Peter Mullan's first film as a writer and director Orphans tells the story of four siblings in the direct aftermath of the death of their mother. Though the film was made not long after the death of Mullan's own mother he stated at the time that it was not autobiographical but rather the four characters had been constructed around the different emotions he had been experiencing since her death, and that the film was more of a response to her loss. Orphans is in the great tradition of independent films which captures something of the energy, humour and patois of the community it depicts, with an authenticity that only someone who has lived and experienced that world can bring. In the 16 years since it was made Mullan has only gotten behind the camera on a further two occasions with The Magdalene Sisters in 2002 and Neds in 2010, though hopefully he can balance his work as an in-demand character actor with future directorial outings.
As well as the odd article, I apply my "special mind" to scriptwriting for Comics, Films and Games... Oh and I cut down trees, I skip and jump, I like to press wild flow'rs, I put on women's clothing, and hang around in bars.
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