SmartLess "Brian Cox"
35 snips
Mar 2, 2026 
Brian Cox, acclaimed Scottish actor known for Hannibal Lecter in Manhunter and Logan Roy on Succession, chats about directing his debut film Glenn Rothen and casting choices. He recounts growing up in Dundee and theatre training, reflects on iconic film roles and voiceover work, and explains his collaborative directing style and respect for creative teams.
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Directing Debut Cast His Son As Father
- Brian Cox made his film directing debut with Glenn Rothen and cast his own son as his father to challenge family dynamics on screen.
- He described surviving the shoot as the main surprise and emphasized creating a collaborative, non-egotistical set to let departments do their best work.
Great Directors Give One Precise Note
- Cox believes the best directors give actors the right note and then remove 'attitudinizing' so scenes reveal themselves organically.
- He praised Lindsay Anderson for giving precise notes that freed performances rather than controlling them.
Give Actors Latitude To Own Characters
- When directing actors, give them latitude to own their character instead of forcing a pre-visualized version from the director.
- Cox emphasized performance and music are elements you cannot micromanage and must let breathe.