Andrew Scott has come a long way since Sherlock. This instinctive theatrical actor who rose to fame for playing an archnemesis to an effortless Benedict Cumberbatch, comes to cinemas in 2024 thanks to NTLive and Vanya. A reinterpretation of the Anton Chekov play, that finds Alexander, an aging filmmaker withering away within the ruins of a country estate.
Ivan Vanya, the title character and Alexander’s biggest advocate has maintained this property for two decades, ensuring that the older man can pursue his passion for film. Other characters include Sonia, Alexander’s daughter from his first marriage who is besotted by Micheal, a local doctor, as well as Maureen and Liam who both work within the house itself.
With a stripped back set and the ingenious use of one wooden door Andrew Scott brings this cavalcade of characters to life over two hours. Morphing from one to another with a carefully curated combination of shifting vocal register, alternating posture, and just the slyest hint at gender fluidity they all come to life.
Through tears and tantrums, piano playing and perfectly poised postulation Vanya develops into something singular. Prying comedy from calamity and dragging drama from the darkness, Scott holds audiences in rapture making a mockery of human behaviour.
As infatuations and jealousies bubble up between these isolated individuals, who each harbour their resentments, this melodrama unfolds with all the intimacy only a one-man show can muster. Driven to tears in a single second, only for that outpouring of emotion to evaporate instantly, Scott draws blood from this theatrical stone mapping out the tragic course of events without once resorting to cliche or caricature.
Helena and Micheal are both drawn to one another yet feel compelled by duty to remain unfulfilled. Ivan is a ball of unfettered frustration living his life vicariously through the imagination of Alexander, who he blames for taking away any choices he might have made in another life.
A sense of wasted potential and senseless sacrifice permeates every corner of the stage, as slowly these characters unravel in front of an audience who remain riveted throughout. Blindsided by the overwhelming presence of universal truths about human nature upon which Vanya is built, there is an inevitability about the combined fates of these people that hits on a gut level.
This is what makes Vanya such an ideal play to watch on the big screen, where there is an opportunity to experience every character change on a moment by moment basis. For those who remain unconvinced by the greatness of Chekov, this may also represent an opportunity to re-evaluate a confirmed master at work. A playwright who observed our weakness, celebrated our strength, and yet remained unbiased in his judgements.
[Trailer courtesy of NTLive]
Vanya is released in selected cinemas from 22 February.
