HONOR SWINTON BYRNE

IS ACTING ROYALTY…

It was really one of the most spectacular experiences of my life,” says Honor Swinton Byrne, referring to her lead role in Joanna Hogg’s sublime The Souvenir. Co-starring with her mother, Tilda Swinton, the 21-year-old British newcomer has just finished the sequel, too. A glittering career awaits her, if she wants it that is…

How did Joanna Hogg pitch you

The Souvenir? She told me very little before we started.

It was a real adventure. We went on it together. I didn’t know a lot. And I was really happy that I didn’t, so we launched on it together.

You’re playing a version of Hogg here. Were you guided by her and your mother, who was friends with her back in the day?

I’ve been guided by my mother and Joanna my entire life! So it came very naturally. I was very lucky. And, of course, they helped me with everything and we worked as a little threesome. It was lovely.

How did you prepare for the role of Julie?

I didn’t prepare for this role at all, because I wasn’t really given anything, which I really enjoyed. I enjoyed it being an ongoing, flowing adventure. That was what gave me the kick.

The Souvenir: Part II.

You’re now in But will you continue acting?

That’s a very good question. I have no plans to do it again, apart from Part II, but then I don’t know how life is going to go. Yes,

I am improvising life… but this will always be so close to my heart for ever, and nothing will ever be quite as meaningful to me in the same ways. As for what I want to do, I’ve applied for university at Edinburgh and I hope to study psychology and neuroscience, so that’s my next ambition, my next project. So fingers crossed.

ETA | 30 AUGUST / THE SOUVENIR OPENS THIS MONTH.