Heirlooms Short Film Shines Light on Suicide Bereavement and Hidden Grief
Georgia Wray Norsten — February 14, 2025 — Social Good
References: thedrum
The 'Heirlooms' short film is a profoundly moving new project from Suicide&Co, a UK charity focused on supporting those bereaved by suicide. Created in collaboration with VML, directed by Luke Brookner, and produced by Sticker Studios, this poignant film explores how loss lingers in everyday moments, shaping the lives of those left behind.
Inspired by executive producer Will Castle’s personal experience following his father’s suicide, Heirlooms presents grief as an unwanted inheritance, one that resurfaces in life’s milestones -- parenthood, shared traditions, or even something as simple as attending a football match. Starring Harry Cadby (Everything Now, Red Rose), the film highlights the silent struggles many face and emphasizes the urgent need for better mental health support.
Promoted by West Ham United, Heirlooms aims to start conversations and break the stigma around suicide bereavement. By shedding light on the emotional weight carried by survivors, Suicide&Co hopes to drive change and ensure that no one has to grieve alone.
Image Credit: Suicide & Co
Inspired by executive producer Will Castle’s personal experience following his father’s suicide, Heirlooms presents grief as an unwanted inheritance, one that resurfaces in life’s milestones -- parenthood, shared traditions, or even something as simple as attending a football match. Starring Harry Cadby (Everything Now, Red Rose), the film highlights the silent struggles many face and emphasizes the urgent need for better mental health support.
Promoted by West Ham United, Heirlooms aims to start conversations and break the stigma around suicide bereavement. By shedding light on the emotional weight carried by survivors, Suicide&Co hopes to drive change and ensure that no one has to grieve alone.
Image Credit: Suicide & Co
Trend Themes
1. Emotional Storytelling in Short Films - Short films like 'Heirlooms' are using deeply personal narratives to highlight societal issues, fostering empathy and opening dialogues around under-discussed topics such as suicide bereavement.
2. Collaborative Awareness Campaigns - Partnerships between organizations and creative sectors, such as the collaboration between Suicide&Co and VML, are crafting poignant media to spark meaningful conversations and awareness around mental health challenges.
3. Cinematic Mental Health Advocacy - Films specifically targeting mental health issues are emerging as powerful tools to reduce stigma and advocate for enhanced support systems.
Industry Implications
1. Film and Entertainment - The film industry is increasingly serving as a platform for addressing critical social issues, leveraging storytelling to influence public perception and awareness.
2. Mental Health Support Services - Mental health sectors are witnessing a surge in initiatives that integrate multimedia projects to broaden outreach and support networks for those affected by complex issues like suicide.
3. Non-profit and Social Advocacy - Non-profit organizations focused on bereavement and mental health are innovating through media collaborations, offering fresh avenues for raising awareness and creating supportive communities.
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