Iconic Mancunian actor Steve Coogan will return to his home city on April 22 to preview his new film, The Look of Love, and answers questions at the Cornerhouse.
Directed by long-time collaborator Michael Winterbottom, the Middleton-born star portrays eccentric club mogul and one-time ‘King of Soho’ Paul Raymond, who made his millions through property, magazines and porn.
And Cornerhouse staff are delighted to be welcoming Coogan, Mancunian film writer Matt Greenhalgh and possibly Rochdale-born actress Anna Friel back to the North West.
“We’re long-time fans of Michael Winterbottom’s work so we’re really excited to be hosting this special Manchester preview of The Look of Love, on the home turf of its stars and writers,” said the cinema’s director of programmes and engagement Sarah Perks.
“We can’t wait to hear from them in person at our post-screening Q&A, and are really pleased that local people will get a chance to ask them about the film.”
Blackburn-born Winterbottom – who has directed such stars as Angelina Jolie, Kate Winslet and Casey Affleck – is known for his trademark intense visuals alongside his association with Coogan.
Their previous efforts together included Mancunian classic 24 Hour Party People – about the city’s musical scene – comedy ‘film-within-a-film’ A Cock and Bull Story and The Trip.
And having directed the controversial 9 Songs in 2004 – featuring non-simulated sex scenes which shocked UK filmgoers – Winterbottom is no stranger to adult-themed films.
Yet his latest effort – while featuring mature themes – is more focused on the psyche of Raymond himself in a performance which has seen Coogan garnished with early rave reviews.
It remains to be seen whether the film becomes a genre classic like Boogie Nights, but with the director avoiding cheap thrills for serious drama, the signs are good for the Alan Partridge actor.
Tickets to the event are on sale to Cornerhouse members now, and go on general sale on April 12 – the film is on general release as of April 26.
Picture courtesy of BBC, via Youtube, with thanks.
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