Andrew Scott says films should keep addressing AIDS crisis and calls out governments

Andrew Scott has urged filmmakers to keep addressing the AIDS crisis, arguing that stories about darker chapters of LGBTQ history remain important despite the rise of more joyful queer films and television shows.

Speaking after the European premiere of Elsinore at the LONDON FILM FESTIVAL, Scott welcomed shows including Heartstopper and Heated Rivalry. However, he said he was troubled by reluctance to revisit periods when gay people faced discrimination and the AIDS crisis carried stigma.

Scott said that reluctance could come from shame, but stressed that shame should not be placed on gay people. He instead pointed towards governments that ignored the AIDS crisis and prejudice surrounding people living with HIV and AIDS.

“The shame lies with the governments who ignored the AIDS crisis and the stigma that was around people and the innate prejudice that was in society,” Scott said, according to Variety.

Elsinore, directed by Simon Stone and written by Stephen Beresford, centres on Scottish actor Ian Charleson, played by Scott. Charleson was known for Chariots of Fire and for playing Hamlet at the National Theatre.

In 1989, while living with complications from AIDS, Charleson replaced Daniel Day Lewis in the production after the actor left. Charleson received strong reviews for his performance but died seven weeks after bowing out.

Following the premiere, Scott brought real life figures depicted in the film onto the stage, including National Theatre staff members Linda Tolhurst and Ralph Mills, director Sean Mathias and HIV and AIDS consultant Dr Margaret Johnson.

Scott praised Johnson for her contribution to the development of treatment for people living with HIV and AIDS, calling her a “true life hero”.

Elsinore previously premiered at TELLURIDE FILM FESTIVAL and has received early reviews. Backed by Studiocanal, the film is expected during awards season as audiences revisit Charleson’s story today.