Ian Thomson grew up “an urban child of a country family”, looking up to his three cousins living on the land as “tough and capable.”
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Tragically, two of them took their own lives before they reached 25.
“Looking back they were never given a way to express themselves emotionally,” Mr Thomson said.
His short film The Invisible Edge, shot in and around Wagga, explores male suicide and mental health through a tale of two brothers. It’s now a finalist in the international Mindscape Film Festival.
The film was inspired by his personal experience, and the shocking toll of suicide on regional communities.
Suicide rates for 15 to 24-year-olds are at their highest rate in 10 years with youth in regional and remote areas at higher risk.
Mr Thomson believes “narrative fiction can influence social issues.” He hopes the film may be a more subtle medium to encourage conversation and promote awareness of a crippling issue in rural areas.
“In regional areas there can be an avoidance of seeking help as people don’t want to give themselves away,” he said.
“But a film might start a conversation.”
The Invisible Edge features local talent, including Renate Millonig in the role of the mother and extras from CSU’s drama school and has a background of Junee, Illabo, Wagga and The Rock.
The winner will be screened in Los Angeles with 11 other films exploring mental health issues from around the world.
Mr Thomson is hoping to screen the film in the Riverina in the coming months.
If you or anyone you know needs help, you can call:
- MensLine Australia: 1300 78 99 78
- Lifeline: 13 11 14
- Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467
