Renowned filmmaker Hansal Mehta, known for his intense dramas like “Shahid,” “Aligarh,” and “Faraaz,” is gearing up to explore new horizons in his directorial career. After the resounding success of “Scam 1992: The Harshad Mehta Story,” Mehta is now venturing into the series format with “Scoop,” a six-episode Netflix series inspired by journalist Jigna Vora’s memoir “Behind Bars in Byculla: My Days in Prison.”
While Mehta has primarily focused on contemporary issues in his previous works, he expressed a strong desire to delve into other genres such as romantic drama and musicals. However, he constantly feels the pressure of time, acknowledging the vast array of stories and genres that captivate his interest. The passion to embark on a filmmaking journey that provides him with a creative high remains his driving force, be it a comedy, a love story, or something entirely different.
“Scoop” promises to be an intriguing narrative set in the realm of the media industry, brimming with dreams, aspirations, and the complexities of reportage. Mehta collaborated with Mrunmayee Lagoo Waikul, the writer of “Thappad,” to develop a compelling screenplay that instantly caught his attention. Mehta consciously chose not to meet the real-life inspiration, Jigna Vora, as he wanted to present a fictionalized retelling of events, open to interpretation and uncolored by preconceived notions.
The series features Karishma Tanna in the lead role of Jagruti Pathak, a determined protagonist navigating the challenges and dangers of the media world. Mehta was captivated by Tanna’s hunger as an actor, which mirrored the character she portrays. In her audition, he witnessed a raw, relatable hunger to be noticed and respected, aligning perfectly with the essence of the character. Tanna’s arresting screen presence and powerful performance make her the centerpiece of the show.
Mehta’s approach to presenting controversial characters revolves around avoiding judgment and focusing on their humanity. He believes in showcasing their flaws without painting them solely in shades of black or white. By transcending labels and highlighting their struggles, Mehta aims to encourage audiences to see beyond profession, caste, or religion and connect with the characters on a human level.
As “Scoop” marks Mehta’s first collaboration with Karishma Tanna, audiences can anticipate a captivating blend of intense storytelling, powerful performances, and Mehta’s signature touch. Produced by Matchbox Shots and set to stream on Netflix from June 2, “Scoop” is poised to captivate viewers with its engaging narrative and thought-provoking exploration of the media industry.
Hansal Mehta’s relentless pursuit of compelling stories and his willingness to explore diverse genres continue to cement his position as a visionary filmmaker. With “Scoop,” he invites audiences on a journey that transcends boundaries and challenges conventional perceptions, offering a glimpse into the complexities of the human experience.