The Edinburgh International Film Festival has set the world premiere of ‘England Is Mine’ by Oscar-nominated Mark Gill, as the closing night film of its 71st edition, the festival announced Thursday. A biopic based on the early life of singer and former Smiths frontman Morrissey, ‘England is Mine’ stars rising British actor Jack Lowden (War & Peace, Dunkirk) and Jessica Brown Findlay (Downton Abbey).
“Morrissey is one of Britain’s most iconic artists, and this delve into his formative years is a witty and enthralling look at a great music talent,” said Edinburgh’s artistic director Mark Adams.
Set in 1970s Manchester, it tells the story of Morrissey as an introverted, uncompromising teenager, frustrated with his working-class existence. Dreaming of a successful music career, he finds solace in the city’s underground music scene, where he meets an intelligent, self-assured artist who encourages him to make his ideas of superstardom a reality.
‘England Is Mine’犀利士
marks the feature debut of filmmaker Gill, who received Oscar and BAFTA nominations for his 2013 short film ‘The Voorman Problem’ which starred Martin Freeman and Tom Hollander. It is produced by Baldwin Li and Orian Williams. Williams previously produced Anton Corbijn’s music biopic ‘Control’ about Joy Division frontman Ian Curtis.
The Edinburgh International Film Festival runs June 21-July 2.