understand, Johnny Depp wasn’t too keen to come to India. Brad Pitt and he are good friends. What happened with Brand and Jolie in Mumbai scared him off, apparently".

What are your feelings on this? Let us know in the comments below, or head on over to the community to give us your thoughts

In other news

Head on over to this website to catch a picture of Gregory David Roberts having a copy of GQ mag signed by the eminent actor Irrfan Khan (Namesake)

Ever wanted to delve deeper into the themes and meanings in Shantaram? If the answer is yes, then we’ve found a great website that will do just that.

The guide has a number of excelent sections, including a character list, analysis of chapters (organised into groups) a section dedicated to major themes and lastly, a few tests!

Now if that sounds interesting to you then head on over to this website to read through the various chapters of this guide. It is available to buy in PDF and hardcopy, should you want your own copy.

If you find anything you’d particularly like to discuss with other fans of the book, then come on over to our community forum and ask! We’d love to hear your thoughts and questions.

Enjoy! – The Shantaram Forum