Peter Straughan

Biography

Peter Straughan is an acclaimed British screenwriter and playwright, best known for his work on a range of intelligent, character-driven films. He was born in 1968 in the United Kingdom and hails from the town of Newcastle upon Tyne. With a background in literature and theater, Straughan began his career writing plays before transitioning to film and television. He is widely praised for his nuanced screenplays and his adept skill at adapting complex source material.

Career Beginnings and Breakthrough

Straughan first made a name for himself in the theater world, writing plays for the Northern Stage and other regional venues. He soon moved into screenwriting, and his early work included the black comedy Mrs. Ratcliffe's Revolution (2007) and How to Lose Friends & Alienate People (2008), a satirical look at celebrity journalism.

However, Straughan’s breakthrough came with The Men Who Stare at Goats (2009), an offbeat satire starring George Clooney, based on Jon Ronson’s book. The film showcased Straughan’s ability to blend dark humor with socio-political commentary.

Critical Acclaim: Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy and Beyond

In 2011, Peter Straughan co-wrote the screenplay for Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy alongside his late wife, Bridget O'Connor. The film, an adaptation of John le Carré’s classic Cold War spy novel, received widespread acclaim and earned the writing duo an Academy Award nomination for Best Adapted Screenplay, as well as a BAFTA Award.

Straughan followed up with Frank (2014), a quirky comedy-drama inspired by the life of musician Frank Sidebottom, and The Snowman (2017), an adaptation of Jo Nesbø’s crime novel. While The Snowman received mixed reviews, Straughan's screenplay was noted for its effort to bring coherence to a troubled production.

He also wrote the screenplays for Our Brand Is Crisis (2015), starring Sandra Bullock, and The Goldfinch (2019), based on Donna Tartt’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel.

Personal Life

Peter Straughan was married to fellow writer Bridget O’Connor until her untimely death in 2010. Their creative collaboration on Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy remains one of his most celebrated achievements. He is known for his low-profile personal life and commitment to thoughtful storytelling over celebrity.