SPOTLIGHT: PHILLIP RAY TOMMY

AKA 'BIG PHIL'

ACTOR

FILMMAKER

FOUNDER:

AT PHRATO

ENTERTAINMENT

BIO:

Personal video Intro from Phil

Phillip Ray Tommy (a.k.a Big Phil) is an  exceptional actor, independent film maker, impressive stunt performer and

screen writer, living between Birmingham and London in the UK. He is the founder of film production company ‘Phrato Cimematic Arts’ from which he will be releasing his first feature film 'LOTUS'. He has become a recognisable presence both on screen and behind the camera. His performances span high-profile productions and gritty independent projects, showcasing a rare blend of stunt expertise and dramatic range. His upcoming feature, LOTUS, marks a major milestone in his evolution as a filmmaker, promising a fresh voice in UK action cinema.

SUMMARY:

Phillip Ray Tommy is a dynamic force in the UK film industry, known for seamlessly blending physical intensity with creative vision. With a background in stunt performance/acting across major productions like Thor: The Dark World, Gladiator 2, The Witcher, and Rise of the Footsoldier: Vengeance, he brings authenticity and grit to every role. Beyond the action, he's carving out his own path as an independent filmmaker, with his debut feature LOTUS—a Birmingham-based action thriller—set to premiere in 2025. Whether in front of the camera or behind it, Tommy’s work reflects a deep commitment to storytelling, discipline, and cinematic impact.

Q&A

DG Q: You've worked on some incredible blockbusters: Edge of Tomorrow, Thor, Gladiator 2, Expendables, just to name a few. And with your background in MMA, Taekwondo, boxing, wrestling, and close protection, it's clear those skills gave you a real edge in landing those high-octane roles. But with all that intense stunt work, did you ever have a moment on set where things got a bit too real?

PRT: Fortunately, I’ve been lucky to have worked mostly with great teams where safety is paramount. It’s so important to trust your co-ordinator and by extension everyone else around you. Be that the riggers or fellow stunt performers. Don’t get me wrong, there's always an element of risk but we do our best to minimise these as much as possible. 

DG Q:

You've built an impressive résumé  and now you're stepping into a new chapter with your debut feature film, LOTUS—a Birmingham-based action thriller set to premiere

later this year.  (Congratulations!) What sparked the idea for LOTUS, and for readers who might not be familiar, what’s the story about?

PRT:

I’ve always enjoyed writing scripts and have made several short films along the way. My experience making these served as a great education for what it would take to make Lotus. I learned from what aspects of film making and writing that I got wrong as well as the elements that I was successful with, and this has helped me steer Lotus in right direction. 

 Lotus follows the story of John, a betrayed ex–special forces operative who is dragged into Birmingham’s underworld, he must confront ruthless enemies and his own past in a fight to redeem himself and deal out justice to those who often escape consequences. 

DG Q: Alan McQueen, is the producer for LOTUS—a powerhouse with nearly 30 years of experience working with some of the UK’s most influential film companies. What led you to choose him your project, and how did that collaboration first come together? 

PRT: I worked with Alan on a film called Fixed a few years ago and we got on very well. He has a no-nonsense style of working and really knows his stuff so it was a no brainer. We met up at the Mockingbird Cinema, had a chat and the rest is history. 

DG Q: You’ve assembled an incredible cast for LOTUS—some real standouts in there. Can you tell us a bit about who they are, and what specific qualities you were looking for in your lead characters before making your casting decisions? 

PRT:

Chi Lewis Parry (centre) 28 years later

Phillip Ray Tommy & Chi Lewis Parry

The biggest star in Lotus is Chi Lewis Parry. We met many years ago on Edge of Tomorrow. His career has gone from strength to strength. Most recently he worked on 28 Years Later and also its sequel The Bone Temple which is coming out in January. He plays the character of Samson alongside Ralph Fiennes and is incredible in the role. So its truly an honour that he agreed to be in Lotus. His story arch spans 3 films (Lotus is a trilogy) so I’m excited to show the audience where this story goes. Everyone brought so much to their roles and I'm humbled when I think about their passion and skill for

the project. An extra special shout out to Oliver Mayo, Alina Tamara and Juice Aleem. They've been in almost all of my short films and always been supportive of what I’m trying to acheive. 

DG Q:

You recently teamed up with Danny Dyer on Marching Powder—a bold, unapologetically British geezer comedy-drama, classic Dyer style! I imagine the set was an absolute riot! Tell us about your character, Ziggy—what was it like working with Danny, and do you have any behind-the-scenes stories that gave everyone a good laugh? 

PRT: The one thing I remember about Danny was his humility. It was freezing when we filmed yet he’d still pop outside to his fans outside (there were many) and sign autographs, take photos etc. He’s also a grafter and not scared to get stuck in to help the production.  

DG Q: You’ve spent over two decades in the film and television industry, a seriously impressive journey. Looking back, is there a role that stands out as particularly profound or life-changing for you? What made it so impactful?" 

