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 Filming is underway on what is shaping up to be one of the biggest productions to come out of Wales. The film Risen, about the boxing phenomenon "The Welsh Wizard" Howard Winstone has been generating such interest it promises to put Wales firmly on the cultural map.
Born in Merthyr Tydfil in 1939, Howard Winstone was nick-named The Welsh Wizard. Although he had lost the top of three fingers from his right hand, Howard Winstone not only won the British Featherweight title in 1961, but remained in the championship class until he finally retired in 1968. Out of 67 fights he lost only six. He died on the 30th September 2000
The story of Howard Winstone - named Merthyr Man of the Century by a proud home town - is being bought to life by Burn Hand Film Productions Limited. The film's director Neil Jones (originally from Merthyr) is not surprised by the buzz surrounding the film ‘It's a great story which is why so many people want to get involved. It's exciting to be shooting in my hometown here in Merthyr. For me, this will be the best film to come out of the UK.' Much of the cast and crew are originally from Wales and will be filming in Merthyr, Swansea and Cardiff for the next few weeks.
The 'Risen' phenomenon has been rapidly gaining momentum and has attracted many famous names from the world of sport and film. Australian actor John Noble (of Lord of the Rings fame) will take the role of Eddie Thomas, Howard's manager. Whilst Enzo Maccarinelli, the current WBU World Cruiserweight Boxing Champion, will play Eddie Avoth.
Cardiff based actor Stuart Brennan will play Howard in the feature and says he is more than ready for the challenge 'With this role comes a great responsibility, Howard was a legend, a hero to many and I feel privileged to be playing such an amazing character. A lot of work has gone into this and its fantastic that filming has started, now everyone will know about the Welsh Wizard'.
A distribution deal with Supersonic Films has been secured which should see the feature on the silver screen across the UK.
A taste of things to come is available in the form of the short film 'The Fifteenth' which was also produced by Burn Hand Films see www.howardwinstone.com for details.
Burnt Hand Films website
Howard Winstone website
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I am one of Howard Winstones\' grandchildren. (Daughter of Wayne Winstone)
I havn\'t really heard much about the making of the film \'Risen\' but am very interested in finding out more about it such as where and when filming will take place ect. If there is any information you can give me please e-mail me on the above address.
Thanks for your time
Lynwen.