Common Sense Media Review
By Stefan Pape
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Raw British homelessness drama includes drug use, language.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 15+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
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Urchin
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
URCHIN is the story of Mike (Frank Dillane), a young man experiencing homelessness on the streets of London, searching for his next fix of drugs. In a moment of violent madness, he physically assaults a stranger, stealing his watch, which lands him in prison. When released, Mike attempts to turn his life around, looking for permanent accommodation and a job. But the one thing stopping him from truly being able to re-assimilate into society and create a positive path ahead is himself.
Is It Any Good?
This powerful British drama is one of the most accomplished, brilliant debut films in recent memory, as Harris Dickinson (Triangle of Sadness) steps behind the lens for the very first time. With Urchin, Dickinson shows such creative flair in crafting a film that is empathetic and emotive, yet with an impactful punch. The narrative is sprawling and chaotic, but deliberately so, with a real method to the madness, as the film shadows that of central character Mike's life. Dillane is sensational as the flawed Mike, a man who is capable of unspeakable things, but still manages to keep the viewer (just) onside throughout. It's a film that suggests Dickinson has been honing his filmmaking talents while working in front of the camera, and this may prove the start of much more to come.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how homelessness was portrayed in Urchin. What factors contributed to Mike becoming homeless?How did different people treat Mike? Did the film change how you see people experiencing homelessness? Why, or why not?
Discuss how Mike's addictions impacted his life. How did it make him treat other people?
Talk about the strong language used in the movie. Did it seem necessary, or excessive? What did it contribute to the movie?
Movie Details
- In theaters : October 10, 2025
- On DVD or streaming : November 25, 2025
- Cast : Frank Dillane , Harris Dickinson , Diane Axford
- Director : Harris Dickinson
- Inclusion Information : Multiracial Movie Actor(s) , Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : 1-2 Special
- Genre : Drama
- Character Strengths : Perseverance
- Run time : 99 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : October 6, 2025
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