PRT:

Gangs of London was a big one for me. The show was phenomenal and it was exactly the kind of thing I like to see, but something that didn’t exist. Gritty substance filled drama (Written by Gareth Evans) insane action scenes (co-ordinated by Jude Poyer) and all set in the UK. Edge of Tomorrow was amazing as there was a lot of down time that

meant I was able to go to different departments and pick up as much knowledge as possible. I made so many great friends on that project. Cali Nelle is a super talented performer who has since gone on to be a fight co-ordinator in some huge productions, such as Loki, Napolean and Gladiator. Chi as mentioned earlier, is smashing it and doing huge things in the industry.

 There are many more examples but in short it was just an amazing experience that will always stay with me. 

DG Q:

You worked as a stunt performer on Thor: The Dark World—such a brilliant film, by the way. The action sequences looked seriously intense. How risky were the stunts you had to pull off, and was there ever a moment where you thought, 'Even I might be tested beyond my capabilities here'? 

PRT: I’m glad you mentioned this as I didn't actually work as a stunt performer on this. I was a picture double for the incredible Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje. A friend of mine updated my imdb but put it in the wrong section so it shows up that I was in the stunt team. I have message Imdb to see if it can be changed but as of yet it hasn’t been so I’m glad to be able to set the record straight here.

DG Q: You’ve achieved so much throughout your career, with an incredible list of accomplishments behind you. But is there still one dream or ambition that remains just out of reach—something you're still striving toward? 

PRT: I just want to make great art with people I like. I want to create my own section of the film industry in Birmingham and create films that are financially viable but also in line with what I want to see on screen. I have written many scripts and still have many more within me to come out. My friend and long-time collaborator Gary Roger is my DoP. He’s insanely talented and we bonded because of our desire to create what we love without any unnecessary bullshit. 

DG Q: Looking back on your extensive journey through film and television, what stands out as the most valuable lesson you've learned along the way? 

PRT: Belief. If I don’t believe in myself I cant expect anyone else to. I know what I want and how to get it and I know I’m going to get it no matter what obstacles appear. Once the right people see this they will join you in the quest for their own reasons that ultimately result in the same goal. Self beleif is everything. 

DG Q: Who were the pivotal figures or moments that sparked your filming journey, and what influences have most profoundly shaped your artistic direction? 

PRT:

In terms of action, it has to be Jean Claude Van Damme, Arnie, Sly, Jackie Chan... all of the action greats. In terms of stunts, any of the James Bond films I saw growing up. They all lit a fire inside me. And obviously before that performers like Buster Keaton an Harold Lloyd led the way. With film making, Robert Rodrifguez and his film El Mariachi had a huge impact. Seeing this and Desperado set me on the path I'm on now. 

DG Q: Once your film is completed, what’s next? 

PRT: Lotus 2 and 3. I also have the feature verison of my first short film called Cain and Abel that I want to make. 

DG Q:

As a judge for the 2025 REEL BRUM Film Festival, you’ve got a front-row seat to some incredible storytelling. When you're evaluating a film, what qualities truly stand out to you—and what makes a project rise above the rest? 

PRT: Can it keep my attention. Story is everything for me. I love substance in film and there were so many amazing films that I got to see. Massive shout out to Reel Brum. Lee, Cassie, Tash and the rest of the team are such an asset to the Birmingham film industry. 

DG Q: Stepping away from the business side of things for a moment, when you're not on set or working behind the scenes, what's one thing you genuinely love doing in your personal time? 

PRT: Spending time with my son is my favourite thing to do. Everything I do and the success I will attain is for him. So whether we are going on long walks, climbing trees or gaming, I'm in my element. When I’m not with my son I’m a bit of a hermit and spend a lot of my time writing or editing.  

DG Q: Is there a lesser-known facet of your life or personality that you’d be willing to reveal, something fans might be surprised to learn?" 

PRT: Not that I can think of to be honest :-)

DG Q: If you could offer one brutally, raw and unfiltered, honest piece of advice to emerging artists walking the same path, what would it be? 

PRT: Keep your bullshit-ometer at hand and ready. Many people may offer the world with no real means to make good on their offer. This just ends up wasting your time. So sift out all of those who may stunt your growth and progression. And remember just because it hasn’t been done, doesnt mean you won’t be the first to do it. 

DG Q : What’s one ‘no-BS’ truth you wish someone had told you when you were just starting out in the filming industry? 

PRT: A jobs never certain until you’re on set.  Again, going back to the previous question, there can be a lot of promises made left, right and centre but until you’re all physically on set you have to keep your eyes wide open. 

DG Q: Let’s finish strong: what’s one quote that hits you right in the soul and says, “This is me”? 

PRT: Focus determines reality. Work out what you want to do, work out how you’re gonna do it and attack the goal with ferocity. Keep fucking going and do not stop. It's all worth it in the end. 

LINKS: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/big_phill_tommy?igsh=enVobTliNmE1YTZv

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