Welsh actor, writer, and director Celyn Jones is taking on Madfabulous as his next directorial project. This British independent film is based on the real-life story of Henry Cyril Paget, the fifth Marquess of Anglesey, who was once one of Britain’s wealthiest individuals but died penniless and forgotten at age 29 in France.
Set in the 1890s, the story is filled with pathos and humanity as Paget struggles to capture the attention of his uninterested family. He responds with ever-increasing flamboyance, extravagant spending, and dancing, says Jones. At a time when gender fluidity wasn’t understood, Paget embraced his theatrical personality and seemingly unlimited wealth by purchasing a theater company, collecting jewels, and doing things that resonate with today’s social media world.
Jones compares Paget to David Bowie and Marc Bolan and likens the story to films like The Favourite, Amadeus, Marie Antoinette, and Brewster’s Millions. Mad As Birds, the production company run by Jones, Sean Marley, and Nicola Pearcey, will produce the film in partnership with Ffilm Cymru Wales.
Principal photography will start this summer in Anglesey, Wales, where Jones grew up. He describes this colorful project as a step up from their previous black-and-white film, Set Fire to the Stars.
Jones has three theatrical releases this year. Swede Caroline, a mockumentary about competitive vegetable growing, is currently out, featuring an ensemble cast including Jo Hartley, Richard Lumsden, and Alice Lowe. His feature directorial debut, The Almond and the Seahorse co-directed with Tom Stern and starring Rebel Wilson in her first dramatic role, is set for release on May 10.
The film, which explores traumatic brain injuries, received a warm reception at its U.K. premiere, where many survivors praised its accurate portrayal of their experiences. The third film, Chuck Chuck Baby, is due in July and follows a group of women working in a chicken factory.
'The Almond and the Seahorse' Filmmaker Celyn Jones to Direct 'Madfabulous' (EXCLUSIVE) https://t.co/4KtobmztHY
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Jones appreciates that each of these three films is led by women stepping into their first lead roles. Jo Hartley leads Swede Caroline, Rebel Wilson takes on drama in The Almond and the Seahorse, and Louise Brealey stars in Chuck Chuck Baby. The fact that these independent films have gained international recognition is a testament to the dedication and care of those involved.
Jones has been an actor for 25 years and a screenwriter for about half that time. As a director, he is drawn to unique characters and storylines. He seeks complexity in his roles, finding depth and bravery in the blend of the light and dark sides of human nature, unafraid to explore both positivity and the darker elements of the human condition. Source
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