Bebingtorn-born Hollywood director returns to Wirral

Oct 30 2012 By Lorna Hughes

HOLLYWOOD director Alex Cox’s visit to Hoylake Community Cinema was a sellout success.  

Almost 140 people were at Hoylake Community Centre on Friday to meet the Bebington-born filmmaker, with many hoping to buy tickets on the night left disappointed.  

Before a screening of the Sergio Leone classic, For a Few Dollars More – one of his main influences – Alex agreed to be interviewed by Hoylake student and aspiring filmmaker Luke Holmes.  

Luke, who is studying film at Stoke University, said: “I couldn’t believe my luck when Alex said he would let me interview him as part of my degree. He was extremely comprehensive in his replies to my questions, and willingly expanded where necessary.   

“He is genuinely a warm and generous man.”  

After the screening Alex took questions from the audience, first on the Sergio Leone film, and then about his career as a director.   

Mark Howard, from organisers Hoylake Village Life, said: “I was really surprised to see how many of the audience stayed behind to join in the Q&A session.   

“Many had travelled considerable distances, some from Nottingham and London, to attend this event, which speaks volumes for Alex’s popularity.  

“Hoylake Community Cinema has only been running for just over a year and already word is spreading that our film nights are inspirational social events.   

“We hope our next film, the great Fritz Lang classic Metropolis, will attract the same level of interest.”  

The director said it had been a “privilege” to attend.