Kermode & Mayo’s Take
Now and Ben: Steven Knight on ‘Maria’, his screenwriting secrets, the Peaky Blinders movie & more
Jan 13, 2025
Stephen Knight, a legendary film and TV writer known for works like Peaky Blinders and Locke, joins Ben Bailey Smith for a deep dive into his illustrious career. They discuss Knight's latest biopic, Maria, exploring the creative process and its themes of self-reflection. The conversation also touches on how his humble beginnings in comedy shaped his writing style. Plus, he spills some exciting gossip about the anticipated Peaky Blinders movie, making this a must-listen for fans of his storytelling!
40:25
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Quick takeaways
- Stephen Knight reflects on his transition from comedy to drama, highlighting the distinct audience perceptions that shaped his screenwriting evolution.
- In his latest film 'Maria', Knight explores the complexities of identity and personal struggle through a narrative that intertwines reality and fantasy, revealing vulnerabilities beneath fame.
Deep dives
The Journey from Comedy to Drama
Stephen Knight shares his humble beginnings in comedy and the daunting challenges of making audiences laugh consistently. He recalls how working with established comedians like Jasper Carrot allowed him to enhance his writing and understand the intricate psychology of performance. This experience transitioned into his foray into drama, igniting a desire to explore deeper narratives. Knight reflects on his initial inexperience when shifting to writing screenplays, realizing the significant differences in audience perception between comedy and drama.
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