JOE WRIGHT - WRIGHT DESPERATE TO CAST BURKE IN FILM

ATONEMENT director JOE WRIGHT is desperate to cast British actress KATHY BURKE in one of his films - because she is responsible for his success in the showbiz industry. The filmmaker was working as an extra in the 1985 drama Revolution when he met Burke, now 43. She encouraged him to chase his dream after he was bullied by other teenage actors on set. And now 36-year-old Wright is eager to repay the Nil By Mouth star for her kindness. He says, "She's been my mentor and best mate. She's the most brilliant, funny, smart, soulful, loveable, amazing person ever. She's my hero. I'd love to find her a good part, get her back acting again."