Harris Dickinson Opens Up About the Awkward Side of Acting
Harris Dickinson shares why acting can feel awkward and exposing, and how he works to create a safe space for performers. Despite his rising success as a director, he remains drawn to complex roles and the challenges they bring.
At just 29, Harris Dickinson has already made a name for himself as one of the most emotionally perceptive filmmakers of his generation. His directorial debut, Urchin, set for release in 2025, follows Frank Dillane’s character Mike as he navigates the unpredictable realities of homelessness. The film has been praised for its empathy, standout performances, and striking direction. Although Dickinson appears briefly in the movie, his main focus was clearly on shaping the story from behind the camera.
With the acclaim for his first film still fresh, Dickinson might be tempted to pursue directing full-time. Yet, his talent in front of the camera is undeniable, especially when it comes to portraying characters with deep flaws. His performance as a bold intern in Babygirl transformed what could have been a typical erotic drama into a gripping, suspenseful story. Fans are also eagerly awaiting his portrayal of John Lennon in Sam Mendes’ upcoming biopics, adding to the anticipation around his career.
Vulnerability and Discomfort on Set
Despite his passion for acting, Dickinson admits the process isn’t always comfortable. In a recent interview with Empire, he reflected on the emotional exposure that comes with the job.
“It’s really vulnerable, isn’t it, acting?”
he mused.
“It’s an embarrassing process. Well, it is for me; it’s a weird and humiliating thing, and feels rather silly at times. So I’m constantly having that in my head when I’m directing and creating the right setting for actors in order to feel comfortable. Then, when comfortability comes, I think good performances can come because you’re able to access stuff and lose inhibition. If you’ve got the wrong settings, then it doesn’t work.”
Some of Dickinson’s most challenging roles have left him nowhere to hide. In The Iron Claw, he played a member of the ill-fated Von Erich wrestling family, confronting heavy themes like loss, suicide, and family trauma. The real-life tragedy of David Von Erich, whom Dickinson portrayed, added another layer of responsibility. Co-star Jeremy Allen White described the weight of telling such a painful true story as “scary,” highlighting the importance of a supportive environment for actors tackling such intense material.
Creating Safe Spaces for Performers
Perhaps Dickinson’s sensitivity to the discomforts of acting is what made the set of Urchin so different. Determined not to repeat the negative experiences he’s faced, he worked hard to foster a positive, open atmosphere for his cast. This approach stood in stark contrast to the film’s tough subject matter, which deals with the harsh realities faced by millions. For Dickinson, ensuring everyone felt at ease was essential to capturing authentic, powerful performances.
With his future wide open, Dickinson seems poised to excel whether he chooses to act, direct, or balance both. His commitment to creating calm, supportive sets suggests that whatever path he takes, he’ll continue to bring out the best in those around him.