Polish director Lech Majewski (Glass Lips, Wojaczek) is in pre-production on The Hill And The Cross, an English-language drama to feature Charlotte Rampling.

Majewski is himself producing the film, along with Swedish producer Freddy Olsson of Bokomotiv Filmproduktion. Principal photography will take place in southern Poland this autumn. The film would be finished in time for next summer's festivals.

The Hill And The Cross is inspired by Pieter Breughel's painting The Way to Calvary. Brueghel's painted himself into his epic portrayal of Jesus on the way to his crucifixion and, as such, will play a central role in the film.

Rampling is cast as Jesus' mother; other casting decisions are pending.

Speaking to ScreenDaily.com in Karlovy Vary, Olsson did not reveal the budget of the film but acknowledged that much of the financing comes from Polish Television and the Polish Film Institute.

Brueghel's painting famously includes 500 detailed figures. Olsson said Majewski intends to 'bring the painting to life' in the film. 'A lot of costumes are being made,' he said.

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