Spent first six years of life in Blackpool, England

Initially trained as a photographer before going to drama school

Had supporting roles in such made-for-TV productions as "A Woman of Substance" (syndicated, 1984) and "Cream in My Coffee" (PBS, 1990)

Met Adrian Dunbar while both were members of the Royal Court Theater Company in liverpool

Directed at the Central School of Drama where he ran a film and television course

Taught a course for New York actors at Cornell University under the auspices of the Royal National Theatre

Played a leading role in the British-made feature film, "Indian Summer"

Made film directing debut with the 11-minute Channel Four short, "Treacle"

Made 16 commercials, including advertisements for Molson Canadian Lager, Tetley Beer and the Express newspaper

Made feature directorial debut with "Hear My Song"; co-wrote script with Dunbar, who also co-starred

Directed, produced and co-wrote with Peter Flannery, "Funny Bones"

Directed a film centered on the relationship between two youths, "The Mighty"; co-starring and produced by Sharon Stone

Helmed the big-budget feature, "Town & Country" starring Warren Beatty, Diane Keaton and Goldie Hawn

Directed John Cusack and Kate Beckinsale in the romanic comedy, "Serendipity"

Directed Richard Gere and Susan Sarandon in "Shall We Dance," a remake of the classic Japanese ballroom dance film

Directed the film adaptation of the popular Disney series, "Hannah Montana: The Movie"