Actor Harris Dickinson is making his directorial debut with the film Urchin, and the recently released trailer gives audiences a powerful glimpse into its raw and serious themes. Scheduled for a limited theatrical release starting October 10, the movie tells the story of Mike (played by Frank Dillane), a young man in London struggling with homelessness and a cycle of self-destructive behavior.
For teen audiences and parents, it’s important to know that Urchin is not a light watch. The film handles heavy topics with unflinching honesty. The trailer suggests that the movie explores how easy it is to fall into a life of homelessness and how difficult it is to break free from that cycle.
Thematic Elements to Consider
- Homelessness and Poverty: The film paints a realistic picture of life on the streets. It shows the daily struggles Mike faces, from finding a place to sleep to navigating a world that often ignores or judges him. This can be a powerful and empathetic look at a difficult reality for many people.
- Addiction as a Cycle: The trailer highlights that addiction isn’t just about using substances; it’s about a pattern of behavior that can be incredibly hard to escape. The movie shows Mike’s attempts to get sober and turn his life around, but also the challenges and temptations that pull him back into old habits.
- Violence and Consequences: Mike’s story is triggered by a violent act—a robbery that lands him in prison. This underscores the connection between desperation, crime, and the difficult choices people make when trying to survive. The film also shows the personal and emotional fallout of these actions.
Despite the difficult subject matter, reviews from film festivals like Cannes praise the film for its humanity and lack of judgment. Dickinson, who drew on his own experiences working with homeless charities to write the script, aims to create a dialogue about these urgent issues rather than offering easy answers.
This film is a poignant character study and a strong debut for Dickinson, offering a window into a side of life many people never see. The movie doesn’t sugarcoat anything, making it a valuable tool for understanding complex social issues, but one that requires a mature approach from viewers.
The following video is the official trailer for the film Urchin.