Michael Winterbottom is fast becoming one of the UK's most renowned directors for his vast, fast and diverse output. Teaming up with Steve Coogan is becoming a habit and now another film with them both is on the cards.
Winterbottom has recently obtained the rights to make a film based on the former UK's Ambassador to Uzbekistan book, Murder In Samarkand. The author, Craig Murray recounted stories of torture to gather information and other deplorable tactics the government used which, following his objections, resulted in his sacking. Coogan is tipped for the part which will have a comical touch (as the book does). Winterbottom and Coogan have already worked together on Cock and Bull Story, currently in cinemas, and also 24 Hour Party People.
Meanwhile, Winterbottom's startling film Road To Guantanamo about the detainees is due to be shown in cinemas and on Channel 4 next month. However, it's in the news again as it emerged that two of the films stars were held at Luton airport under the terrorism act following their return (with the two people they played in the film) from Berlin having just won an award for the film. Life and art becomes ever more confusing each day!