Oscar-Qualified Short RYAN CAN’T READ: Interview/Film Breakdown of this Brilliant Endearing Heartwarming Story

Ladies and gentlemen, this heartwarming tug at your heart short film RYAN CAN’T READ delves into the struggles of Ryan, played by Lewis Ian Bray, a man facing immense financial hardship and the overwhelming burden of bills. His inability to claim benefits pushes him to the edge of despair. However, a lifeline is thrown his way when his friend Tyrone, portrayed by James Nelson-Joyce, offers him a chance at redemption.

This short film is a tearjerker, set against the vibrant backdrop of Liverpool, England, examines the human spirit’s resilience in the face of adversity.

With a screenplay co-written by Rhys Chapman and Lewis Ian Bray, RYAN CAN’T READ paints a vivid picture of the challenges faced by individuals in their daily lives and the profound impact of friendship.

We all have Ryans in our life and we all need to be more like Tyrone in helping those that need a bit of love, encouragement and motivation. We can all be mentors and this beautiful short teaches us that very thing.

RYAN CAN’T READ is one of my absolute favorite films of the year as I am a sucker for heartwarming and endearing stories that have the power to put tears in your eyes. And this film has put those tears in my eyes six times already.

My guests today are producer Bryony Pulizzi and writer/actor Lewis Ian Bray and their heartwarming and endearing Oscar-qualified short film RYAN CAN’T READ.

Bryony's debut as a producer was on 2022 BAFTA shortlisted "ROY" from Academy Award winning production company Slick Films, closely followed by "Ryan Can't Read" and "Gladstone Girls". She has also worked in the industry as a Casting Assistant for TV and Film. She is also a graduate of The American Academy of Dramatic Arts.

Lewis Ian Bray is a neuro-divergent actor and screenwriter known for his commitment to authentic storytelling and underrepresented voices. He co-wrote and starred as Ryan in the Academy Award-qualifying short film RYAN CAN’T READ. Praised by Ken Loach as "touching" and "important," the film earned Lewis the Best Actor award at Tokyo's ShortShorts Film Festival.

In addition to his role in Channel 4's upcoming drama series PATIENCE, Lewis is involved in several exciting projects set to air in 2025/26. He is also the founder of Scribble Pictures, a neuro-divergent-led production company.

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