Russell T Davies, lauded writer and producer of ‘It’s A Sin’, is contemplating delving into a grittier, darker realm of LGBTQ+ narrative. Aware of the pervasive hostility in the present social climate, he feels impelled to express his concerns through his craft.
In a discourse at the Iris Prize – the foremost LGBTQ+ short film award on the globe – Davies communicated his trepidations regarding the current societal status. As the architect behind acclaimed productions like Queer as Folk and the revived Doctor Who series, Davies’ writings invariably circle back to the present.
“Undeniably, I have opinions to voice on our current state,” claims Davies. He believes his work, regardless of being historical as in ‘A Very English Scandal’, or futuristic like ‘Doctor Who’, inherently resonates with the contemporary.
In retrospect, Davies acknowledges crafting two significant pieces in his career – ‘Queer as Folk’ set in the 1999 social framework, and ‘Cucumber’, based in 2015. Now, as he finds himself approaching the twilight of his life, he yearns to write a third that mirrors the present.
There is an undercurrent of apprehension in Davies’ voice as he expresses alarm about our current world. Hatred is rampant, he observes, and there’s no paucity of fear mongers adding fuel to the fire, making for a charged, volatile atmosphere. “I intend to express my thoughts on this matter, and I believe it’s inevitable that I will,” states Davies.
In this age when representation is of acute importance, Davies accentuates the necessity to embed LGBTQ+ portrayal within the heart of storytelling. “Complacency is perilous,” warns Davies. “There’s ample work yet to be carried out.”
Years and Years, another of Davies’ contributions to the TV landscape, evidences his commitment to keeping his work relevant, to retain the flavor of the contemporary. “Work could turn outdated and lose touch with the present if you grow detached from the world,” he informed.
Although he wishes some contentious issues didn’t exist at all, Davies finds the relevance of gay rights and queer rights in news as something that keeps him alert. “When your topics are subject to constant political debate and media discussions, it keeps you abreast of the times and arguments,” Davies added. Maintaining relevance and addressing contemporary issues in his work, Davies continues to strive for representation and tackles social issues with keen insight and sensitivity.
