Tom Cullen on the Nuances of Portraying LGBT Characters

British actor Tom Cullen has taken on yet another deeply complex role in the mystery-thriller film “Black Church Bay.” Premiering at the recent Iris Prize Festival, the film sees Cullen play Barry, a closeted gay man whose world begins to crumble following an intense encounter with a younger person. This role is not Cullen’s first portrayal of a gay character. His involvement in LGBT projects began with the 2011 romantic drama “Weekend,” which was widely praised.

When discussing his portrayal of Barry, Cullen emphasized the importance of approaching his character with the same commitment and empathy he would bring to any role. “Characters, regardless of their sexual orientation, deserve the same depth of empathy and understanding in their portrayal,” he noted. This method mirrors his preparation for previous roles, where speaking to friends within the LGBT community helped inform his approach.

The Significance of the Iris Prize Festival

The Iris Prize Festival, which has just celebrated its two-decade milestone, took place in Cardiff. Known for bringing diverse LGBT stories to the forefront, the festival has become a pivotal platform for artists worldwide. Cullen highlighted the significance of representation, pointing out how diverse narratives across queer cinema can influence societal perceptions.

Filming in the Heart of Wales

“Black Church Bay,” directed by Welsh-Irish filmmaker Rhys Marc Jones, was largely filmed on location in Anglesey. Jones drew inspiration from the real locations, contributing to the film’s eerie yet enchanting atmosphere. “It’s about a fantasy that slowly turns into a nightmare,” said Jones, noting how Anglesey’s majestic yet haunting landscapes fit the film’s requirements perfectly.

Cullen, who balanced shooting commitments between this project and the popular series “House of the Dragon,” expressed his excitement about filming in Wales. Cullen noted the personal connection as someone familiar with the region due to holidays and time spent during his youth.

Collaboration and Companionship

The film also stars Joe Locke, known for his role in Netflix’s “Heartstopper.” Both actors shared mutual admiration for each other’s work, which enriched their on-set partnership. Cullen shared that the filming process with Locke was made all the more enjoyable due to their strong rapport, saying, “We had each other’s backs every step of the way.”

Locke, a native of the Isle of Man, found Anglesey reminiscent of home, from the small-town dynamics to the scenic landscapes. Both actors expressed that the unique setting added a distinctive element to the film’s atmosphere, reinforcing its themes and storyline.

Photo by Addy Spartacus on Unsplash