Brand New Short Film Breaks Mental Health Silence

Main Category: Mental Health
Article Date: 17 Sep 2008 - 4:00 PDT

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EgoProject Films are proud to present 'SICK', a brand new film which explores the subject of mental illness. The 15 minute short film focuses on the troubled relationship between a father and daughter. 'SICK' attempts to highlight the very real issues surrounding the landscape of depression, anxiety and addiction, in a uniquely non-stereotypical way.

Winning highly prized support from Film London and National Lottery funding through Screen South and the UK Film Council, 'SICK' has already drawn strong praise from Samaritans. Following an International premiere in March it has been selected for 25 film festivals across 10 countries and 5 US States, winning the Gold Award at 41st Houston International Film Festival, an Honourable Mention at California's Accolade Film Awards, and Best Short Film at AsterFest 2008 in Macedonia. It has been nominated 4 times for Best International Short Film including at Rome Independent Film Festival. 'SICK' is the debut film from new writer/director Mike Rymer, a graduate of the International Film School Wales at University of Wales Newport where he wrote the script.

Mike Cobb (Samaritans) said:

"'SICK' is a powerful depiction of how the lives of people everywhere are affected in the long and short term by mental health issues. It is a compelling and moving work that will resonate with its audiences. The film represents a journey which Samaritans volunteers know only too well."

Mike Rymer (Writer/Director of 'SICK') said:

"One in four people are affected by mental illness but it remains taboo. It is amazing that something so prevalent should be so unspoken and this film seeks to start breaking down some of those barriers."

Miranda Robinson (Head of Development and Training at Screen South) said:

"Screen South are delighted to support Mike Rymer in the distribution of his short film 'SICK', which is a thought provoking film deserving of a wide International audience."

Notes

'SICK' is a 15 minute independent drama and a co-production by EgoProject Films and Patchwork Productions. It was largely funded by South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust Charitable Funds. The filmmakers are available for interview. More info and stills on the website. EPK available on request.

World Mental Health Day