The individual in question first expressed a passion for directing films at the tender age of 19, subsequently creating a series of short films that showcased his burgeoning talent. Despite not being accepted into the esteemed National Film School, he made the decision to pivot and dedicate himself to acting, making his theatrical debut in 1988 before transitioning to cinema and television.
He eventually gained widespread recognition with his performances in notable films such as Riff-Raff (1991),directed by Ken Loach, Braveheart (1995),helmed by Mel Gibson, and Trainspotting (1996),brought to life by Danny Boyle. However, his most significant breakthrough came when he won the Best Leading Actor award at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival in 1998 for his outstanding portrayal in My Name Is Joe (1998),once again collaborated with Ken Loach.
The Magdalene Sisters (2002) marks the second feature-length film he has had the opportunity to direct, in addition to directing a few episodes of the BBC TV series, Cardiac Arrest (1994),which earned him a nomination for Best Director from the Royal Television Society.
