Don't Panic Presents... EVELYN

In support of Mental Health Awareness week, we showcased EVELYN, a film by the Academy Award® winning filmmakers of THE WHITE HELMETS and VIRUNGA. Orlando Von Einsiedel joined us for a post-film Q&A with our MD Joe Wade at Soho House to discuss the emotional risk he took in pursuing such a deeply personal documentary…

EVELYN

On a walking odyssey across the United Kingdom, director Orlando von Einsiedel and his family embark on a journey like none other. In remembrance of their brother and son, Evelyn, they take to the highlands. Evelyn took his own life over a decade ago. Part quest-film, part road-trip, part memoir, EVELYN is a challenging yet uplifting exploration of inner strength and grief. Filmed by an intrepid cameraman using a custom-made rig and monitor, the imagery is as raw as it is real. The film captures boththe dark, unfiltered aftermath of suicide and the beauty of family bonding and support. Although hard-hitting, EVELYN is equally life-affirming.

MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS WEEK

Suicide continues to affect millions of people across the globe. The act takes more lives than war, murder and natural disasters combined.

We asked Orlando what kind of impact he thinks EVELYN has had and if he thought the film was worth the risk in the end. In response to the film, many mental health sufferers actually reached out to Orlando and Violet Films. Many of them expressed how the documentary prevented them from taking their own lives. Others stated how it gave them the strength to talk to people they were worried about; sometimes, all it takes is to remind someone that they’re not alone to save a life. The hole left behind by dear Evelyn will never be filled. Yet, the making of EVELYN shows that there is still light at the end of the tunnel.As an agency, the film reminds us of the importance of taking creative risks in order to raise awareness about such important issues. We’re grateful for Orlando taking the time to talk about his experience of suicide, and inspired by the emotional strength it took for Orlando to produce EVELYN. It’s time to expose the taboos of mental health and encourage more people to reach out for help!If you have been affected by suicide or feel like you know someone who may be in need of help, please don’t suffer in silence. For confidential advice and support, you can call Samaritans, a 24 hour helpline, on: 116 123.For avenues for recovery treatments, resources and immediate assistance to help overcome addiction and mental health issues regarding drug misuse, please visit https://www.rehab4addiction.co.uk/.

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