Ncuti Gatwa Backs 'Doctor Who' Co-Star's Queer Romance Short 'Passing Through'

Actor Ncuti Gatwa is reuniting with his "Doctor Who" co-star Niamh Marie Smith, this time stepping behind the scenes to serve as executive producer on her new short film "Passing Through."

Marie Smith, who appeared in the 2024 "Doctor Who" Christmas special "Joy to the World" as Sylvia Trench, is taking on multiple roles for the project. She will star in the short while also writing and directing it. She is joined on screen by Gemma Laurie, known for her work on "Shetland" and "The Long Shadow."

A Modern Queer Meet-Cute

Described as a "modern, queer take on a meet-cute," "Passing Through" draws inspiration from what its team calls the "chemistry and heart of timeless British rom-coms." According to its synopsis, the film follows two strangers who meet on a train station platform in December.

The story is billed as tender and hopeful, exploring themes of grief, connection and the unexpected significance of seemingly minor interactions. It marks the second short film from Marie Smith, who said she aims to "platform stories and moments previously overlooked as 'unimportant.'"

"This story is very close to my heart," Marie Smith said in a statement. "I'm so grateful to be collaborating with this team of incredible creatives to bring it to life."

Gatwa Praises 'Fresh New Talent'

Reflecting on his decision to join the project, Gatwa spoke warmly about his previous collaboration with Marie Smith. "I had the pleasure of working with Niamh on 'Doctor Who' and was blown away by her talent and insight," he said. "So, I'm overjoyed to be joining this project as EP and work with such fresh new talent."

He added that the script resonated with him immediately. "'Passing Through' is a beautiful script about human connection, grief and taking in the small pleasures of life. It's really simple and beautifully layered at the same time and as soon as I read it my heart was warmed and I knew I wanted to be involved."

Co-star Gemma Laurie echoed that enthusiasm. "The script for 'Passing Through' feels so tender and sparky, and shows how two strangers can make a meaningful impact on each other in quite a fleeting space of time," she said. "I'm excited to be acting alongside Niamh on this beautiful project."

An Award-Winning Team

The short brings together a range of established creative talent. "Doctor Who" casting director Becky Rossmaur, whose credits include "Code of Silence" and "Tip Toe," is also on board.

The crew features cinematographer Sunshine Hsien Yu Niu, a BAFTA winner for her work on the short "Rock, Paper, Scissors," alongside BAFTA- and BIFA-longlisted producer Augusta Woods, known for "Sister Wives" and "The Track." Producer Sarah Boyks, whose work includes "The Christophers" and "Dekho," rounds out the team.

"Passing Through" is produced by Track Films, Blank Canvas Pictures and Loinnir Pictures. Filming is set to begin soon, with a release planned for later this year.

As Gatwa expands his creative footprint beyond the TARDIS, this collaboration highlights an emerging generation of British filmmaking voices. Share this article to spread the word about a project set to celebrate the quiet power of human connection.

Source: Variety