Unseen Scars

This is a powerful film that does an admirable job of capturing some of the subtleties and less commented upon aspects of PTSD, and the reintegration challenges of returning combat veterans, in relation to themselves and their loved ones. Please know that this is a deeply personal project for the Director. In 2013, he lost a very dear friend-a combat veteran-to suicide. He then collaborated with fellow surviving friends, who are themselves combat veterans, that have struggled with mental health and reintegration challenges, as well as their partners, to develop a realistic narrative. To be clear, this film is not at all a biopic about the Director's departed friend, and it does not tell the story of any one veteran in particular. It was poignantly written to accurately reflect an amalgam of common but perhaps not adequately understood difficulties experienced by veterans, their families, and friends.

Unseen Scars is a profound exploration of the invisible wounds of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) that many veterans carry long after their service ends. This short delivers a narrative that is both intimate and universal, shedding light on the massively overlooked psychological battles faced by returning servicemen.

What sets it apart is its authenticity. Mackenzie, drawing from personal experiences and extensive interviews with veterans and their families, crafts a script that resonates with genuine emotion and realism.

This was further validated at an exclusive premiere with veterans commenting on the authenticity. Not only this veterans opened up about their own experiences which I felt was very commendable. It also highlighted the lack of support our veterans receive when returning to civilian life.

The acting, production and direction throughout Unseen Scars is excellent. Every performance is authentic and incredibly believable. A must watch.

Thank you to all involved in making this important film.

In a word, I found Unseen Scar utterly compelling (the themes explored but also the way it was directed and filmed). My favourite go-to search term for film is 'gritty British drama', so I was captivated from the start. I would add that the film was also very relatable from a therapist's perspective, having worked with both PTSD and suicidal ideation for a few decades now, including with a small number of soldiers. Dr. Kasia Wilk's underpinning philosophy around choice and autonomy shines through.

It met all of my high expectations, given all of the talented professionals involved in its creation.

Unseen Scars is a masterfully crafted short film that delves deep into the silent battles faced by returning veterans grappling with PTSD. Director Carl Mackenzie delivers a poignant narrative that is both heart-wrenching and hopeful, shedding light on the often-overlooked struggles of those transitioning back to civilian life.

What makes Unseen Scars so impactful is its raw emotional honesty and subtle storytelling. The film avoids clichés and instead opts for a grounded, realistic tone that never feels forced or exaggerated.

The cinematography is striking, capturing the emotional landscape of the characters with sensitivity and nuance. Every frame is meticulously composed, enhancing the narrative's emotional impact.

Unseen Scars is not just a film; it's a powerful commentary on the human condition, resilience, and the transformative power of empathy. It's a must-watch for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by veterans and the importance of mental health awareness.

Kudos to the entire team for bringing this vital story to the screen with such authenticity and compassion.

A heart moving and beautifully nuanced film that brings light to the psychological and emotional traumas war veterans and their families continue to battle years after their horrifying experience.

Unseen Scars, transcends the story of PTSD and will without doubt leave you reflecting on the importance of treasuring our mental health. It subtly reminds us that the people we encounter, throughout our day to day, may be going through a lot more than what appears on the surface. Sparking a poignant, yet necessary, seed for us to reflect on what more we can do as society.

Such a powerful story that deserves the time.