Pierce Brosnan, 71, discussed his experience working on The Last Rifleman a film that allowed him to explore Northern Ireland, a place he had not known well since leaving Southern Ireland at age 11.
In the movie, Brosnan portrays 92-year-old World War II veteran Artie Crawford, who, after the death of his wife, sneaks out of his nursing home to attend the 75th anniversary of the Normandy landings in France.
The film, directed by Terry Loane, was shot in locations across Ireland and France, and it marked Brosnan’s return to Northern Ireland, where he later filmed Four Letters of Love.
Brosnan described his experience as a rediscovery of his Irish roots, saying that the creativity and warmth of the people there left a lasting impression.
He explained that playing Artie, who was based on a real WWII veteran, involved a significant transformation, requiring two hours of makeup each day.
The role, which involved flashbacks to Artie’s traumatic wartime experiences, helped Brosnan reflect on the emotional depth of his character.
The film explores themes of war, redemption, love, and friendship.
Brosnan highlighted the poignant relationships Artie forms with characters like Juliette (Clémence Poésy) and fellow veteran Lincoln Jefferson Adams, played by the late John Amos.
Brosnan, who had been eager to work with Loane after enjoying his earlier film Mickybo and Me praised the director’s passion for the story and his emotional approach to filmmaking.
