Andrew Scott Talks, 'Heated Rivalry,' Queer Joy and AIDS Stigma

Key Points:

• Andrew Scott premiered the film Elsinore at the 70th BFI London Film Festival, portraying the final weeks of actor Ian Charleson, who played Hamlet while battling AIDS in 1989. The premiere was emotionally charged, featuring real-life inspirations for characters and a poignant setting near the National Theatre.
• In a career-spanning discussion at BFI Southbank, Scott reflected on his diverse roles, including Moriarty in Sherlock and the Hot Priest in Fleabag, and shared insights on his upcoming projects and producing experience.
• Addressing queer representation in film, Scott welcomed joyful LGBTQ+ stories but defended the importance of narratives like Elsinore that confront the AIDS crisis, emphasizing that the shame lies with societal prejudice and government neglect, not with gay individuals.
• Scott praised the bravery and resilience of Ian Charleson, highlighting the physical and psychological toll of performing Hamlet while severely ill, and celebrated the strong support from the theater community during that era.
• Reflecting on his artistic influences, Scott credited his late mother for inspiring his passion for the arts and discussed his acting approach, favoring character immersion without over-reliance on backstory, allowing the audience to discover the character alongside him.