Tom Blyth’s Intense Romance Scenes in Sundance Film Plainclothes Get Praise from Co-Star Russell Tovey

This year’s Sundance Film Festival showcased numerous films that embraced an exuberant celebration of LGBTQ+ lives. However, Plainclothes stands out by taking a more somber yet profound approach. Created by filmmaker Carmen Emmi, this poignant period piece delves into the life of an undercover cop, tasked with seducing and arresting gay men during an era where minority rights are increasingly under threat in the U. S.The film stars Tom Blyth, widely recognized for his role in the The Hunger Games prequel, as Lucas, a character grappling with his burgeoning attraction to men, especially after encountering Andrew (Russell Tovey).

From their first meeting, it becomes evident that Lucas perceives Andrew as more than just a target for his assignment. Throughout Plainclothes, their relationship unfolds amidst a backdrop of paranoia over their secret lives and an exhilarating delight in the prospect of freedom. Yet, Lucas faces more than career complications; he is also burdened by the emotional weight of not being able to confide in his grieving mother following his father’s death. Andrew, too, has his reasons for keeping their romance hidden, culminating in a mounting tension in their illicit encounters.

In an engaging interview with ScreenRant, the cast members—Russell Tovey, Maria Dizzia, Amy Forsyth, and Alessandra Ford Balazs—along with producer Colby Cote, shared their thoughts on their experiences working on the film. A notable absence was Tom Blyth, who was in Senegal filming The Cry of the Guards. The cast unanimously praised Blyth’s performance while highlighting Emmi’s fervor in crafting the narrative. Several actors also provided updates on their current projects, including a spinoff of Doctor Who and the upcoming third season of The Gilded Age.

Russell Tovey & Tom Blyth’s Kinship on Set

Tom Blyth and Russell Tovey lying down in Plainclothes

ScreenRant: Reviewers are celebrating the chemistry between you and Tom Blyth. Could you share how you built that profound relationship on screen?

Russell Tovey: Tom is an outstanding actor. We both share a passion for storytelling and acting. From the start, we understood that we needed to fully commit to our roles.

The intimacy captured in our scenes requires a lot of vulnerability. Tom is an incredibly open and expressive individual, which made our collaboration even more engaging. I consider myself an open book, sometimes too much so in my personal life, but we genuinely wanted to make this work and honor the script. It truly is a magical film.

Scenes between Blyth and Tovey are charged with unexpected intensity, revealing feelings neither character anticipated. The quick pace of their romance is largely attributed to the unique storytelling style of director Carmen Emmi, who employed hidden cameras to enhance the tension in specific scenes.

Set in the 1990s, Tovey believes that the film’s relevance resonates even more strongly today. Various recent legislative actions have instilled fear within LGBTQ+ communities across the globe, a sentiment expertly captured in Emmi’s screenplay. Despite acknowledging this context, Tovey felt nothing but joy while collaborating with the first-time director.

Working with Carmen was a true privilege. From the very first moment, we’d find ourselves laughing like schoolchildren, but then we’d dive into the work. He is incredibly talented, and working alongside him has been a joyful experience throughout Sundance and the media rounds.

Tovey also expressed excitement about collaborating with Russell T. Davies, returning to helm the new series of Doctor Who. Having previously portrayed Alonso Frame in the 2017 Christmas special, he is now set to star in The War Between the Land and the Sea, though details about his new character remain under wraps.

Russell Tovey: My greatest privilege has been the chance to work again with Russell T. Davies, whom I consider a hero. I originally worked with him on Doctor Who, and again in Years and Years, where I played Daniel Lyons. Returning now for The War Between the Land and the Sea has been incredible.

Each day on set proved to be exciting and rewarding, and I believe audiences will be thrilled by the final product.

