The Damned United

Director: Tom Hooper

Writer: Peter Morgan

Cast: Michael Sheen, Timothy Spall, Colm Meaney, Jim Broadbent

Distributor: Sony Pictures Classics

Country: UK

Theatrical Release Date: October 9, 2009

Synopsis: Set in 1960’s and 1970’s England, "The Damned United" tells the confrontational and darkly humorous story of Brian Clough’s doomed 44 day tenure as manager of the reigning champions of English football Leeds United. Previously managed by his bitter rival Don Revie, and on the back of their most successful period ever as a football club, Leeds was perceived by many to represent a new aggressive and cynical style of football - an anathema to the principled yet flamboyant Brian Clough, who had achieved astonishing success as manager of Hartlepool and Derby County building teams in his own vision with trusty lieutenant Peter Taylor. Taking the Leeds job without Taylor by his side, with a changing room full of what in his mind were still Don’s boys, would lead to an unheralded examination of Clough’s belligerence and brilliance over 44 days. This is that story. The story of The Damned United. Adapted for the screen by Peter Morgan (The Queen, The Last King of Scotland, Frost/Nixon) from the best-selling and critically acclaimed novel by David Peace. Directed by Tom Hooper (John Adams, Longford, Elizabeth I). [Synopsis courtesy of Sony Pictures Classics]

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