Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman
min read · June 8, 2025 · Entertainment

Theo James and Stephen Fry Shock You with a Grotesque Tale of Ocean Destruction

Theo James and Stephen Fry have teamed up for a grotesque new film that's worlds away from their respective work

EXCLUSIVE: Hollywood Hunk Theo James and TV Legend Stephen Fry Join Forces for Shocking New Environmental Campaign!

In a jaw-dropping turn of events, heartthrob actor Theo James and esteemed broadcaster Stephen Fry have teamed up for a gut-wrenching new film that's worlds away from their usual fare. The 90-second clip, aptly titled "The Bottom Line," is an eye-opening exposé on the devastating practice of bottom trawling – a fishing method that's leaving a trail of destruction in its wake.

Theo James, 40, who's known for his dashing roles in hit TV shows like "The White Lotus" and "The Gentleman," takes on a new persona as an unsuspecting diner at a trendy restaurant. As he peruses the menu, he orders a seemingly sustainable fish course – but little does he know what's about to unfold.

TV hunk Theo, 40, has swapped his roles in the The White Lotus and The Gentleman as he portrays an unassuming diner at a smart restaurant as Stephen, 67, plays a waiter

Enter Stephen Fry, 67, who plays a suave head waiter with a wicked sense of humor. When Theo queries whether the fish was caught sustainably, Stephen gives him a sly smile and reassures him that it most certainly was. But just as things seem settled, the tables turn – literally!

In a heart-stopping sequence, a massive catch crashes down on top of Theo, covering him in the remains. "It's in my mouth!" he screams, frantically waving his arms as Stephen dryly remarks, "Presumably sir would like the extras...?"

The film was produced by the Blue Marine Foundation, a charity dedicated to restoring the ocean and tackling overfishing. Speaking about their involvement, Stephen Fry expressed his outrage at the scale of destruction caused by bottom trawling: "This shockingly destructive practice continues even in the UK's protected areas. I witnessed the waste firsthand and was absolutely appalled. It is morally corrupt to allow what should be thriving ecological wildernesses to be reduced to shells of destruction."

In grotesque scenes, bycatch crashes down on top of Theo and the table, covering him in the remains

Theo James, a keen diver himself, echoed Stephen's sentiments: "As a passionate advocate for ocean conservation, it was an honor to bring attention to this critical issue. Having had a load of bycatch dumped on me, it really drove home just how grotesque and devastating the practice of bottom trawling is. It was deeply unsettling, but I'm glad to have been a part of something that can drive real change."

Directed by twice-BAFTA nominated filmmaker Ben Mallaby (known for his work on "Borderlands" and "Island Queen"), "The Bottom Line" is an unflinching look at the consequences of human neglect. With its shocking visuals and thought-provoking message, this short film is sure to leave viewers speechless.

So what exactly is bottom trawling?

The attention-grabbing film, called The Bottom Line, was made by Blue Marine Foundation , a charity aimed at restoring the ocean and tackling overfishing

Bottom trawling is a fishing method that involves dragging heavy nets across the ocean floor in search of fish. While it may seem efficient, this practice has devastating consequences: up to 80% of the catch is discarded or destroyed as bycatch (unwanted species caught along with the target fish). The destruction of marine habitats and ecosystems can have far-reaching effects on global food supplies, livelihoods, and even climate change.

What can you do to help?

The Blue Marine Foundation urges governments, fishing industries, and individuals to take action against bottom trawling. You can start by:

The 90-second clip was directed by twice-BAFTA nominated director Ben Mallaby, who is known for his work on Borderlands and Island Queen

  1. Spreading awareness: Share "The Bottom Line" with friends and family on social media using the hashtag #BottomTrawling.
  2. Supporting ocean conservation efforts: Donate to organizations like the Blue Marine Foundation or sign petitions calling for action against bottom trawling.
  3. Choosing sustainable seafood: When buying fish, opt for certified sustainably sourced options.

Together, we can make a difference and help protect our precious oceans!

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