An insight into a beloved musician and superb lyricist. This should be great.
Widely regarded as one of the greatest musicians of all time, Shane MacGowan’s work continues to inspire new generations of artists.
Aside from his poetic lyrics and songs, MacGowan’s personal life has also provided plenty of highs and lows.
Well, one person that can handle MacGowan’s story with a greater sense of understanding is his close friend Johnny Depp, and Variety have reported that Depp will will have an integral role in Julien Temple’s documentary about the lead singer of The Pogues.
Simply titled Shane, the documentary will provide viewers with an intimate and detailed portrait of MacGowan’s life.
Temple will also produce the film alongside Depp, Stephen Deuters, and Stephen Malit.
In terms of its narrative approach, the feature will use animation, unseen footage from Temple’s own archives, and contributions from collaborators, artists and MacGowan’s own family.
The synopsis states that the documentary will “reveal Shane’s true punk and poetic nature, culminating in his 60th birthday celebration where singers, movie stars and rock ’n roll outlaws gathered for a knees-up to remember.”
Variety have also reported that Altitude Films will distribute the film in the U.K. and Ireland, and that it’s set to be shown on BBC Four at a later date.
Speaking about the film, Depp said: “Knowing Shane for 30 years, I am honoured to be producing the definitive film on both my friend and one of the most important artists and beloved poets of the 20th century.”
The film’s director, Julien Temple, has said: “It’s not the easiest thing to make a film about Shane MacGowan. The nearest thing I can think of is one of those David Attenborough films. You set the camera traps. You wait and you wait, in the hope that one day the snow leopard will trigger them. Then when you do actually capture the unique force of Shane’s personality, even for a moment on screen, you realise it was all worthwhile.”
We’re certain that fans of Shane MacGowan are in for a treat when Shane is released.
LISTEN: You Must Be Jokin’ with Aideen McQueen – Faith healers, Coolock craic and Gigging as Gaeilge
