Harris Dickinson's film, titled 'Urchin', will have its US release in October, through the distributors 1-2 Special.
In the upcoming film "Urchin", scheduled for release on October 10, 2025, director Harris Dickinson presents a raw and poignant portrayal of a man struggling to escape the clutches of addiction and homelessness in London[3][4][6]. Frank Dillane stars as Mike, a character trapped in a cycle of self-destruction following a prison stint, and his attempts to turn his life around[3][4][5].
Set in the gritty streets of London, "Urchin" offers a social realism that echoes the works of renowned British filmmakers like Ken Loach and Mike Leigh, but with a fresh and personal touch under Dickinson’s direction[1]. The film premiered at the Cannes Film Festival, where it earned critical acclaim and a 97% critics score on Rotten Tomatoes[1][2].
Frank Dillane's powerful performance as Mike has been widely praised, with critics hailing him as an exciting new talent[1][2]. The film's supporting cast includes Diane Axford, Murat Erkek, Moe Hashim, Okezie Morro, Natasha Jean Sparkes, Oriana White, Shonagh Marie, Amr Waked, and Karyna Khymchuk, each contributing to the film's authentic and immersive depiction of life on the margins in London[1].
"Urchin" was awarded the Un Certain Regard jury prize at Cannes, and Harris Dickinson was honoured with the Firpresci Prize following its premiere on the Croisette[4][5]. The film was also a selection in the Cannes Un Certain Regard, and Harris Dickinson's directorial debut has solidified his position as a promising new voice in British cinema[4][5].
In addition to "Urchin", the production company Special has a diverse slate of films, including "A Poet", which won the Un Certain Regard jury prize at Cannes, and "Mirrors No. 3", which was a Cannes Directors' Fortnight entry[2]. The company has also recently acquired North American rights to "Dracula", an entry at Locarno[2].
Meanwhile, Nigerian director Dika Ofoma has also made waves with his film "Till The Morning Comes", which won Locarno's Open Doors[7]. The film is a powerful exploration of life in Nigeria and has been praised for its authenticity and emotional depth.
In summary, "Urchin" promises to be a thought-provoking and powerful film, with Frank Dillane's compelling performance at its centre. The film's release on October 10, 2025, is eagerly anticipated by audiences and critics alike.
Movies-and-TV like "Urchin" offer a deep dive into entertainment centered around social realism, showcasing gritty stories that echo the works of renowned British filmmakers. In the world of movies-and-TV, "Urchin" stands out as a compelling exploration of struggle, addiction, and redemption.