We’ve Got Details for the New Netflix Film About Prince Andrew

By: Sam Watanuki | Published: Feb 11, 2024

Netflix is set to captivate audiences with “Scoop,” a film that offers a deep dive into the 2019 interview that had everyone talking: Prince Andrew’s conversation with Emily Maitlis.

Unlike any typical dramatization, “Scoop” intricately explores the behind-the-scenes efforts that led to this momentous broadcast, offering viewers a glimpse into the meticulous preparation and challenges faced by the team.

Stars Behind the Characters

Gillian Anderson and Rufus Sewell step into the shoes of Emily Maitlis and Prince Andrew, bringing extraordinary depth to these well-known figures.

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Gillian Anderson and Rufus Sewell sitting and talking in Scoop

Source: Netflix

Anderson, known for her versatile acting skills, embraced Maitlis’ mannerisms and interviewing style, while Sewell underwent a remarkable physical transformation to embody the Duke of York. Their dedication to accurately portraying these real-life characters involved extensive research and preparation, showcasing their commitment to authenticity and detail (via The Telegraph).

The Art of Transformation

Rufus Sewell’s journey to become Prince Andrew is thanks to the magic of makeup and prosthetics (via The Sun). Spending three hours daily to apply a bald wig and facial adjustments, Sewell’s transformation goes beyond mere physical likeness, aiming to capture the duke’s essence and presence.

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Rufus Sewell in Scoop

Source: Netflix

This painstaking process highlights the film’s dedication to realism, ensuring that Sewell’s portrayal is as true to life as possible, allowing the audience to fully immerse in the narrative.

Gillian Anderson's Methodical Approach

Gillian Anderson’s approach to portraying Emily Maitlis is reportedly a blend of meticulous study and artistic intuition.

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Gillian Anderson in Scoop

Source: Netflix

Without the use of prosthetics, Anderson focused on embodying Maitlis through her mannerisms, speech patterns, and interviewing style, demonstrating a profound respect for the journalist’s craft.

The Women of Scoop

Scoop shines a spotlight on the influential women behind the infamous interview, including Sam McAlister, Amanda Thirsk, and Esme Wren (via Yahoo).

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Billie Piper in Scoop

Source: Netflix

Portrayed by a talented cast including Billie Piper, the film intends to celebrate these women’s resilience, intelligence, and determination.

Behind the Scenes with Sam McAlister

Sam McAlister, the real-life powerhouse behind the Prince Andrew interview, shared her experiences from the set of “Scoop” with The Telegraph.

Sam McAllister holding up newspaper

Source: Sam McAllister/X

Praising Gillian Anderson’s performance, McAlister highlighted the authenticity and dedication brought to the film. Her insights offer a unique perspective on the recreation of this journalistic milestone, emphasizing the importance of representation and accuracy in retelling such a major event.

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Director's Vision

Philip Martin, the director behind “Scoop,” shared his approach to bringing this complex story to the screen, as well.

Philip Martin arrives at the photocall of The Forger held during the 2014 Toronto International Film Festival - Day 9 on September 12, 2014

Source: Michael Tran/FilmMagic

Martin’s focus on balancing detailed accuracy with capturing the interview’s spirit reflects a deep understanding of the narrative’s nuances. His direction ensures that the film resonates with audiences, providing a thought-provoking look at the characters and their circumstances without passing judgment.

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Recreating Buckingham Palace

The recreation of the Buckingham Palace interview setting in “Scoop” is a feat of meticulous production design.

Buckingham Palace with a blue sky behind it and yellow and red flowers covering the lawn

Source: David Iliff/Wikimedia Commons

Every detail, from the furnishings to the lighting, was carefully replicated to match the original BBC interview’s atmosphere.

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Stephen Moffat's Script

Stephen Moffat’s script for “Scoop” attempts to skillfully navigate the fine line between drama and reality, presenting a narrative that is engaging yet respectful of the facts.

Steven Moffat talking at ComicCon

Source: Gage Skidmore/Wikimedia Commons

Moffat, known for his sharp writing, crafts a storyline that will hopefully allow viewers to draw their own conclusions about the events and characters portrayed.

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The Film's Tone

“Scoop” will seek to capture the surreal and serious aspects of the Prince Andrew interview with a unique tone that blends humor with gravity.

Black Camera Recorder shows playback of a film session

Source: Donald Tong/Pexels

This approach reflects the absurd elements of the original conversation while acknowledging the significant implications it had.

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Impact on Journalism

“Scoop” not only revisits a pivotal moment in recent journalistic history but also comments on the current state of investigative reporting.

Close-up image of a person's hand holding a pen and writing on a piece of paper on a wooden desk

Source: Scott Graham/Unsplash

The film will serve as a reminder of the critical role journalism plays in society and the challenges it faces in a changing media landscape.

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Anticipation for Release

As “Scoop prepares for its spring release, anticipation is building for what promises to be a compelling addition to Netflix’s catalog.

Two people watching Netflix on a laptop in bed

Source: ANUPRIYA

The film’s exploration of the Prince Andrew interview, combined with its focus on the journalistic endeavor behind it, will hopefully offer viewers a unique insight into a story that captured the world’s attention. With its talented cast, meticulous production, and thoughtful direction, “Scoop” is poised to become a significant conversation starter in discussions about media, royalty, and the search for truth.

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