British actor Tony Way is no stranger to memorable roles, from Ser Dontos in Game of Thrones to his turn in Ricky Gervais’ After Life. His latest project, Time Travel Is Dangerous, lets him lean into a very different kind of character while still playing to his comedic strengths.
The film, directed by Chris Reading and co-written with Anna-Elizabeth and Hillary Shakespeare, is a mockumentary-style comedy that follows two vintage shop owners who stumble upon a time machine and begin raiding the past for collectibles. Along the way, they encounter an eccentric circle of scientists and inventors, including Way’s character Peter.
Way describes Peter as “odd in a socially awkward way” yet also quietly brilliant, with inventions that appear useless until they prove unexpectedly valuable. He enjoyed exploring Peter’s awkward humor and low-key genius, even weaving in a subtle romantic thread between Peter and Ruth, one of the shop owners.
Balancing absurd science fiction with grounded comedy was key to his performance. “The realism is what sells the unrealism,” Way explained. For him, Peter needed to feel like someone you could meet in real life—even if that person might make you slightly uncomfortable.
Working with Reading and the Shakespeare sisters was another draw. Way praised their collaborative style and their ability to pull together a remarkable cast that includes Sophie Thompson, Johnny Vegas, Jane Horrocks, and narration from Stephen Fry. “It shows you how good the script is and how lovely Chris is to get us all together,” he said.
The actor also reflected on the film’s very British tone, with its charity shops, dodgem car time machine, and understated comedy. Yet he believes the humor will translate well to audiences abroad, noting that UK and US comedy increasingly share common ground.
Ultimately, Way hopes audiences leave the cinema with more than just laughs. “I hope people come away going, ‘I’m glad I watched a little indie film,’” he said. “It’s really funny, and it doesn’t need to be a Marvel or DC movie to be worth your time.”
Jessie Hobson