Tommy Perna, a multifaceted and dynamic individual, has built a reputation for himself in the entertainment industry through a diverse range of endeavors and accomplishments.
His professional journey began at Viacom Productions, where he had the opportunity to work under the guidance of the experienced and accomplished Daniel L. Paulson.
In the early stages of his career, Perna demonstrated his versatility by taking on various roles, including producing, co-directing, and starring in the critically acclaimed short film Changes of Distance.
This groundbreaking film went on to achieve international recognition, winning numerous awards at prominent film festivals around the world.
As a result, Perna's talent and dedication have been acknowledged and celebrated by the film industry, solidifying his position as a talented and innovative force in the world of entertainment.
Perna's professional endeavors as a producer culminated in his work on the Mayor of the Sunset Strip, a feature film that garnered widespread critical acclaim. The movie made its debut at a plethora of prestigious film festivals, including the IFP/Los Angeles Film Festival, the Toronto Film Festival, the New York Film Festival at Lincoln Center, and the esteemed Royal London Film Festival.
This critically acclaimed documentary went on to secure a significant deal for worldwide distribution with First Look Media/Lakeshore Entertainment, a transaction that stood as the second-largest sale in documentary history at the time of its occurrence.
Perna's artistic pursuits transcend the realm of film production, as he has also ventured into the realm of literary expression. His creative endeavors have resulted in the authorship of a book of short stories, titled Silk City, which is currently in the process of being adapted into a television series. Furthermore, Perna has also taken up the challenge of crafting a new series of short stories, My Mind's Eye (My Vitriolic Series Of Fantasies),which is characterized by its dark and campy tone.
Perna hails from Paterson, New Jersey, a city situated in the northeastern United States, approximately 13 miles west of New York City. His journey in the entertainment industry commenced on the New York stage, where he honed his craft as a skilled dancer, captivating audiences with his captivating performances. Subsequently, he made the transition to starring in numerous national commercials, showcasing his versatility and range as a talented performer. Additionally, Perna had the opportunity to tread the boards of the esteemed daytime drama, Guiding Light, which garnered the esteemed Emmy Award, further solidifying his reputation as a talented and accomplished actor.
Perna has had a diverse and extensive film career, featuring appearances in a wide range of critically acclaimed and popular movies.
One notable film is Lava Lounge, a captivating and entertaining production that showcases Perna's impressive acting abilities.
Another notable film is Fuel, a gripping and intense drama that highlights Perna's versatility as an actor.
Perna has also starred alongside the legendary Burt Reynolds in the film Deal, a highly anticipated and well-received production.
In addition, Perna has shared the screen with talented actress Sienna Miller in the biographical drama Factory Girl, a film that explores the life and career of Andy Warhol's muse, Edie Sedgwick.
Perna has also had the opportunity to work with esteemed actor William Hurt in the film The Big Brass Ring, a critically acclaimed drama that explores themes of power, corruption, and redemption.
Perna has also appeared alongside iconic rockstar Courtney Love and renowned actor Kiefer Sutherland in the film Beat, a biographical drama that explores the life and work of American poet Allen Ginsberg.
In the thriller Crime & Punishment in Suburbia, Perna starred alongside talented actress Ellen Barkin, bringing to life the complex and intense characters in this gripping and suspenseful film.
Perna has also had the privilege of working with renowned director George Hickenlooper on the critically acclaimed film The Man From Elysian Fields, a poignant and thought-provoking drama that explores themes of love, loss, and redemption. This film features an impressive cast, including Andy Garcia, Mick Jagger, and James Coburn, making it a standout in Perna's filmography.
Perna's artistic endeavors extend far beyond the realm of film, as he has concurrently cultivated a thriving television career, gracing the small screen with his presence in a variety of independent productions, including the critically acclaimed films Lav Lounge and Fuel.
His television credits also boast an impressive array of guest appearances on popular TV series, such as the beloved sitcom Joey and the supernatural drama Charmed. Furthermore, Perna has made memorable appearances on the popular late-night talk show The Jimmy Kimmel Show, showcasing his versatility as a performer.
In 2001, Perna's talents were showcased in a more significant capacity, as he took on the starring role in Proctor & Gamble's Emmy-winning "DreamBuilder" series movie of the week Our Father, a testament to his growing reputation as a talented and sought-after actor.
Perna's artistic endeavors encompass a multitude of creative expressions, transcending the realm of cinematic storytelling. For approximately two decades, he has devoted himself to the art of painting, a passion that has been unfolding since the early days of his artistic journey.
In August 2010, Perna's talent was showcased at the prestigious ARTWALK event in Los Angeles, where his work captivated a packed audience, leaving a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of witnessing his masterpieces.
