A collection of films that reminds us of the power of coming together and reinforces that we are not alone. In Community explores collective healing, providing spaces to address anxiety, inner wounds and inequality. These diverse UK-based filmmakers highlight the essential role of community in supporting mental health.
List of films:
US d. Tim Mercier (UK, 2023) 34m
Conceptualised as a piece where the ‘maker’ also occupies the space of the subject. US brings together the stories of five remarkable Londoners, reflecting life journeys after trauma, through the mental health crisis and heading towards recovery.
Learning to Surf d. Creative Natives (Scotland, 2023) 9m
An immersive short that explores the impact of anxiety on young people’s daily lives, highlighting how ordinary tasks become significant challenges. Using a blend of animation and experimental techniques, the film creates a sense of unease, effectively conveying the overwhelming reality faced by those living with anxiety.
Walking to Connect d. Elina Bry (Scotland, 2022) 15m
Glasgow-based artist Elina Bry engages with participants in a three-month residency with the Clyde Fishing Hobbyist in Inverclyde to explore walking, not just as a means of transit, but as a form of connection and memory-making. Through nature walks and experimental filming techniques, including using a fishing rod to capture sound and perspectives, the project uncovers different viewpoints and deepens understanding of personal and collective narratives.
She is… d. Annmarie Strain (Scotland, 2022) 14m
A short film that examines the treatment of women in society, exploring themes of inequality, power, and misogyny. Created with participants from In Cahootz’s Creative Citizens group, She is… offers insight into the challenges women experience daily.
A Little While Longer d. Isa Rao, Tom van den Hurk (Scotland, 2023) 23m
A poignant piece that follows three male suicide survivors as they gather on the Isle of Arran to share their stories of struggle and resilience. Created by Tom van den Hurk, a suicide survivor, and Dr. Isa Rao, a cognitive neuroscientist, the film aims to break the silence and end the stigma surrounding suicide.
This film contains a description of suicide.
All of the filmmakers will take part in a Q&A following this screening.
Walking to Connect has won the Community award at SMHAF’s International Film Awards 2024.
This event is part of the Scottish Mental Health Arts Festival’s Focus on Film programme, taking place in Glasgow from 16-19 October.
