Thomas Duke Gains Recognition in U.K. Film Promotion Through Social Media and Interviews

Thomas Duke operates the Stepping Through Film social media account, which he started in 2017 to document his interest in films. The account features photos of film locations aligned with scenes from movies. Duke began with British films such as 'Atonement,' 'Skyfall,' 'The Theory of Everything,' and 'Kingsman,' and later expanded to international sites.

' During an early interview with Denzel Washington for 'Gladiator 2,' Duke showed a photo from the 'Training Day' location. Washington responded positively to the photo and answered an additional question about his career. Duke has conducted interviews with actors including Tom Cruise, Brendan Fraser, Emma Thompson, Colin Farrell, and Isla Fisher.

In a junket for 'Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning,' Cruise reacted to an entry in Duke's film journal from a viewing at age 15. Other actors have requested more time for Duke's questions or to view his materials.

Background in Film Enthusiasm Duke has maintained film journals since childhood, now listing over 4,000 titles.

He studied film in school and college, initially aiming to work as a writer or director. The Stepping Through Film account grew to attract invitations for junket participation. Duke's interviews avoid standard questions and focus on personal connections to films.

He stated that his approach involves sensing the energy in the room and keeping discussions casual. As an independent creator, Duke does not face pressure to seek headline quotes. Actors such as Olivia Colman, Hugh Jackman, Kate Hudson, Will Smith, Jacob Elordi, Margot Robbie, Claire Foy, and Billy Bob Thornton have participated in his interviews.

These sessions often include sharing journal entries or location photos related to their past work.

Professional Developments and Partnerships TikTok included Duke on its 2026 Discover List of 50 global creators.

He has over 500,000 followers on TikTok and 1 million on Instagram. Social media videos show actors expressing appreciation for his interview style. Since 2024, Duke has had management representation, leading to larger projects.

Companies including Apple TV, Prime Video, and ITV have used his location photos for promotions. Sony arranged for him to photograph sites for '28 Years Later' in northern England. K. cinema chain Cineworld.

He attended SXSW sponsored by Redbreast whiskey. Junket interviews remain unpaid, which Duke described as a valuable opportunity.

New Book Release Duke's book 'The Film Lover’s Guide to London' was released this week by Sphere Books, an imprint of Little, Brown.

The book includes location photos, descriptions, anecdotes, and interview elements from London film sites. ' Duke noted that the book serves as a physical version of his Instagram content. Several publishers approached him with ideas for the project.

The book highlights his ongoing documentation of film locations.