The fragile bond between a man and a streetwise youth unravels amid the harsh realities of survival.
Mike, a homeless man in London, struggles to rebuild his life after prison. When he forms a tenuous friendship with a scrappy youth, both confront addiction, violence and betrayal. Their bond tests their loyalty as they navigate a world that offers little mercy or hope.
Actor Harris Dickinson’s impressive directorial debut Urchin immerses viewers in the gritty realities of life on the margins, blending stark realism with empathetic storytelling. The film combines raw street drama with moments of dark comedy, exploring human resilience, connection and moral complexity. The tight cinematography, authentic dialogue and grounded performances – especially by Frank Dillane who expertly channels Mike’s vulnerability and stubborn defiance – lead to an emotionally devastating and deeply engaging experience. Echoing the social awareness of Fish Tank and the visceral immediacy of This Is England, Urchin is a striking study of survival, friendship and the relentless struggle for redemption in a harsh urban landscape.
