Mrunmayee Lagoo Waikul, the talented writer behind the upcoming Netflix series “Scoop,” directed by Hansal Mehta, recently revealed that one of the biggest challenges she faced while penning the script was ensuring that the treatment of the story did not resemble other prison-set shows and movies.
Inspired by journalist Jigna Vora’s biographical book “Behind Bars in Byculla: My Days in Prison,” which chronicles her time behind bars after being accused of killing journalist J Dey in 2011 (later acquitted by court), “Scoop” aims to offer a fresh perspective on the lives of those caught in the criminal justice system. Mrunmayee, known for her co-writing work on the critically acclaimed film “Thappad,” shared her thoughts on the project in an interview with PTI.
“When I first read it, I felt this is set in a prison, how do we make it different from shows like ‘Orange is the New Black’ or films like ‘Ek Hasina Thi’? How do you break free from that mold?” Mrunmayee explained. Her primary concern was to find a unique approach that would distinguish “Scoop” from existing narratives centered around incarceration.
Understanding that her story predominantly focused on the lives of undertrial prisoners, Mrunmayee embarked on the challenge of presenting their experiences in a fresh and compelling manner. By delving into the intricacies of their daily lives, emotions, and struggles, she aimed to bring a new perspective to the prison genre.
The series “Scoop” will not only explore the physical and emotional hardships faced by the undertrials but will also shed light on the social and political dynamics within the prison system. Through a gripping narrative, the show endeavors to highlight the complexities of the characters, their relationships, and their pursuit of justice amidst an unforgiving environment.
With Hansal Mehta at the helm of the project, known for his thought-provoking and socially relevant films like “Shahid” and “Aligarh,” “Scoop” promises to offer a compelling and authentic portrayal of prison life in India. Mehta’s distinctive directorial style, combined with Mrunmayee’s nuanced writing, is expected to deliver a series that stands apart from its counterparts.
While the challenges of differentiating “Scoop” from existing prison-based shows and films were daunting, Mrunmayee’s commitment to crafting a unique narrative allowed her to overcome those obstacles. By placing a strong emphasis on the experiences of undertrials and exploring their journeys with depth and sensitivity, the series aims to captivate viewers and offer a fresh perspective on the prison genre.
As anticipation grows for the release of “Scoop,” audiences can look forward to a thought-provoking and immersive experience that ventures beyond stereotypes and delivers a story that is both engaging and socially relevant. With its focus on undertrials and their fight for justice, the series aspires to make a lasting impact and leave an indelible mark on viewers’ minds.
