Harris Dickinson’s Directorial Debut: ‘Urchin’

British actor Harris Dickinson, renowned for his performances in Beach Rats, Triangle of Sadness, and Babygirl, is making his directorial debut with Urchin. At just 28, Dickinson’s transition behind the camera marks a significant milestone in his career, adding yet another dimension to his multifaceted talent.

Plot and Themes

Urchin follows the story of Mike, a young homeless man struggling to find his place in London. The film delves into Mike’s battle with self-destructive habits and his quest for redemption amid the harsh realities of life on the streets. Dickinson has shared that the film explores deep themes of mental health and the failure of societal structures to adequately support those on the fringes. Through Mike’s journey, Urchin reflects the struggles of individuals lost within the system, shedding light on the human side of homelessness and personal recovery.

Cast and Production

Frank Dillane, known for his role as Tom Riddle in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, stars as Mike. The supporting cast includes Megan Northam, Amr Waked, Karyna Khymchuk, and Shonagh Marie. The film is produced by Devisio Pictures, a company co-founded by Dickinson and producer Archie Pearch, with support from the British Film Institute (BFI) and BBC Film. Principal photography began in London in June 2024, with the post-production wrapping up earlier this year.

Cannes Film Festival Premiere

Urchin is set to make its premiere at the 78th Cannes Film Festival in May 2025, where it will be showcased in the Un Certain Regard section. This is a significant achievement for Dickinson, with the selection of his film in this prestigious section signaling recognition for both his storytelling and the film’s exploration of complex social issues.

Industry Reception

The film has already garnered industry interest, with sales handled by Charades at the European Film Market in Berlin. This strategic move indicates strong international interest and suggests that Urchin will have a broad reach upon its eventual release.

Looking Ahead

As Harris Dickinson continues to evolve as an artist, Urchin stands as a testament to his creative versatility. With its raw, empathetic portrayal of urban life and personal redemption, the film is set to make a significant impact on audiences. The premiere at Cannes will undoubtedly elevate Dickinson’s career and signal the arrival of a promising new voice in filmmaking. This directorial debut marks an exciting chapter in Dickinson’s career, and it’s clear that Urchin will be a defining work in his growing legacy.