Ry Barrett

Originally from Guelph Ontario, Toronto based actor Ry Barrett, changed focus from a musically inclined path, to acting, in the early 2000's. After playing music and devoting time with several rock, alternative and punk bands through and exceeding his high school years, Ry began his career as the lead character in the 2004 Lions Gate horror-comedy release, 'Desperate Souls'. The film was directed by two friends he had formed a bond over the love of film with, Chad Archibald and Gabriel Carrer, and who had been aware of Barrett's love of drama and the arts throughout high school. He continued in the acting direction with a steady incline of intriguing roles, following up in another Lions Gate release 'Psycho Ward', and the genre festival favorites, 'Dead Genesis' and 'If A Tree Falls' which cemented his love of the art and process. Barrett then went on to play the role of the central character in the psychological thriller 'Neverlost' (Anchor Bay/Black Fawn Films), a role he received critical commendation for, as well as a 2011 Toronto International Film and Video Award for Best Actor in a Feature. For his role in 'Neverlost", Ry lost 50lbs to better suit the character, and has subsequently become known for his dedication and physical commitment and transformation to each role he immerses himself in. He has played a variety of characters demonstrating a dynamic range as an actor; from intense personal dramas, action and horror villains and heroes, comedies and even the odd children's film. Ry has never shied away from playing a leading man, as well as character-central supporting roles. The final product and the 'big picture' are seen to be what he cares about most when invested in a project.

A born lover of cinema, long-time and published story and song writer, Barrett's interests quickly branched into screen-writing and producing early in his acting career. In the summer of 2008, Barrett teamed with director and friend Gabriel Carrer, developing, writing, producing and acting in the indie horror success, 'If A Tree Falls', and teamed again with Carrer for the award winning 'The Demolisher'. Ry has since written, directed and produced numerous music videos, features and short films, as has continued to win and accept nominations from festivals and institutions for his contributions as an actor and filmmaker.