David Holmes: The Boy Who Lived

Written By Apo June 30, 2026 Add Comment

David Holmes: The Boy Who Lived

As Daniel Radcliffe's stunt double in the Harry Potter films, David Holmes' work has been seen worldwide by millions of people. Tragically an on-set accident ended what David calls "the best job in the world," leaving him paralyzed. Like the on-screen character he helped bring to life, David is determined to continue seeking adventure and living life to the fullest despite mounting obstacles.

Movie Information

Release Date	2023-11-13
Runtime	89 Minutes
Language	EN
Rating	7.143/10

Story Summary

David Holmes: The Boy Who Lived chronicles the real-life journey of David Holmes, the stunt double who brought Harry Potter’s daring feats to the big screen. After a catastrophic on‑set accident left him paralyzed, Holmes refuses to let his injury define him. The documentary follows his daily challenges, his relationships with family and fellow cast members, and his relentless pursuit of new adventures—proving that the magic of perseverance can be more powerful than any spell.

Review

A heartfelt and unflinching portrait, the film balances the thrill of behind‑the‑scenes wizardry with the raw vulnerability of a man confronting life-altering disability. Director [Not officially announced.] lets Holmes’s own voice drive the narrative, resulting in an intimate, inspiring experience that resonates far beyond the Harry Potter fandom.

Main Cast

David Holmes
Daniel Radcliffe
Sue Holmes
Andy Holmes
Greg Powell
Tolga Kenan
Marc Mailley
Tommy Wells

Official Trailer

Watch Official Trailer

Frequently Asked Questions

Is David Holmes the same stunt double who performed the broomstick scenes?

Yes, Holmes was the primary stunt double for Daniel Radcliffe throughout the entire Harry Potter series.

What caused the on‑set accident?

The accident happened during a high‑speed stunt involving a moving platform; a mechanical failure resulted in a severe spinal injury.

Does Daniel Radcliffe appear in the documentary?

Daniel Radcliffe provides commentary and appears in several interview segments.

Will the film include any new stunt footage?

The documentary includes archival stunt footage and new scenes showing Holmes adapting his movement with assistive devices.

Is the documentary suitable for younger audiences?

While the film contains intense moments related to the accident, it is generally appropriate for teens and adults with parental guidance for younger viewers.