Entertainment: Will The Black Prince charm Cannes?

The first official trailer of The Black Prince, a biopic of India’s one of the most noble kings, Maharajah Duleep Singh will be showcased at the Cannes Film Festival on Saturday.

Written and directed by Hollywood film maker, Kavi Raz, the film captures the tragic yet fascinating story and legacy of Maharajah Duleep Singh, touching upon his fragile relationship with Queen Victoria, who was godmother to his children.

The film unfolds the complex story of the Maharajah who was torn between two cultures , converted to Christianity and gifted the famous Kohinoor diamond to Queen Victoria as a 13-year-old aristocrat and later longed to return to his own kingdom and roots.

Produced by Brillstein Entertainment Partners (producer of the Academy Award winning film 12 Years A Slave), the film is touted to be the most historical and factually accurate portrayal, covering the phenomenal legacy led and left behind by Maharajah Duleep Singh, right from his early upbringing in the United Kingdom under Queen Victoria, to his ultimate revolt against the British for the freedom of his kingdom.

The lead role is played by a multi-gifted artist, singer, composer and Sufi poet, Satinder Sartaaj, who is making his debut in the film. Portraying the dignified personal struggle of the last King of Punjab, he imbues the role with the same depth and meaning that his fans know him for. Jason Flemyng (as Dr Login) and Shabana Azmi (as Rani Jindan) join him in other main roles. The film also features Keith Duffy, David Essex OBE, Canadian actor Rup Magon in supporting roles. Amanda Root plays the role of Queen Victoria.

The film is releasing worldwide on July 21. The Black Prince has already received positive responses in various film festivals and will be at the centre of many activities in Cannes too.