Houston, Texas, June 3, 2025 – HCU Professor Christopher Hartwell’s debut film “Do No Harm,” a searing psychological medical thriller, screened on May 16 at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival along with a slate of films presented by Iris Indie Global.
Hartwell, Assistant Professor of Cinema, Media Arts, and Writing, described the festival as an unforgettable experience. “It’s one of the most prestigious film markets in the world and having “Do No Harm” represented there as we work toward distribution was both thrilling and humbling,” said Hartwell, writer and director of the film.
The film follows an exceptional home-health nurse (played by Harry Shum, Jr. of “Crazy Rich Asians” and “Everything Everywhere All at Once”) whose world unravels after a simple mistake turns fatal, trapping him in a web of systemic pressure, crushing expectations and the lies we tell to survive.
During the festival, Hartwell and his team, including producers, Josh Sikora (HCU professor and Director of Cinema and New Media Arts) and Christian Sosa, Anthony Parisi, editor, and Harry Shum, Jr., lead actor, had the opportunity to meet with international buyers, attend industry panels and network with filmmakers and distributors from across the globe.
“It was an incredible affirmation of the work we’ve done and a huge step toward bringing the film to a global audience,” shared Hartwell on screening at the festival.
The team’s hope is that the film finds a wide audience—one that resonates deeply with its central message: that we all make mistakes, and every one of us is in need of grace.
The story is a deeply personal one for Hartwell whose father is a doctor and wife, a home health nurse. “I’ve seen firsthand the immense pressure and emotional toll carried by those in the profession. This film is a tribute not only to their sacrifice, but to the humanity behind every caregiver, patient, and decision,” said the HCU professor.
Hartwell described the process of making the film, which included participation from HCU film students, “a labor of love that speaks to our shared vulnerability, our longing for connection, and the belief that storytelling can build bridges of empathy and understanding.”
“The students who participated in the production—whether in camera, lighting, wardrobe, or other departments—have expressed tremendous pride in being part of such a professional and ambitious project,” shared the HCU professor. “Seeing their contributions come to life on screen and at international events like Cannes has been incredibly validating and inspiring.”
Hartwell and his production team are currently in conversations with a number of distributors and festivals in the U.S. and abroad to secure distribution for the film.
“Do No Harm” will make its world premiere on June 19 at the iconic TCL Chinese Theatres in Hollywood, where it will serve as the opening night film at the 28th Annual Dances with Films Festival.
“It’s a huge honor to kick off the festival, and we’re thrilled that much of our crew—including several of the students who helped bring the film to life—will be in attendance. Members of our cast, including Harry Shum Jr., Rosaline Elbay, and Ronny Chieng, are also expected to join us for the premiere celebration,” shared Hartwell.
The HCU professor and his team of passionate filmmakers hope “Do No Harm” inspires compassion, reflection and conversation long after the credits roll.
Featured photo: l-r, Christian Sosa (producer), Joshua Sikora (producer), Chris Hartwell (writer/director), Anthony Parisi (editor) and Harry Shum Jr. (lead actor)
About Houston Christian University
For more than 60 years, Houston Christian University has equipped students to lead, collaborate, and embody a deep sense of spiritual purpose. The University offers a wide range of majors, undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degree programs, as well as NCAA Division I athletics in the Southland Conference. Located in the heart of one of the nation’s largest metropolitan centers, HCU’s culture of excellence molds the next generation of educated disciples to be pillars in their communities, preparing them to think critically and biblically as they impact the world.