Kit Harington makes directorial debut with Harry Melling-led short film 'Psychopomp'

Kit Harington is stepping behind the camera for the first time, with the Game of Thrones star making his directorial debut with the dark comedy short film Psychopomp, starring Harry Melling.

According to Variety, Harington wrote and directed the 24-minute film, which follows a depressed man named Harry, played by Melling, who hires an assassin named Liam, portrayed by Ciarán Owens, to end his life. However, 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.

Psychopomp has already screened at the Manchester Film Festival and is set to continue its festival run, including a stop at Raindance. The film marks a significant career milestone for Harington, who is best known for playing Jon Snow in HBO’s Game of Thrones and more recently earned acclaim for his role as Henry Muck in Industry.

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.

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 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. With Melling in the lead and a story balancing existential themes with black comedy, Psychopomp marks the beginning of a new chapter for the actor-turned-director.