Actor Guo Jinglin (left) plays agricultural scientist Yuan Longping (right) in the film "Yuan Longping".

Chinese agricultural scientist Yuan Longping, known in China as "the father of hybrid rice", has had a chance to play himself in a biopic which bears his name.

In "Yuan Longping", which premiered in Beijing on Friday, 78-year-old Yuan makes a cameo appearance, sharing the leading role with actor Guo Jinglin, who portrays Yuan from his 30s to 60s.

The film chronicles Yuan's legendary life and his development of hybrid rice which was later hailed as a breakthrough in the fight against hunger.

Yuan's romantic life is also a highlight in the film.

The State Administration of Radio, Film, and Television, China's broadcasting watchdog, has listed the film as a recommended tribute to this year's 60th founding anniversary of the People's Republic of China.

The film will open in theaters later this month.

Yuan Longping successfully developed the world's first hybrid rice varieties in 1970s. His rice has since been grown in countries in Africa, America and Asia, proving a robust food source in areas with a high risk of famine.

Famous economist Don Paarlberg once called Yuan's achievement a "victory over the threat of famine".

(CRI May 23, 2009)