Get ready for an exclusive scoop! Andrew Scott, the actor who has captivated audiences worldwide, is about to reveal the inspiration behind his latest role. But this isn't just any role; it's a character that delves into the depths of a 24-year partnership, a partnership that shaped the course of musical history.
Scott, the versatile actor known for his iconic roles in Sherlock, Fleabag, and Netflix's Ripley, is taking on a new challenge in Richard Linklater's Blue Moon. In this biographical comedy-drama, he portrays Richard Rodgers, the legendary composer who, on the night of the premiere of Oklahoma!, is about to embark on a new creative journey with Oscar Hammerstein II.
But here's where it gets intriguing: Oklahoma! marked the end of Rodgers' collaboration with Lorenz "Larry" Hart, his lyricist partner for over two decades. Together, they created an incredible body of work, including The King and I and Carousel, and their most renowned masterpiece, The Sound of Music. Yet, what happens to the artist left behind when a partnership ends?
"This is a break-up movie," Scott reveals in an exclusive interview with HELLO! at the headline gala screening of Blue Moon at the BFI London Film Festival. "It's a creative break-up, but one that leaves an indelible mark on both parties."
The film focuses on that very night, capturing the emotions of Larry Hart as he witnesses the beginning of a new era for his former partner. Andrew Scott elaborates, "These two men shared an incredible intimacy, having written over a thousand songs together. It's a story of two beginnings and an end."
Richard Linklater, the director, adds a poignant note, "It's a sad reality that artists often believe their talent will endure forever, but life has a way of surprising us. Sometimes, we're left behind by the times."
Blue Moon premiered in the UK during the BFI London Film Festival and will have a wide release across the country on November 28th.
So, what do you think? Does art truly outlive its creators, or is it the relationships and partnerships that give it life? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!