Andrew Scott discusses his dark role in Ripley and the 'hot priest' in Fleabag. The podcast also explores the gendered history of cars, highlighting biases against women drivers and how cars are designed for male bodies. It includes a review of Lionel Shriver's novel and insights into women's experiences in the car sales industry.
Andrew Scott excels in portraying diverse characters like the Hot Priest in Fleabag and a sociopathic con man in Ripley.
The podcast discusses the gendered nature of cars and how they were marketed to women, despite being designed for male bodies, putting women drivers at risk.
Deep dives
Andrew Scott's Versatility as an Actor
Andrew Scott, known for his roles in Fleabag and Sherlock, showcases his versatility by playing characters like the Hot Priest torn between love and faith in Fleabag and a sociopathic con man in the Netflix series Ripley. Despite his varied roles, Scott's magnetic and subtle acting style shines through, earning him recognition and awards for his performances.
Tom Ripley: An Intriguing Sociopath
Scott's portrayal of Tom Ripley in the Netflix series Ripley delves into the complex character dynamics of a con man with no conscience, akin to a sociopath seeking wealth and luxury through deception. Scott's approach to the role involves understanding Ripley's mind without labeling him, inviting the audience to explore his inner complexities and choices.
Exploring Identity and Concealment in Ripley
In Ripley, the theme of hiding one's identity resonates both in the character's narrative and author Patricia Heismith's personal experiences. Andrew Scott's portrayal of Ripley reflects a fusion of secrecy and inner struggles, echoing the societal norms of concealment prevalent during Heismith's era, where aspects like sexuality were coded and discussed discreetly.
The Evocative Black and White Cinematography in Ripley
The Netflix series Ripley, shot in black and white, offers a visually stunning portrayal of the story. The meticulous attention given to lighting, composition, and cinematography adds depth and intrigue to the narrative. The unique aesthetic choices create a compelling atmosphere, reflecting the character's isolation and the overall tone of the series.
Andrew Scott stars as a con artist with no conscience in the new Netflix series Ripley. It's an adaptation of the Patricia Highsmith novel The Talented Mr. Ripley. He spoke with Terry Gross about tapping into his darker side for the role — and playing the "hot priest" in Fleabag.
Also, we hear about how cars became our most gendered technology. Women used to be considered unqualified to drive, or just terrible drivers. Glamorous women were used to advertise cars. And yet cars have been designed for male bodies, in ways that put women drivers at risk. Journalist Nancy Nichols is the author of Women Behind the Wheel.