Set in the early 1960s , '' The Butcher Boy '' is about Francie Brady ( Eamonn Owens ) , a 12-year-old boy who retreats into a violent fantasy world to escape the reality of his dysfunctional family ; as his circumstances worsen , his sanity deteriorates and he begins acting out , with increasing brutality . The film won the Silver Bear for Best Director at the 48th Berlin International Film Festival in 1998 and a Special Mention for Owens " astonishing lead " . It also won the European Film Award for Best Cinematographer for Adrian Biddle . '' The Butcher Boy '' is Neil Jordan 's tenth feature film and Geffen Pictures ' final production
48th Berlin International Film Festival
48th Berlin International Film Festival
The Butcher Boy (1997 film)