Maria Dizzia Explores Her Mother-Son Relationship with Tom Blyth

Discussing a Different Mother-Son Dynamic in Agatha All Along

Rebecca kissing William in Agatha All Along Episode 6 — Image via Disney+

Maria Dizzia portrays Marie, Lucas’ supportive mother, who ironically remains unaware of her son’s sexuality. She articulated the complexity of their relationship, illustrating how mutual affection exists alongside a significant divide created by secrets:

Maria Dizzia: A critical aspect of Marie’s character is that there is so much about her son that remains unknown to her. Although they share a tight-knit bond and she provides unwavering support, a chasm of secrets separates them.

When we first met during rehearsal, we practiced a dance together, and it was easy to develop a maternal affection for him. Tom is an incredibly receptive actor—tender yet playful—making it enjoyable to work with him.

From the outset, it was clear how much he cared, and his passion illuminated every scene we were in together.

ScreenRant: As this is Carmen’s debut feature film, how did it feel to witness his growth as a director while collaborating on this project?

Maria Dizzia: Working alongside Carmen has been a beautiful experience. He is both exceptionally humble and assertively in charge. It’s a rare combination to lead with such gentle authority, and he managed it with remarkable ease.

Carmen adapted quickly during filming, demonstrating impressive problem-solving abilities as challenges arose. I felt immense pride as I watched him navigate these obstacles.

Dizzia recently played another mother unaware of her child’s secret, portraying Rebecca Kaplan in Agatha All Along. In the series, after her son’s tragic car accident, his body is inhabiting the spirit of Wanda Maximoff’s son, Billy, a fact unknown until the season’s end.

While grateful for her son’s second chance at life, Rebecca senses that Billy isn’t quite who he appears to be. Dizzia reflected on how a mother’s instinct might guide Rebecca’s feelings:

Maria Dizzia: I believe she would still want to keep him. While she undoubtedly would mourn the loss of her biological son, there are many aspects in which her new son, though altered, would be a gift. It feels like the universe has provided her with something extraordinary, so I don’t think she would turn him away.

Amy Forsyth Finds Inspiration in Director Carmen Emmi’s Unique Vision

Forsyth Discusses the Limited Presence of Carrie Astor in The Gilded Age Season 4

In Plainclothes, Amy Forsyth takes on the role of Emily, Lucas’ ex-fiancée. Their relationship is particularly compelling, showcasing a deep affection that is complicated by Lucas’s inability to share his true feelings with her. Forsyth expressed her admiration for Blyth, declaring, “I adore him, ” while emphasizing the warmth of their real-life dynamic.

Forsyth commended Blyth’s impressive performance, hinting that the film will showcase a different layer to his character, alongside an endearing side that emerged during their time working together:

Amy Forsyth: The world knows a version of Tom, but I feel fortunate to have met the real person. He was incredibly warm and inviting, eager to delve into character discussions and building our rapport. We bonded over music, crafted playlists together, and sang—he’s become a genuinely delightful friend.

ScreenRant: As this marks Carmen’s debut direction, how did his passion influence your collaboration?

Amy Forsyth: I find it astounding this is his debut. From the moment I read the script, I recognized his strong voice. On set, he remained unwavering in his vision while facilitating collaboration. Carmen leads with grace and passion; he knows precisely what he wants while creating a welcoming environment.

Observing his calm confidence is inspiring, especially for someone like me who aspires to direct in the future.

Forsyth has also been seen in HBO’s The Gilded Age, where she portrays Carrie Astor. Despite her character’s significance, she noted that she won’t appear in every episode, providing fans with insight into her reduced presence in the forthcoming third season:

Amy Forsyth: Yes, I’ll be there! I was also managing some concurrent commitments, specifically a show on Broadway, which limited my availability. However, I assure you that viewers will meet new family members in my storyline.

Discover More About Plainclothes (2025)

In Plainclothes, a dedicated undercover officer, responsible for entrapment and arrest of gay men, finds himself defying orders as he falls in love with one of his targets.

For more from Sundance 2025, check out additional interview coverage, including: