Post by : Raman

Brian Cox, the famous Scottish actor best known for his role as Logan Roy in the TV series Succession, has taken on a new challenge at the age of 79. For the first time in his long career, he has directed a feature film. The movie, titled Glenrothan, had its premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival and has already gained attention for its emotional story and the fact that Cox is making his directorial debut.

A Story of Brothers and Reconnection

Glenrothan is set in a small fictional town in the Scottish Highlands. The film tells the story of two brothers who have been estranged for 40 years. Cox plays one brother, while actor Alan Cumming plays the other. The film follows their journey as they try to reconnect after decades of distance.

Cox shared that the story is close to his heart because it deals with themes of family, forgiveness, and rediscovering bonds that were once broken. He explained that too many modern movies focus on action and cynicism, while Glenrothan offers something warmer — a story with heart.

From Actor to Director

Cox has directed dramas in the theatre before but had never taken the director’s seat for a feature film. He admitted that he was nervous at first about making the move. “It was a good challenge,” Cox said. “At the moment, there are not enough movies that have heart. There’s a lot of cynicism.”

His biggest influence as a director was Lindsay Anderson, the late British filmmaker. Cox said that Anderson taught him an important lesson: to allow things to unfold naturally rather than forcing them into a specific mold. This approach shaped how Cox guided his cast and crew during the making of Glenrothan.

Cox and His Characters

Although audiences worldwide know Brian Cox as the fierce and commanding Logan Roy from Succession, Cox admitted that he relates much more to Sandy Nairn, the kind and gentle character he plays in Glenrothan. “I’m more of a Sandy, by my nature,” he said with a laugh.

This shows another side of the veteran actor, one that many fans might not expect after seeing him in such a powerful and often harsh role in Succession.

Working With a Strong Cast

The film also stars Shirley Henderson, who praised Cox for being clear and direct in his vision. She said he never hesitated to make his wishes known on set, ensuring that the project stayed true to his storytelling style.

Cox’s chemistry with Alan Cumming, who plays his brother, adds depth to the story. Their performances highlight the pain of separation, the awkwardness of reunion, and the slow rebuilding of trust that family ties often require.

Directing: A Demanding Job

When asked if he would direct again, Cox admitted that the process was exhausting and demanding. “Yes, I probably would do it again if somebody asked me, but this may be my one and only so I’m taking it for all it’s worth,” he said.

For him, the challenge was worth it. Even though it pushed him out of his comfort zone, the project allowed him to create something deeply personal and meaningful.

More Than Just a Film

Beyond the story itself, Glenrothan represents something bigger. It shows that creativity has no age limit. At 79, Cox is still finding new ways to tell stories. He is proving that it is never too late to take risks and follow new artistic paths.

His move into directing also sends a message to the film industry: that audiences are still hungry for films that focus on emotional depth, family, and humanity rather than just spectacle.

A Career of Many Faces

Brian Cox’s career has spanned decades, with roles in theatre, film, and television. While his performance as Logan Roy brought him global fame in recent years, his earlier work showed his wide range as an actor. From Shakespearean roles on stage to Hollywood films, Cox has always been able to adapt.

Now, with Glenrothan, he adds “film director” to his long list of achievements.

Looking Ahead

Whether or not Cox directs another film, Glenrothan will stand as a special project in his career. It is not just about two brothers finding each other again; it is about an artist proving to himself that he can take on a new challenge and succeed.

As the film makes its way through festivals and, eventually, to theaters, audiences will get the chance to see a different side of Brian Cox — both as a director and as a performer who plays a character much closer to his real personality.

In a world full of fast-paced, cynical films, Brian Cox’s Glenrothan offers something refreshing: a story about love, loss, and healing. It is proof that even after decades in the industry, an artist can surprise audiences with something new and meaningful.

For Cox, stepping behind the camera may have been exhausting, but it has given him — and us — a movie filled with warmth and humanity.

Brian Cox news, Glenrothan movie, Scottish film, directorial debut, Alan Cumming