Harris Dickinson’s Directorial Debut, ‘Urchin,’ Praised for Frank Dillane’s Performance

“Urchin,” the directorial debut of actor Harris Dickinson, released October 3, 2025, is garnering attention for its stark portrayal of homelessness and addiction in London, and particularly for the compelling performance of lead actor Frank Dillane.

The film follows Mike, a young man navigating life on the streets, played by Dillane, who “squirms and seethes and shifts uncomfortably in his own skin,” according to reviews. Dickinson, known for roles in films like “The King’s Man” and the upcoming Beatles biopic, employs a minimalist filmmaking style, utilizing stationary camera work and medium shots to emphasize Mike’s isolation. This approach, reminiscent of Ken Loach’s kitchen-sink realism, aims to reflect the societal indifference faced by those experiencing homelessness. The film’s release comes as national homelessness rates continue to rise, making its themes particularly resonant.

Critics highlight Dillane’s ability to portray a character who is both unlikeable and magnetic, showcasing a complex blend of entitlement, irresponsibility, and vulnerability. While the film occasionally relies on clichés, such as dance sequences and montages, its most effective moments are the expressionistic sequences depicting Mike’s internal struggles and memories of incarceration. Dickinson’s script also features supporting roles from Megan Northam and Amr Waked, though the film is most impactful when focused on Dillane’s performance. You can find more information about Frank Dillane’s work here.

“Urchin” has been described as a “respectable debut” that avoids melodrama, maintaining a distinctly British sensibility. Dickinson is currently filming alongside Zac Efron and Jeremy Allen White in “The Iron Claw.” Dickinson has stated he intends to continue directing, focusing on character-driven stories with social relevance.