AN Oscar-nominated Scottish film composer is writing the score for a new film about the Declaration of Arbroath, it has been confirmed.
Patrick Doyle is putting together the score for the movie, being produced by National columnist Lesley Riddoch and filmmaker Charlie Stuart, which focuses on the letter submitted to Pope John XXII in 1320 that set out to confirm Scotland’s status as an independent, sovereign state.
The declaration’s 700th anniversary was set to be marked by celebrations in Arbroath this weekend, but has had to be postponed until next year due to coronavirus.
READ MORE: Celebrating Arbroath anniversary, even under coronavirus lockdown
Lanarkshire-born Doyle, a long-time collaborator of Kenneth Branagh, has composed music for the likes of Harry Potter And The Goblet Of Fire, Brave and Thor.
Riddoch said: “Patrick contacted us after hearing about the progress of the film in my weekly podcast, and offered his services.
“Charlie and I were amazed he was so keen to be involved and able to work at quite a pace – the film must be online this weekend to fill the gap left by cancelled 700th anniversary celebrations.”
Riddoch’s colleague Stuart said since “everything’s been done in less than two weeks, it helps us enormously to split some of the workload with such an accomplished professional”.
Speaking from his London home, Doyle said: “Quite apart from its politics, the declaration is a fabulous, layered, poetic document – full of pride, heart and spirit that stands the test of time. An incredible mix.
“If I was the Pope receiving it back then, I’d shake my head and say – that’s a pretty persuasive letter!”
The film – working title Declaration – received some backing from lottery millionaire Chris Weir and features historians Fiona Watson and Tom Turpie, author Andrew Redmond Barr, and broadcasters Billy Kay and Alistair Heather.
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