Scottish Stories

From Glasgow to the Highlands. An eclectic compilation highlighting uniquely Scottish stories from artists working in Scotland. Each piece is deeply rooted in the personal offering profound reflection and meditation on themes of anxiety, health conditions and personal relationships. 

15+

List of films:

Floored d. Fin Bain (Scotland, 2023) 15m

The unlikely bond forged between a raver and the steward who looks after him offers a unique insight into male friendship, advocating for men’s mental health.

So Perfect it Frightens Me d. Alice Cornelia (Scotland, 2020) 6m

An intimate look into a young boy’s mental health struggle, using his obsession with a wind turbine as a surreal and evocative metaphor for his psychological state. Through imaginative landscapes and recurring visual motifs, the film explores the intense nature of childhood obsessions and their emotional impact, creating a space for viewers to experience the boy’s journey alongside him.

There’s Not Much We Can Do d. Erica Monde (Scotland, 2022) 19m

A personal essay documentary juxtaposing the filmmaker’s endometriosis diagnosis with the invasive growth of Japanese Knotweed, highlighting the contrasting responses to both. An ecofeminist meditation on body, biology and care, challenging our perceptions of what is considered ‘natural’.

Four Phonecalls of Anxiety d. Sophie Van Bree (Scotland, 2023) 6m

A phone call between four women in their twenties, dealing with anxiety.

This Werewolf Complex d. Heather E Andrews (Scotland, 2024) 15m

A poignant exploration of auras—sensory, physical and emotional disturbances in the brain that can precede convulsive seizures. Through personal accounts, this experimental short addresses the various forms of auras, the associated social stigma, and their potential to inspire artistic expression.

Broono d. Gerald Lepkowski (Scotland, 2024) 23m

Set in 1970s Glasgow, an unlikely friendship develops between a bereaved 11-year-old lad and the local bully… until tragedy strikes again.

This event is part of the Scottish Mental Health Arts Festival's Focus on Film programme, taking place in Glasgow from 16-19 October.