Berlin Flashback: Jamie Bell’s First Fest Foray Was ‘Hallam Foe’

Hollywood Reporter

by Kevin Cassidy

February 15, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Jamie Bell, the British actor who rose to fame at just 14 with his debut in *Billy Elliot*, has reflected on his early career and the challenges of his first major film role in *Hallam Foe* during a visit to the Berlinale in 2007. By that point, Bell had already worked with prominent directors like Peter Jackson (*King Kong*) and Clint Eastwood (*Flags of Our Fathers*), marking the start of his transition into more complex young adult roles. In *Hallam Foe*, directed by David Mackenzie, Bell played an eccentric character grappling with themes of family loss and personal transformation, a role he described as both emotionally demanding and physically challenging, including rooftop climbing and lock-picking scenes despite his fear of heights. The film, which won a Silver Bear for best music at the Berlinale, was praised by THR critic Kirk Honeycutt for offering Bell a “showy part” that highlighted his talent. Bell revealed how the role forced him to confront sensitive topics like family death and intimacy, including his first on-screen bedroom scene. His dedication to authenticity meant he took on physical risks, such as scaling rooftops and breaking locks, to fully embody the character’s rebellious nature. Now 39, Bell is returning to Berlin with director Karim Aïnouz’s *Rosebush Pruning*, a competition film that continues his exploration of complex emotional landscapes, this time focusing on themes of loss and relationships. The ensemble cast includes stars like Callum Turner, Riley Keough, Elle Fanning, and Pamela Anderson, but Bell remains drawn to roles that delve into the depths of human experience. His journey from a teenage actor to a seasoned performer underscores his ability to tackle challenging narratives with authenticity and courage, making him a standout figure in contemporary cinema.

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Originally published on Hollywood Reporter on 2/15/2026