Tom Blyth Embraces Indie Roots Alongside 'Hunger Games' Stardom

Despite his success in major blockbusters like "The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes," British actor Tom Blyth remains committed to independent filmmaking.

In Carmen Emmi's feature debut, "Plainclothes," Blyth portrays Lucas, an undercover cop in 1990s Syracuse who finds himself caught in a forbidden love affair with Andrew (Russell Tovey), one of his targets in a sting operation.

Blyth expresses his affinity for smaller-scale productions like "Plainclothes": "There's something incredibly refreshing about the rawness and authenticity of these films. It reminds me of why I became an actor in the first place."

"Plainclothes" premiered at the Sundance Film Festival on January 26th.

While Blyth acknowledges the possibility of a "Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes" sequel, he remains somewhat melancholic: "Rachel [Zegler] and I won't be in it because it takes place 45 years later. It's a bit sad, but I do miss everyone from the previous film."

Despite these sentiments, Blyth's dedication to both large-scale and independent projects remains unwavering.

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About the Script and Character

Blyth first encountered the "Plainclothes" script while filming his TV show in Calgary: "I read it and immediately knew I had to be a part of this project. Carmen flew to Canada and we had a fantastic meeting, which cemented our creative connection."

He was initially unaware of the sting operations the film depicts: "I was shocked when I learned how recently these practices existed. It's a reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality."

On-Screen Chemistry and Intimacy

Regarding his chemistry with Tovey, Blyth commends the work of intimacy coordinator Joey Massa: "Having an intimacy coordinator was incredibly valuable. It allowed us to create very intimate scenes in a safe and comfortable environment. We both felt confident and empowered to lead the choreography and make it feel natural."

Exclusive Content

Listen to the full conversation on the "Just for Variety" podcast.

Watch Tom Blyth's interview at the Variety Studio presented by Audible at Sundance.