Charlie Harper moves from Toronto premiere to reviews ahead of Row K release
Variety published its review of Charlie Harper on 25 September 2026, as the romantic drama completes its move from festival launch toward cinema release. The film is the first feature from directing duo Mac Eldridge and Tom Dean, according to Variety.
Emilia Jones plays Harper and Nick Robinson plays Charlie. Jones previously starred in CODA, as noted by Deadline, while Robinson previously starred in The Kings of Summer, as reported by Deadline.
Written by Dean, the story centres on an aspiring chef. It follows the couple meeting and parting across a five-year timeline, told in a non-linear structure that jumps back and forth in time rather than running straight from start to finish.
It had its world premiere, its first public screening, at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival, according to Row K. Row K Entertainment acquired North American distribution rights, the licence to release the film in cinemas in the United States and Canada. Row K then released a trailer in June 2026, as reported by Deadline.
Charlie Harper was the fourth film set up at Row K Entertainment. Variety reported in March 2026 that the company was facing financial troubles, with one source saying Charlie Harper would still move forward to release, according to Variety.
The Hollywood Reporter also published a review of the film, written by Angie Han. Jones and Robinson discussed making the film at The Hollywood Reporter's TIFF lounge at the 1 Hotel Toronto.
After the Toronto premiere, director Mac Eldridge signed with WME, the talent agency, as reported by Deadline in September 2025.
For people following how films reach screens, this is a familiar path. Festival premiere. US deal. Trailer. Reviews. Charlie Harper has ticked through each step.
