MUMBAI: I Am Kalam director Nila Madhab Panda has roped in Richard Gere for an international film based on the problem of world food insecurity.

It is reported that Panda got in touch with Gere through a common friend about his script based on the problem of world food insecurity. It is said that Gere liked the script and is looking forward to begin shooting.

The film will have Gere play a foreigner who comes to India and gets involved with the socio-political set up of a village. I Am Kalam star Harsh Mayar will play the village boy who interacts with him.

It is also understood that Will Smith is keen to co-produce the film. A Netherland -based company will handle the production.

The pre-production work on this film will begin in January 2012.