Anderson: "The Master" inspired by Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard

(AP) VENICE - Director Paul Thomas Anderson said it's no secret that the central character in "The Master" was inspired by Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard.

The highly-anticipated film, which premiers Saturday at the Venice Film Festival, stars Philip Seymour Hoffman as a charismatic spiritual leader who captivates Joaquin Phoenix's troubled World War II veteran.

Anderson said he views a love story between two men.

Anderson said the fact that Hoffman's character was inspired by Hubbard "is not an elephant in the room." He says he has shown the film to Tom Cruise, who starred in Anderson's 1999 film "Magnolia" and whose Scientology beliefs are well-documented.

"We are still friends. I showed him the film, and the rest is between us," Anderson said.

Spike Lee doc pays tribute to Jackson's genius
"At Any Price" premieres at Venice Film Festival
Venice Film Festival 2012: Michael Shannon chills in "The Iceman"
Venice Film Festival to showcase young Hollywood

To view a trailer for "The Master" click on the video player below.