Mark Rylance one of the greatest stage actors ever: SpielbergLos Angeles, July 3(AZINS) American Oscar-winning director Steven Spielberg heaped praise on actor Mark Rylance, whom he picked for the role of a giant in his forthcoming fantasy adventure film "The BFG".

Spielberg says Rylance is “one of the greatest stage actors ever”.

The film is set to release in India on July 15. Reliance Entertainment has planned a pan-India release for the film in four languages -- English, Hindi, Tamil and Telugu.

Written by Melissa Mathison, "The BFG" is based on the novel of the same name by Roald Dahl.

“Mark would go into complete character transformation when the camera was rolling. And while he is one of the greatest stage actors ever, it was the Mark in between takes that really touched my heart. It was then that I knew he could do anything,” Spielberg said in a statement.

The film also stars Ruby Barnhill, Penelope Wilton, Jemaine Clement, Rebecca Hall, Rafe Spall and Bill Hader.