"Heroes"

21 November 2021

40s

No more heroes anymore

The label 'hero' is thrown around rather glibly. These days, it's possible to be declared a hero for an act of common decency like helping a stranger in distress or for contracting a disease or – if you happen to be a first responder – simply for doing your job. And, as this film for MIND demonstrates, while it is undoubtedly flattering to be called a 'hero', it can also be a burden.

This is a skilfully undemonstrative piece of work, using its 40" to make its point very quietly. Directors Luke & Joseph have drawn pensive performances from their actors and, in doing so, have successfully driven home the message about the impact on mental health for those trying to live up to an heroic ideal.

There's been a lot of progress in this area over the past decade, and many of the most old-fashioned attitudes have largely been consigned to the past (with remnants remaining only inside the thick skull of Piers Morgan).

It's critical that we keep pushing to make it acceptable for people to seek help when they are struggling, and that we recognise that those who are expected to be 'strong' in all circumstances often subject themselves to unbearable pressure.

This film – short as it is – makes this point with meaningful poignancy, and, because of that, it feels as though it will be just a little bit easier for those impacted by the depicted difficulty to speak up.

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