Fassbender’s movie magic is award-worthy

Speaking exclusively to The Times the day after he saw his nephew star as Magneto in the new Xmen movie Days of Future Past, local man Mike Collins stated: “I took my son to see Xmen last night.

“To be honest, I’m not a big Xmen fan, but the movie I saw last night was brilliant.”

The most recent installation in the Xmen blockbuster franchise sees Xmen characters from the past and present unite to fight for the survival of their species.

Michael Fassbender has a special link to Larne, as his mother Adele is from the area and he regularly visited his grandparents at the town’s Wellington Parade during his childhood.

Michael was born in Germany, his father’s native land, before his family moved to Kilarney.

His uncle Mike recalled: “Michael would have been here on numerous occasions – Christmas, family get togethers.

“The last time he was in Larne would have been four years ago for my wedding reception at Ballygally castle.

“He always wanted to be an actor, since he was very young – since primary and secondary school he was always involved in some form of acting and drama.

“He was also a bit of a musician and played everything, including the guitar, which he still plays.”

Mike says that the family is very proud of their famous son, who worked ‘very, very hard‘ to make it in Hollywood.

He continued: “I thought he was brilliant in 12 Years A Slave and in Hunger.

“He has had some brilliant roles, but 12 Years A Slave is probably my favourite.

“When Michael works with Steve McQueen he seems to get very good results.

“For 12 Years A Slave he was nominated for a Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actor.

“So far he has been nominated for an Oscar, a Golden Globe and a BAFTA but he has missed out. It doesn’t bother him – he takes it in his stride. “I’m sure his time will come.”