Multi-Screening: Silence Undone, I'm So OCD, Barbara, HANK, Writing The World Backwards

Barbara

BARBARA Canada, Director - Aidan Lesser

A lone, crisis-hotline operator receives a distressing call during her graveyard shift.

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"Barbara is based upon real events that happened to our lead actress (and my mother) during her time as a crisis hotline operator. It's a personal story that faces the loneliness and stigma associated with mental illness with empathy. Additionally, the movie highlights the difficulty of being, and the courage it takes to be a hotline operator (and more broadly a professional in the field of mental health). We hope the story resonates with you as it did with us."

HANK

HANK UK, Director - Michael Pedley

An early-30s guy struggles to regain control of his life from the hairy black monster he lives with.

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"My film, HANK, features an 8ft monster who is the physical embodiment of Luke's (the main character) depression. HANK is a constant presence in Luke's life in the same way that depression is ever present even when you're having a good day. The way HANK disrupts Luke's life highlights how depression can make simple tasks difficult and difficult situations feel overwhelming. The film will hopefully allow those who suffer with depression to feel like they're not alone, but also encourage understanding in those who've never experienced mental health issues."

I'm So OCD

I'm So OCD USA, Director - Beth Reiners

Kayli Hassebrock has severe OCD, but that doesn't mean she obsessively cleans and washes her hands. This documentary examines what real obsessive-compulsive disorder is and the misconception that people think of when they say "I'm So OCD."

Writing The World Backwards

Writing the World Backwards UK, Director - Angela Robson

Lorna Collins experienced a catastrophic brain injury at the age of 18 and spent the next 20 years going in and out of psychiatric hospitals, including the infamous Esquirrol asylum in Paris, subjected to humiliating treatment and assault, before art became her pathway to recovery from crippling anorexia. This film follows her evolution from comatose patient to flourishing artist, taking us on a journey into her darkly strange and cinematic imagination. Viewers are invited to inhabit and see beyond the stages that define mental illness.

Silence Undone

silence undone    Netherlands, Director - Kristjan Knigge

To embrace a loving relationship for the first time, isolated Sophie delves into her mind-maze made of memories and fears. She learns she needs to accept that her past shouldn’t define her future. Based on a true story.