Introduction:
“I’m Toby, is a short drama/thriller with horror elements that explores social anxiety, courage and making new connections. It follows a reclusive man whose anxiety turns to terror when his unplugged phone begins to ring, just as an eerie figure appears on his doorstep. The film was created for the inaugural Reel Brum 48 Hour Film Challenge in 2025, where we had just two days to shoot and edit it. I’m incredibly proud of what we achieved in such a short time, and honoured that the film went on to win the challenge.”
Inspiration:
The idea for I’m Toby came from an old, unplugged rotary phone that my mother keeps as an ornament. One day I walked past it and thought, “Wouldn’t it be terrifying if that phone just started to ring?” That thought became the film’s inciting incident. From there, I became more interested in the character than the horror itself. I wanted to explore the world from the point of view of someone living with social anxiety, where even an unexpected, friendly knock at the door can feel like a horror film playing out in real time. By framing an ordinary act of kindness as a psychological thriller, I hoped to create a film that was both tense and emotionally relatable, reassuring audiences that genuine human connection is worth overcoming our fears for.
The Process:
I’m Toby was filmed in Halesowen in a single day as part of the inaugural Reel Brum 48 Hour Film Challenge. With just two days to write, shoot and edit the entire film, every decision had to be made quickly whilst sticking to a clear creative vision. Despite the limited time, I went in prepared with an idea, a location already secured and was fortunate to work with a talented West Midlands-based cast and crew who embraced the challenge from start to finish. The experience was so rewarding that, a year later, we’re all reuniting to make a sequel called I’m Lucía.
One of the most rewarding parts of the process was how the story evolved through collaboration with the cast. Casting a Spanish actress as Toby’s new neighbour inspired us to make the character Spanish too, adding authentic details such as her bringing Toby homemade paella. When the challenge prompt was announced, we grounded the story in Birmingham, celebrating the city’s welcoming nature and diversity.
Looking back, it’s remarkable what the team achieved in just 48 hours, and we’re incredibly proud that the finished film went on to win the competition.
What It Means to Be a Finalist:
Being selected as a finalist at Worcester Film Festival is incredibly rewarding, not just for me but for everyone who helped bring I’m Toby to life. With less than two weeks’ notice that the challenge was taking place, and only 48 hours to shoot and edit the film, our talented West Midlands cast and crew demonstrated what can be achieved through commitment, creativity and trust. I’m proud that the film continues to connect with audiences beyond the challenge it was made for, and grateful that the hard work of everyone involved continues to be recognised.
Where to Watch / Follow:
You can follow my filmmaking journey on Instagram at @tomjwoolley_ for updates on I’m Toby, behind-the-scenes content, and news on its online release after the festival run. I’ll also be sharing updates on my upcoming projects, including its sequel, I’m Lucía.
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