After receiving a record-breaking 400 submissions, we will be showcasing the stunning winning films that confront and reflect on mental health.
These talented filmmakers have brought their stories to life through profound and thought-provoking cinema. We’re excited to share their incredible achievements in mental health filmmaking.
Join us to hear from this year’s award-winning filmmakers, discover what’s coming up over the rest of our Focus on Film programme, and enjoy a drink at our post-ceremony reception.
The event will be hosted by screenwriter and director Raisah Ahmed.
Award Winning Films
PERSONAL NARRATIVE
My Dad’s Tapes d. Kurtis Watson (Canada, 2024) 1h22m
A remarkable trove of home video tapes spark filmmaker Kurtis Watson to embark on an investigation into repressed memories from his past.
Screening on Fri 18 Oct, 5.30-7.30pm
IN/VISIBLE
Coin Slot d. Scott Jones (Canada, 2022) 17m
A portrait of a young man trying not to unravel as the anniversary of a traumatic attack looms ever closer.
Screening as part of In/Visible on Sat 19 Oct, 6-8.10pm
ANTI-STIGMA
We Beg To Differ d. Ruairi Bradley (Ireland, 2024) 13m
An exploration of the underground world of diffing, and a community navigating struggles and challenges both on and off the road.
Screening as part of Interventions on Sat 19 Oct, 12-1.50pm
COMMUNITY
Walking to Connect d. Elina Bry (Scotland, 2022) 15m
Participants in Inverclyde 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.
Screening as part of In Community on Fri 18 Oct, 2.30-4.40pm
EXPERIMENTAL
This Werewolf Complex d. Heather E Andrews (Scotland, 2024) 15m
A poignant exploration of auras—sensory, physical and emotional disturbances in the brain that can precede convulsive seizures.
Screening as part of Scottish Shorts on Fri 18 Oct, 8-10pm
FEATURE DOCUMENTARY
Silent Men d. Duncan Cowles (Scotland, 2024) 1h27m
Director Duncan Cowles takes us on a journey across the UK to ask men about their experiences of mental health, to confront and understand his own struggles.
Screening on Sat 19 Oct, 8.15-10.15pm
HUMAN RIGHTS
Only When You Bury Me in this Earth d. Nima Shahmalekpur (UK, 2024) 17m
Shaheen, an Afghan refugee, accidentally crashes his kite into a young boy’s toy drone, and is forced to face the purpose of his migration and the sacrifice it entails.
Screening as part of In/Visible on Sat 19 Oct, 6-8.10pm
SHORT DOCUMENTARY
Stephen & David’s Toy Cupboard d. Blair Stewart (Scotland, 2024) 15m
A story of a world-renowned bootleg figure maker who reflects on the life and loss of his brother – the inspiration for his success today.
Screening as part of Interventions on Sat 19 Oct, 12-1.50pm
SHORT DRAMA
You Are My Tomorrow d. Lara Köse (Australia, 2023) 12m
A daughter comes face to face with structural and systemic issues plaguing the care system while advocating for her mentally unstable mother.
Screening as part of Family Ties on Sat 19 Oct, 2-4pm
VOICES OF EXPERIENCE
Dancing Madness d. Marta Espar & Maiol Virgili (Spain, 2022) 1h 13m
Three contemporary dancers collaborate with three women diagnosed with mental disorders to explore the boundaries between normality and madness through a shared creative process.
Screening on Sat 26 Oct, 7.30-9pm as part of Now You See Us
Congratulations to this year’s award-winning filmmakers.
This event is part of the Scottish Mental Health Arts Festival’s Focus on Film programme, taking place in Glasgow from 16-19 October.
