Directed by Philip Martin, Scoop is currently available for streaming on Netflix, boasting an impressive cast including Gillian Anderson, Billie Piper, Rufus Sewell, Keeley Hawes, and Connor Swindells, alongside several other talented supporting actors. Despite the star-studded lineup and commendable performances, Scoop falls short of delivering the exhilaration one might expect given its promising premise.
Netflix had the chance to showcase a dramatized version of Prince Andrew’s infamous interview with BBC, where he shed light on his friendship with none other than convincted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, who has been remembered far from fondly even after his death. Nevertheless, here are some of our thoughts on Scoop, which will help you decide whether you should stream it or skip it!
Billie Piper Shines Through in Scoop
Gillian Anderson and Rufus Sewell both delivered excellent performances in Netflix’s latest movie, Scoop. Anderson seldom leaves any room for error, and time and again proves exactly why she is a fan-favorite and loved by all.
Of course, Sewell had one of the most important roles to play in Scoop, and his transformation into Prince Andrew, along with the little quirks and mannerisms surely stood out. However, for us, the star of the show was none other than Billie Piper.
For most people, Piper has been known for her performance in the beloved sci-fi series, Doctor Who, albeit, Scoop might just change that for Piper. Sharing a screen with the likes of Anderson and Sewell, and still managing to stand out is truly commendable, and Piper did exactly that. While there is not a lot going on in Scoop, at least Piper’s presence will make you want to finish the movie.
While we understand that Scoop wasn’t just about the interview but also included a dramatized version of everything that went on behind the scenes, along with the aftermath, it all felt like a cumulation of…nothing.
If you were prepared to be wowed or swept off your feet with some high-intensity newsroom drama, then Scoop simply isn’t the place to be. The first hour of the movie simply feels like a waste of time, and the only remotely interesting part was the aftermath of the interview.
While it’s understandable that Scoop and Netflix might have faced constraints regarding the portrayal of figures like Prince Andrew and Jeffery Epstein, as well as the sensitive subject of their victims, such limitations shouldn’t have hindered the development of character arcs for Emily Maitlis and Sam McAlister. Unfortunately, Scoop leaves far too much unexplored, with significant areas feeling underdeveloped.
Conclusion
Netflix currently has several movies and tv series being released every day, and to be able to really hit the high numbers, one needs to stand out, and for us, Scoop did not manage that. If you have watched Scoop, do let us know in the comments what you thought about it!
