PE Tommy Jessop Stars in the Thriller Innocence

Plain English

The Film Innocence

A man falls to his death in a care home. Two brothers are possible suspects. One of them lives at the home. The other brother works at the home. Who do you think is the killer?

Watch the thriller film Innocence to find out.

Tommy Jessop plays the lead role in the film Innocence.

He did an interview with Easy to Read Magazine via email.

Tommy, since when have you been working as an actor?

My first role as a professional actor was 16 years ago. I played a person called Adam who wanted to get a job as a chef and he needed a plan. Next I had a very exciting role on TV. It was the first real highlight of my career so far. I played Ben in Coming Down the Mountain which was a film on BBC1.

What attracted you to a career as an actor?

I like to make the audience laugh and cry.

 How did you get your first film part?

I went to about six auditions for the same role, but it was worth it.

In your latest film Innocence, you play the lead, Dylan. 

Without revealing too much about the plot, how would you describe Dylan? 

Dylan is a powerful and emotional person to play. He’s quite crafty. He plans ahead.

What attracted you to the role?

I like playing strong and emotional characters. The movie has some brilliant dramatic scenes. The story also sends out a powerful message.

How do you prepare for a role?

Researching the background by going through the script. I find out more about the character, how he is feeling, what has been happening. I know my lines by heart and tend to know other people’s lines too. I have early nights when filming. I eat healthily and have an exercise routine to keep fit and strong.

How does it feel when you see yourself in the first viewing of a film?

I look forward to seeing myself, but it can be overwhelming and embarrassing.

Which is your favorite movies?

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2
Giri Haji
Fantastic Beasts and Where To Find Them
Star Wars – The Rise of Skywalker
James Bond films
Johnny English

Which are your favorite TV shows?

I enjoy watching amazing competitors show what they can do.

The BAFTA Elevate 2019 initiative supported actors from groups who are under-represented in films.

What was the most valuable experience you took away from the program?

 It’s been brilliant meeting everyone from casting directors to directors, writers and executive producers. I’ve learnt more about preparing for auditions and had some great one to one meetings.

Which 5 guests would you invite to a dinner party?

Spanish tennis player Rafa Nadal
English playwright, poet and actor William Shakespeare A playwright is a person who writes plays for the stage.
English screenwriter and playwright Jack Thorne A screenwriter writes the script for films - the words that the actors speak.
English actor, theatre director and playwright Mark Rylance
English actor Eddy Redmayne

When you are featured in the media, the headline usually mentions Down syndrome. How do you prefer to be portrayed in the media: As an actor with Down syndrome, or simply an actor?

I’d just like to be mentioned as an actor. It’s about time people drop labels. Why do we need labels anyway? I’m looking forward to being cast in a role where there is no such label.

What are your expectations of film industry?

I’m looking forward to a time when roles are not labelled and we are allowed to play anyone.

You've just played the part of Terry in the TV series Line of Duty. Do you have future projects that you can reveal?

Yes, I do. I'm starring in the series "Masters of the Air" by Hollywood legend Steven Spielberg. The story is about airplane bomber crews in World War 2.