Kit Harington has stepped behind the camera for the first time, marking his directorial debut with the dark comedy short film Psychopomp. The 24-minute film, which Harington also wrote, stars Harry Melling as a depressed man named Harry who hires an assassin named Liam, played by Ciarán Owens, to end his life. As the pair embark on a road trip across northern England to Harry’s chosen resting place, an unlikely friendship begins to develop, causing both men to question their plans.
Festival Screenings and Career Milestone
According to Variety, Psychopomp has already screened at the Manchester Film Festival and is set to continue its festival run, including a stop at Raindance. The film represents a significant career milestone for Harington, best known for playing Jon Snow in HBO’s Game of Thrones and more recently earning acclaim for his role as Henry Muck in Industry.
Cast and Crew
Harry Melling, known for portraying Dudley Dursley in the Harry Potter films and for acclaimed performances in The Queen’s Gambit and Pillion, leads the cast. Fabian Wagner, who worked as cinematographer on Game of Thrones, reunited with Harington behind the camera, while Tania Goding served as editor.
Themes and Style
The title Psychopomp refers to a mythical being that guides souls to the afterlife, a theme that underpins the film's exploration of depression, regret, and second chances. Despite its heavy subject matter, the short employs dark humour and sweeping British landscapes to tell its story.
Harington’s Creative Ambitions
Harington has previously spoken about wanting to expand his creative horizons beyond acting, and Psychopomp represents his first foray into directing. The actor also penned the screenplay, making the project an intensely personal one. While no wider release plans have been announced, the short has already generated interest on the festival circuit and offers a glimpse into Harington’s ambitions as a filmmaker.
