On a warm summer afternoon in east London, Harris Dickinson welcomed a visitor into the modest office of his production company, Devisio Pictures, located in a quiet neighborhood away from Soho’s bustling film scene. Known primarily as an actor, Dickinson is now stepping firmly into his Harris Dickinson Filmmaker Journey, writing and directing his first feature film, Urchin. This new role marks a significant transition for the 29-year-old, who has traded the bright lights of acting for the pressure-filled world behind the camera.
The Creative Environment Behind Devisio Pictures
Inside the workspace, Dickinson’s casual appearance—clad in a white T-shirt and cargo pants—belies the intense creative energy. The office, once an old schoolhouse, is adorned with vintage movie posters including those for E.T. and a John Cassavetes retrospective, reflecting a blend of cinematic inspiration and personal history. The clutter of potted plants and herbal teas sets a homey yet determined tone, a contrast to the high-profile events Dickinson recently experienced.
I made the first rough cut of Urchin on those,
he remarked, gesturing toward two large monitors resting on a corner desk.
Urchin’s Premiere at Cannes: A Moment of Nerve and Triumph
Urchin had its world premiere in the prestigious Un Certain Regard section at Cannes just two months prior, where Dickinson walked the red carpet in Prada and faced intense media attention. Despite the glamour of the festival, his nerves were overwhelming.
I’d never been so nervous in my life,
Dickinson recalled while offering a soda.
I was terrified. I felt like I was having a nervous breakdown 10 minutes before we went into the screening.
The stakes of his directorial debut were clear, as he navigated the emotional rollercoaster of presenting a deeply personal project to the world.
The Impact and Future of Dickinson’s Filmmaking Efforts
Harris Dickinson’s move from acting to directing illustrates a bold and intense artistic evolution, as he builds a foundation that may define the next phase of his creative career. The release of Urchin signals an important milestone for him as a filmmaker, establishing Devisio Pictures as a serious player in the independent film scene. With the experience gained from Cannes and the grassroots energy of his London office, Dickinson’s path forward is one that balances raw vulnerability with ambitious vision, promising to influence both his personal trajectory and the broader industry.
