New Delhi: International filmmaker Sandrine Bonnaire has come on board to direct veteran Bollywood star Jackie Shroff in the upcoming film ‘Slow Joe’ based on late Indian composer Joseph Manuel da Rocha.

Bonaire said, “Joseph Manuel da Rocha’s story is poignant and extraordinary, showing that it’s never too late to overcome adversity and achieve your dreams. I’m really excited to be a part of this film with a talented cast.” I’m excited and can’t wait to start shooting for the film.” in a statement.

Da Rocha, better known as Slow Joe, was a former heroin addict and drug dealer who was born in Mumbai, rejected by his family, and left heartbroken at the age of 50. And later he went to Goa and committed suicide.

In 2007, during a trip to Goa, Lyon-based French musician Cédric de la Chapelle met 64-year-old Jo, who was working as a hotel room broker. Jo, also a poet and musician, sang for de la Chapelle, who was charmed by her voice and recorded some of her a cappella songs.

“I’m thrilled to be joining forces with Sandrine Bonnaire to direct ‘Slow Joe,'” Jackie said in a statement. His extraordinary talent and vision will undoubtedly take the film to new heights.”

“It is an honor to work with such a respected filmmaker, and I look forward to bringing Slow Joe’s extraordinary journey to audiences around the world.”

The film is produced by Isabella Shreyashi Sen and Olivier Doc, co-CEOs of Singapore production house Hazelnut Media.

Sen and Doc said, “We are extremely excited to bring this international story of hope to the screen and are thrilled to have Jackie and Sandrine on board this project.”