Brian Cox Makes Directorial Debut With Glenrothan

Brian Cox, renowned for his role as media tycoon Logan Roy in the acclaimed series Succession, has taken a bold step into the director's chair with his latest film, Glenrothan. This marks a notable transition for the actor, who is approaching his 80th birthday and has spent decades captivating audiences with his performances. Glenrothan is his directorial debut and features Cox in a leading role, portraying Sandy, one of two estranged brothers entangled in the family business of whisky distilling in the Scottish Highlands.

The film, which opens in cinemas on April 17, 2026, tells the poignant story of two brothers, Sandy and Donal, played by Cox and Alan Cumming, respectively. Donal, who left Scotland for America 40 years ago following a family dispute, returns home after a series of personal setbacks, including a failed jazz club in Chicago. His return is spurred by a letter from Sandy, who faces the potential sale of their family distillery if Donal does not step in to take over.

Cox describes Glenrothan as a "love letter" to Scotland, emphasizing the need for humanity and connection in troubling times. He shared his thoughts on the film, stating, "I think we need it desperately. To remind ourselves that we're human beings and not war machines." The film was written by David Ashton, who has a rather limited filmography, with his previous notable work being the 1992 James Bond spoof Freddie as F.R.O.7.

Filmed across various picturesque locations in Scotland, including the village of Gartmore in Stirlingshire, the film captures the scenic beauty of the Highlands. Cox's directorial approach, informed by his extensive experience as an actor, aims to enable rather than control his cast. He remarked, "I realized I'm an enabler. It's my job to enable people to do what they do best rather than stand in the way." This sentiment reflects his desire to create a collaborative environment on set.

As a director, Cox has received mixed reviews for his handling of the material. Critics have pointed out that the screenplay often falls into the trap of clichés and predictable storytelling. The film's tonal inconsistency has also drawn criticism, with some calling it a disjointed mix of comedy and melodrama. One reviewer noted that the film feels like "Sunday-night TV comfort food" but lacks the depth and emotional resonance that such narratives typically require.

In terms of character development, the relationship between the brothers is central to the plot. The film explores themes of family, regret, and reconciliation, but some critics feel that the screenplay does not adequately explore these themes. For example, the reason for their estrangement is revealed to be disappointingly underwhelming, leading to a lack of genuine emotional engagement.

Performance-wise, Cox and Cumming bring their seasoned talents to the screen, yet some reviews suggest that their portrayals are hampered by the script's weaknesses. Cumming's character, Donal, often appears lost in the narrative, with moments of charm overshadowed by a lack of clarity in his role. In stark opposition, Shirley Henderson, who plays Jess, Donal's childhood sweetheart, has been praised for her authentic and grounded performance, adding a layer of depth to the film.

Visually, Glenrothan has been lauded for its stunning cinematography, capturing the breathtaking landscapes of the Scottish Highlands. Critics agree that the film's scenic beauty is a highlight, yet some argue that it leans too heavily on these visuals, using them as a substitute for substantive storytelling. The film's reliance on picturesque settings may be seen as an attempt to appeal to international audiences, smoothing out its cultural specifics for broader marketability.

Amidst the critiques, Cox remains optimistic about his directorial future. He expressed a willingness to take on more directing roles, stating, "I think I would [direct again]. Especially after this onslaught. I may have bitten off more than I can chew, but if I get through that, I think I would be ready to direct another film." His enthusiasm for storytelling and collaboration shines through, even as he navigates the challenges of his debut.

As he prepares to celebrate his 80th birthday this June, Cox reflects on a remarkable career that has spanned over six decades. He hopes to mark the occasion with a party in the UK, though his busy schedule may pose challenges. Alongside his acting and directing endeavors, Cox's wife, actress and producer Nicole Ansari Cox, contributes to the film with a cameo and has directed some of its drone sequences, highlighting their collaborative spirit.

In a humorous moment captured on set, Cox recalls a scene where he rugby tackles Cumming's character. "We're too old for this," Cumming's character moans, to which Cox's Sandy retorts, "Says whom?" This playful exchange reflects the lighter moments interspersed throughout the film, even as it grapples with heavier themes.

Though Glenrothan has received a mix of praise and criticism, it stands as a personal project for Brian Cox, who has embraced the challenge of directing at this stage in his life. The film's exploration of family dynamics, set against the backdrop of Scotland's stunning landscapes, offers audiences a chance to witness a different facet of an actor who has long captivated them. Whether it will resonate with viewers , but Cox's passion for storytelling is undeniable.

As the film approaches its release date, audiences will have the opportunity to judge for themselves. Glenrothan serves as both a reflection of Brian Cox's artistic evolution and a reminder of the enduring power of family, even when faced with the passage of time and unresolved conflicts.