EXCLUSIVE: Picturehouse Entertainment has picked up Harris Dickinson’s Un Certain Regard world premiere Urchin for release in UK-Ireland cinemas on October 3.
Dickinson’s debut feature as director scooped both the best actor Un Certain Regard award for Frank Dillane and the Fipresci prize at Cannes. Charades represents international sales.
Urchin tells the story of a rough sleeper, played by Dillane, on a quest for redemption, battling both external forces and internal demons that perpetuate a cycle of self-destruction. Screen’s review described the film as “infused with an unexpected beauty”.
It was produced by the UK’s Archie Pearch at Devisio Pictures, with Scott O’Donnell of Somesuch. The film was developed by BBC Film, and was financed by BBC Film, BFI and Tricky Knot. Executive producers are Eva Yates, Ama Ampadu, Alexandra Tynion and Olivia Tyson.
Dickinson’s acting credits include Babygirl, The Iron Claw, Scrapper and Palme d’Or winner Triangle Of Sadness. He will play John Lennon in Sam Mendes’ upcoming films about The Beatles.
“Picturehouse is the perfect UK home for Urchin,” said Dickinson. “Their passion for bold filmmaking and unwavering love for cinema is inspiring. I’m proud to launch my debut feature with them and excited for the journey ahead.”
Sara Frain, director of distribution for Picturehouse, added: “As soon as we saw Urchin in Cannes, we just knew that we had to be involved. The film is sharply funny, poignant and wise, with an outstanding lead performance by Frank Dillane. Harris is an incredible filmmaker, and I feel honoured that he has entrusted us to bring this extraordinary film to UK and Irish audiences, alongside his talented team.”