Guernsey Press

Sell-out premiere for film that challenges stigma of male mental health

A FILMMAKER has been blown away by the response to mental health documentary which premiered to a packed audience of 200 this week.

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Man Down premiered to a packed audience at the PRCPA on Monday evening. (Picture by Adrian Miller, 25803832)

Man Down has men talking about their mental health challenges and how they recovered.

Gaz Papworth of Element Films had originally planned to make a social media film, which would likely have reached a smaller audience. He said he never expected the film to build so much momentum.

‘The main thing was to raise awareness of male mental health,’ he said.

‘I never expected this. I’m very humbled. Everyone is here tonight for the right reasons. It’s OK to talk.’

Suicide is the biggest killer of men between 20 and 50 years old.

Philip Surry from Guernsey Mind said some people had been nervous about speaking out about their mental health, but the creation of informal support group Man Club had really helped.

‘It’s a really powerful statement of what men can do if they have a space to talk,’ he said. ‘As a group, we have seen growth over the last two years.’

He hoped the film would have an impact.

‘Hopefully it can get out there and make a difference to men and male culture,’ he said.

People from all walks of life attended the sell-out premiere at the Princess Royal Centre for the Performing Arts on Monday evening.

Among them were members of the Greenman MCC. Several members took part in the film.

David Ingrouille said they recognised the importance of discussing mental health.

‘I think it’s an important subject,’ he said.

‘It should not be the elephant in the room.’

Mr Surry said they were very grateful for the support from bank Julius Baer.

n Islanders have another another chance to view the film at the centre this Thursday at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £6.50 and the money raised will go towards Guernsey Mind.

Tickets are available from www.guernseytickets.gg.