The upcoming film, The Fall of Sir Douglas Weatherford, features Scottish actor Peter Mullan and delves into the intricate relationship between history, identity, and the fabrications we embrace. Directed by Seán Dunn, this marks his debut in feature films after successful short films like British by the Grace of God and Kingdom Come. The film will have its world premiere on January 30, 2024, at the 55th International Film Festival Rotterdam as part of the Big Screen Competition program.
Set in the fictitious Scottish village of Arberloch, the narrative revolves around the local legend of Sir Douglas Weatherford, an 18th-century inventor and philosopher. The film explores how this local myth is overshadowed by the arrival of a fictional fantasy series, The White Stag of Emberfell, which brings droves of flamboyant cosplaying fans to the area. Mullan portrays Kenneth, a tour guide at the village’s visitors’ center dedicated to Sir Douglas. Dressed as his historical counterpart, Kenneth faces an existential crisis as the realities of modern fandom challenge the myths he cherishes.
Dunn describes the film as “a darkly comic study of aging, identity, and the fictions we cling to when everything around us shifts,” a sentiment echoed by the festival organizers. The cast also includes Gayle Rankin, Jakob Oftebro, Sid Sagar, and Lewis MacDougall.
The project is produced by Ossian Pictures, Forensic Films, and Come Into the Fold, with support from BBC Film, the BFI Film Fund, BBC Scotland, and Screen Scotland. Cinematography is handled by David Gallego, while Shakti Bhagchandani takes care of editing. The production design is credited to Jamie Morgan Lapsley, and the soundtrack features music by Gazelle Twin.
Dunn has shared insights into his inspiration for the film, recalling a pivotal moment during a visit to Edinburgh with his wife, who is a fan of the Harry Potter franchise. They encountered tourists performing an incantation at the grave of Thomas Riddle, a historical figure connected to the fictional character Voldemort. This experience sparked Dunn’s interest in the interplay between historical narratives and contemporary fantasies.
He reflects on Scotland’s narrative, often viewed through its historical relationship with England. “We tell ourselves that we are working-class and care about the common man. But when you travel around, there are Scottish names associated with historical conquests,” Dunn notes. This contrast raises questions about the myths we uphold and how they shape our identities.
Working with Mullan has been a highlight for Dunn. “He’s such a great actor,” he remarked, adding that Mullan’s improvisational skills added depth to the role. Mullan’s previous experience in fantasy, particularly as King Durin III in The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power, adds a unique layer to his portrayal of Kenneth.
While Dunn acknowledges he is not a fervent fan of Game of Thrones, he appreciates the sociological aspects of how fantasy series influence local tourism. He aims to treat fantasy fans with respect, using humor without malice. The film’s fictional character, Sir Douglas, embodies the spirit of Scotland’s inventive legacy during the Scottish Enlightenment, serving as a representation of the historical figures that shaped the nation.
The focus of Kenneth’s journey is his struggle to reconcile his beliefs with the changing perceptions around him. Dunn describes this as a reflection of modern societal shifts, where many are grappling with changing narratives. “We could be in danger of potentially losing our humanity,” he states, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a connection to our roots amid evolving identities.
As Dunn wraps up his work on The Fall of Sir Douglas Weatherford, he remains creatively active, developing new projects. He is currently working on a story set in the late 19th century about a man facing an identity crisis, as well as another narrative exploring themes of surveillance and conspiracy at the turn of the millennium.
With its rich thematic exploration and a talented cast, The Fall of Sir Douglas Weatherford aims to captivate audiences and provoke thought about the fictions that shape our identities. As the film gears up for its premiere, anticipation builds around its unique blend of humor, historical inquiry, and fantasy critique.
