Cherie Blair embarks on new film career

By Tania Snuggs, news reporter

Cherie Blair, the wife of former Labour prime minister Tony Blair, is embarking on a new film career.

The barrister is to serve as executive producer on Israel-Palestine drama, The Rock Pile, starring Hugh Bonneville.

The movie tells the story of Time magazine war correspondent Bob Hastings, played by the Downton Abbey star.

While on assignment in Jerusalem, he uncovers a tale of three young boys, of different faiths, who are brought together through football.

In 2008, Mrs Blair founded the Cherie Blair Foundation For Women, to help them build small businesses in developing countries.

Speaking about her latest venture, she said: “Given my own Foundation’s work in Israel and Palestine – and Tony’s work on the Middle East peace process – we are deeply aware of the human cost of the conflict and the benefit of bringing stories about the reality on the ground to a global audience.

“Stories like The Rock Pile can alter people’s understanding, foster engagement and ultimately trigger action for change.”

The cast also includes American actress Hope Davis and model turned actor Alan Ritchson.

British award-winning director John Deery – who worked with Bonneville in “Conspiracy of Silence” – says he’s “delighted” that Ms Blair has joined the team.

He said: “Her knowledge of the region and her ability to harness support for the project have been invaluable.

“The Rock Pile goes to the very heart of one of the world’s most intractable and emotive of struggles – the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

“I have been fortunate to surround myself with some great talent to help bring my vision to the screen for this timely and important film.”

The project will film on location in New York and Israel.