For the film adaptation of '' The Van '' , Doyle and Myles formed their own production company , Deadly Films , and the author was given creative control over the selection of its cast and director . Frears returned as director , and Meaney was cast in the lead role . Although '' The Van '' ( 1996 ) premiered at the 1996 Cannes Film Festival to some favorable reviews , critical reaction was negative upon release ; reviewers criticized the film for its thin material and lack of strong characterization
1996 Cannes Film Festival
1996 Cannes Film Festival
The Commitments (film)