Mumbai, Nov 22 (IANS): Actor-producer Anil Kapoor has been cast in Amazon's original pilot based on "The Book of Strange New Things".

The upcoming pilot is based on the cult novel from Michael Faber. It is about a priest who is sent into space to help found a new colony. But what he ends up discovering not only puts his faith to the test but life as we know it. 

The one-hour drama pilot, a co-production of Amazon Studios and Left Bank Productions, will show Anil playing Vikram Danesh, the authoritative head of the base on Oasis.

"'The Book of Strange New Things' is a mesmerizing genre-defying novel from a writer in full command of his many talents, and we couldn't think of anyone better than Anil Kapoor to play this complex role," Nitesh Kripalani, Director and Country Head, Amazon Video India, said in a statement.

The pilot is set to be written and executive produced by Matt Charman (of "Bridge of Spies" fame) and produced by Andy Harries and Lila Rawlings (Left Bank Productions) with Kevin MacDonald directing it.