There's taking on the family business, and then there's what's going on with Liam Neeson and his son, Michael. Twenty years ago Liam had one of his most memorable roles in Michael Collins, playing the titular Irish freedom fighter. And now his son Michael is set to follow in dad's footsteps in the same role.
Michael Neeson will have his feature debut in The Rising, taking on the role his father made famous two decades ago. Directed by Kevin McCann. the film also stars Colin Morgan (Testament of Youth) as Sean McDermott and David O'Hara (Braveheart) as revolutionary leader James Connolly. McCann co-wrote the screenplay which centers on the 1916 Easter Rising, a defining event in which a small rebellion sought to free Ireland from centuries of oppressive British imperial rule.
Liam was nominated for a Golden Globe for his Michael Collins performance, and surely he's hoping for the same kind of recognition for his son. Put these movies together with The Wind that Shakes the Barley to get a fairly broad view of the Irish Civil War.
Maybe when this is over Michael can claim the Taken franchise from dad? [Deadline]
