As a seasoned gamer who has seen his fair share of spy series, I can wholeheartedly say that Slow Horses on Apple TV+ is a breath of fresh air. The show, with its witty banter and intricate plotlines, has been consistently engaging since its debut in 2022. The dynamic between Jackson Lamb (played brilliantly by Gary Oldman) and Diana Taverner (Kristin Scott Thomas) is a highlight, their respect-hate relationship adding depth to the narrative.
The quirky and humorous anti-spy series “Slow Horses,” streaming on Apple TV+, has consistently delighted its niche fanbase since filming began for the first episode, according to showrunner Will Smith. Debuting in 2022, this British production stars Oscar winner Gary Oldman as the rough and unkempt Jackson Lamb, leading a team of discredited MI5 agents who manage to complete their missions despite their tattered and makeshift methods. In the season finale of the third season, Oldman interacts with Kristin Scott Thomas’ character, MI5 deputy director general Diana Taverner, in a scene that has become a recurring motif for the series. They dance around each other, providing glimpses into their characters and offering insights as they reflect on the actions that have led them to where they are, preparing for the upcoming season.
In their long-standing work relationship, Lamb and Taverner share a complex dynamic of respect and animosity. Each season concludes with a recurring argument scene between them, yet Will Smith sought to prevent this pattern from growing repetitive. As he explains, “In seasons one and two, we always had them meet on the bench by Regent’s Canal. However, in the final episode, the bench is missing because that’s part of TV – it must be consistent but also new.” He simply wanted to add a twist to keep things interesting, and found the idea amusing.
Following an exhilarating finale filled with gunfights, confrontations, and explosions, it was essential for the series to pause and delve into the impact these events had on the characters. As Smith puts it, “I relish the aftermath just as much as the action, for I yearn to see how it’s reshaped the characters, their future paths, and where everything has settled.” “I appreciate every facet of the show,” he continues, “but what truly drives it are the characters. And with such a remarkable cast at our disposal, I trust each moment of the series completely.”
Despite being an exceptional undercover agent, Bill (Lamb) has a tendency to be harsh and unfriendly, yet Gary Oldman portrays him with a hint of compassion that shines through. Following an argument with Catherine Standish (Saskia Reeves), a person he’s had a long history with who’s been abducted, this scene unfolds. “We understand how significant Catherine is to Bill, and I have my own ideas about what that significance represents, but he’s merely pretending not to care and concealing his pain in humor,” Smith explains.
“Lamb’s personality now includes a fondness for eating. A distinct memory from that scene is Gary consuming twelve ice creams, which leaves me with a sense of guilt.”
In the final scene, Oldman’s Lamb gestures to offer Taverner a bite of ice cream. She simply steps away from him in a moment that underscores how comfortable the two actors are playing off each other. “It’s two actors walking and talking, but it could be as electric as a shootout or a car chase,” Smith says. “They’ve got everything. It’s the rhythms, the looks, the energy. It is just sublime watching them.”
At first, the line didn’t seem like a logical development for Kristin Scott Thomas, according to Smith. Kristin, who is both intelligent and perceptive, noted that “happiness” hadn’t been properly set up in the script. This lack of precedent made the “happiness” line feel unexpected. To address this issue, they decided to incorporate the concept of happiness into Lamb’s dialogue. Consequently, the scene likely included Lamb saying, “It’s you in the hot seat now, doesn’t that make you happy? All responsibility lies with you,” which then led to her response.
The TV series Slow Horses revolves around a group of flawed, discontent individuals who have been demoted and assigned to MI5’s outcast division, causing them distress. Despite being renewed for a fourth season airing in September and a potential fifth season, the third season concludes with an ending that could serve as a fitting finale if these characters are not seen again on screen. The showrunner expresses satisfaction with the last line, stating, “I’m English, so it’s hard for me to say this, but what I’m proud of about that final line is that it’s both a joke and an undeniably conclusive moment for the scene – you can sense the end of the season. If I had to choose a line that encapsulates the series, it would likely be that one.”
Initially, this tale was published in a solo edition of The Hollywood Reporter’s magazine, which came out in August. If you’d like to get hold of the magazine, consider subscribing by clicking here.
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2024-08-10 00:26