Brief
Andrew Scott urges films to keep confronting AIDS crisis at London Film Festival
The actor highlighted the need for darker LGBTQ stories and honored pioneering HIV/AIDS consultant Dr. Margaret Johnson.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Speaking after the European premiere of “Elsinore” at the BFI London Film Festival, Andrew Scott said movies should continue to address the AIDS crisis, arguing that shame lies with governments that ignored the epidemic.
Scott praised recent LGBTQ‑focused works such as “Heartstopper” and “Red, White & Royal Blue,” but warned that “people don’t want to go back to a time when you’re talking about the AIDS crisis… that sometimes comes from a place of shame.” He added, “the shame does not lie with gay people, it lies with the governments who ignored the AIDS crisis.”
During the event, Scott introduced real‑life figures portrayed in the film, including stage doorkeeper Linda Tolhurst, dresser Ralph Mills, director Sean Mathias and pioneering HIV/AIDS consultant Dr. Margaret Johnson, who received a standing ovation.
Key facts
- Andrew Scott spoke at the European premiere of “Elsinore” at the London Film Festival. (variety.com)
- Scott said the shame of the AIDS crisis lies with governments, not gay people. (variety.com)
- He honored Dr. Margaret Johnson, a pioneering HIV/AIDS consultant, with a standing ovation. (variety.com)
- Scott referenced recent LGBTQ‑focused media like “Heartstopper” and “Red, White & Royal Blue.” (variety.com)
Sources
- [1] variety.com — originally reported as “‘Elsinore’ Star Andrew Scott on Why Movies Should Still Tackle the AIDS Crisis: ‘The Shame Lies With the Governments Who Ignored’ It”
