Andrew Scott discusses his roles as 'hot priest' in Fleabag and Tom Ripley in The Talented Mr. Ripley adaptation. He advocates for his characters, explores character complexity in adaptations, and delves into faith and emotional connection in acting. The podcast also touches on the twisted dynamics in Sherlock and the era of soundies in the 1940s.
Andrew Scott advocates for understanding characters without judgment, showcasing depth and complexity in his portrayals.
Scott's performances highlight the power of non-verbal expression, inviting audiences to connect with characters' inner turmoil.
Deep dives
Andrew Scott's Versatility as an Actor
Andrew Scott, known for his role as the hot priest in Fleabag and Moriarty in Sherlock, showcases his versatility in various roles from a charming priest to a cunning villain. Scott's ability to portray characters with depth and complexity, such as Tom Ripley in the new Netflix series Ripley, demonstrates his range as an actor. By delving into characters' intricacies and avoiding labels like sociopath, Scott advocates for understanding and not judging the characters he plays. His captivating performances reflect a deep understanding of human nature and the complexities of emotion.
Diving into Hidden Identities
Scott's portrayals resonate with themes of hidden identities and societal expectations. In Ripley, he embodies a conman suppressing his true self to assume a wealthy lifestyle, drawing parallels to Patricia Highsmith's own hidden identity. Scott's upbringing in Dublin during times when homosexuality was taboo provides insight into his nuanced portrayals of characters struggling with hidden aspects of themselves. Reflecting on the enigmatic nature of characters like Ripley, Scott explores themes of secrecy and self-discovery, inviting audiences to ponder the layers of human complexity.
Navigating Emotional Depths
Through roles like the burned-out lieutenant in 1917 and the screenwriter in All of Us Strangers, Scott adeptly conveys emotions without uttering a word, utilizing silence to communicate profound feelings. His performances highlight the power of non-verbal expression, allowing audiences to witness the depth of his characters' inner turmoil. By embracing moments of stillness and subtle gestures, Scott masterfully navigates the emotional landscapes of his roles, inviting viewers to connect with the unspoken layers of human experience.
Reviving Classic Shakespearean Themes
Scott's interpretation of Hamlet embodies a commitment to making Shakespearean language accessible and authentically engaging, challenging traditional perceptions of the iconic character. By infusing each word with meaning and taking deliberate pauses to convey Hamlet's introspection and uncertainty, Scott breathes new life into the timeless soliloquy. His approach to Shakespeare's works emphasizes the human experience and emotional depth, transcending language barriers to evoke universal themes of love, loss, and existential reflection.
Andrew Scott (best known as "hot priest" from Fleabag) plays con artist Tom Ripley in the Netflix adaptation of The Talented Mr. Ripley. He says his job is to advocate for his characters, not judge them. He spoke with Terry Gross about finding soul in comedy and lightness in drama.
Also, Lloyd Schwartz shares a little-known history of "soundies."