4 hours ago
Joe Locke Stars in Queer Mystery "Black Church Bay"
READ TIME: 2 MIN.
Joe Locke, the Manx actor who rose to global prominence for his role as Charlie Spring in Netflix’s "Heartstopper," has taken on a leading role in the upcoming drama "Black Church Bay." Directed by Rhys Marc Jones, the film is set in a remote Welsh coastal village and explores the impact of an outsider’s arrival, unearthing secrets that threaten to unravel the close-knit community .
Locke’s casting is significant not only for his growing reputation as a compelling young actor but also for his identity as an openly gay man, bringing increased visibility and authenticity to queer representation in British cinema .
The film, slated for release next year, stars Locke alongside Rakie Ayola, Celyn Jones, and Julian Lewis Jones. The narrative unfolds as a stranger’s arrival disrupts the delicate balance of village life, exposing long-buried secrets and forcing the community to confront its past . Directed and written by Rhys Marc Jones, "Black Church Bay" is described as a tense, atmospheric drama that uses its rural Welsh setting to heighten the sense of isolation and introspection.
“In a remote Welsh coastal village, the disappearance of an openly-gay sixth form student disrupts the delicate balance of local life for one deputy head teacher, exposing long-buried secrets and threatening to tear the community apart,” the show's synopsis teases.
According to production notes, principal photography has wrapped in Wales, with the ensemble cast drawing praise from early industry observers for their nuanced performances and the film’s evocative depiction of community dynamics .
Born in Douglas, Isle of Man, in 2003, Locke is best known for his breakout role in "Heartstopper," a series that won acclaim for its sensitive portrayal of young queer romance . His performance earned him an Emmy nom. with his growing stardom, Locke has become an advocate for LGBTQ+ visibility in media .
Locke continued to break new ground as Billy Maximoff / William Kaplan in Marvel’s "Agatha All Along" and was featured in a Broadway revival of "Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street" as Tobias Ragg. He is set to return to the stage on the West End in the play "Clarkston."
