There’s an interesting event next month in our local area of Vancouver, and it’s one that can’t be missed no matter what. On June 3rd at 6:30PM at the VIFF Centre, Voices With Impact will screen 10 movies, all with focuses on mental health. With short films from 9 different countries and covering 10 different subjects (one for each film, obviously), each film was selected by professionals who work in the fields of mental health and filmmaking. So what are the films called and what are they about? Well, here’s a simple summary included with each title:
1-800-GOLEM – Claymation short film when you get too addicted to your phone. I know this too well, remarkably. I’ve been that person with several devices, and my current hair stylist’s son is that person right now. At least Phoenix doesn’t spend hours on that computer I got running for her.
All The Worlds I Could Lift – Queer Women filmmakers who live in the Philippines who also lift weights. Talk about extra strength, this one focuses on queer identity as a mental health subject.
Cocotte – French-Canadian Trans girl who is dealing with hormones and getting a sense of understanding. Drama of sorts exploring teen issues, I’ve watched several of those recently as recommendations from that Phoenix kid, which serve as a warning for what she might be like.
Five Years in 8mm – I don’t see a lot of 8mm films these days, and this one shows how five years in NYC changes overtime. I think this one focuses on gentrification as a subject, and possibly community. I’m not sure, we’ll have to watch it at the event.
Flower in the Concrete – Deep in South Central LA, a community is fighting to precvent losing their homes to a new Olympic development of sorts. Well, community is a big subject when it comes to support for those dealing with mental health issues
Lost at Sea – Animated film painted by hand for every frame, it focuses on grief, loss, and community. Interesting sounding concept.
PIT – A locally made film about mental health, Tourette’s, and mosh pits. In my youth, mosh pits were a strict no-no in just about everywhere. I guess I might figure out why when I watch this.
talking, where i’m from – Two black female therapists star in an experimental documentary made by their grown children. It takes place in the UK. I wonder what we’ll figure out about these two therapists
The Last Pancake – Another UK based film, which focuses on recovering from an eating disorder and gaining self love. It’s a magical realism short too. Could be interesting.
The NightMea – Mea Motu has a history of being a champion boxer and surviving the danger of domestic violence. Now she’s learning to find peace by connecting to her ancestral roots from Aotearoa. Sounds pretty intense.
Well, each and every one of these has me interested in going to check out this event, and if you’re in the Vancouver area, go buy some tickets for only $10 per person. But hurry! I estimate this place will be a full house.