Edward Burns Revisits Valley Stream for ‘Brothers McMullen’ Sequel
Renowned filmmaker Edward Burns is returning to his roots with the sequel to his indie hit, “The Brothers McMullen.” Set to debut on HBO Max on December 5, the new film is titled “The Family McMullen.” This follow-up marks nearly three decades since the original, filmed in Burns’ childhood home in Valley Stream, New York.
Edward Burns and Valley Stream
The light gray house on Marlboro Road, once used as a backdrop for “The Brothers McMullen,” has undergone minor changes, now featuring a yellow-green paint. However, much of its charm remains intact. Burns reflected on his upbringing at this modest four-bedroom residence, where he spent countless hours with his brothers.
About “The Family McMullen”
The sequel follows Barry McMullen, portrayed by Burns himself, who evolves into a single father managing his adult children, Patty and Tommy. Patrick, played again by Mike McGlone, adds comic relief as he shares a spare room in Barry’s household. The emotional narrative takes a poignant turn with the passing of their brother Jack. Widowed Molly, played by Connie Britton, is faced with the task of selling the family home.
- Release Date: December 5 on HBO Max
- Budget: $12.5 million
- Original Film Cost: $25,000
The Journey of Edward Burns
Burns’ cinematic journey began in the early 1990s when he drew inspiration from an English teacher and a college film class. He crafted “The Brothers McMullen” after raising $10,000 from friends and family. The film, which took just 12 days to shoot, went on to win the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival.
Notable Collaborations and Projects
Throughout his career, Burns has worked with notable actors like Jennifer Aniston, Cameron Diaz, and Angelina Jolie, carving out a niche in both directing and acting. Although his ventures as an actor faced mixed success, Burns expressed a desire to return to directing smaller, personal films. This led to projects like “Newlyweds” and more recent works like “Millers in Marriage.”
Making the Sequel
The idea for “The Family McMullen” emerged when Burns contemplated the impact of growing family dynamics. Inspired by Richard Linklater’s “Before Midnight,” he recognized the potential for a modern narrative exploring relationships and family ties.
This sequel features returning actors such as Connie Britton and new faces like Tracee Ellis Ross and Brian d’Arcy James. Burns also reunited with composer Seamus Egan to lend the film its signature sound.
Filming in Nostalgic Locations
Much of the film was shot in Windsor Terrace, Brooklyn, maintaining a connection to Burns’ Irish-American roots. The original family home provided a nostalgic backdrop for the film, allowing Burns to revisit the space that shaped his early career. Despite the years, he found comfort in seeing the familiar interior, remarking on its unchanged decor.
“The Family McMullen” represents a full-circle moment for Edward Burns, intertwining his past with his present storytelling. This heartfelt sequel promises to echo the charm of its predecessor while exploring new familial themes in today’s world.
