This year’s Canadian Narrative Shorts – Mental Health program at the Vancouver Asian Film Festival (VAFF) features six short films from both emerging and seasoned filmmakers.
For many people in the Asian diaspora (and beyond), talking about mental health with friends and family may be a difficult conversation to have or even begin thinking about. By showcasing mental health through a culturally diverse perspective, these narrative shorts allow viewers to uncover hidden feelings and reflect on their own experiences with mental health.
You can support emerging Asian Canadian filmmakers by purchasing your ticket for a virtual viewing anytime from November 6 to 12.
Discover up-and-coming Canadian filmmakers and creatives featured at the VAFF 2023 today.
Mental Health films to watch at the 27th annual Vancouver Asian Film Festival
Rock the Cradle, directed by Asis Sethi
Synopsis: When a new South Asian mother, gives birth, she realizes she may be stuck in a place of darkness, without knowing how to get out. Be it her struggles with breastfeeding or the crippling anxiety that something can happen to her newborn, Pari soon dissolves into her puddle of grief.
Follow the multi-talented director Asis Sethi on Instagram for behind the scenes and industry extras.
Yun, directed by Yuezhang Qin
Synopsis: Yun is a poignant short drama delving into concealed emotions, portraying a girl’s inner struggles as tangible clouds. Through innovative visuals and a bystander’s lens, it unveils the universal weight we all carry, ultimately reshaping our lives.
Watch the teaser here.
Wallpaper, directed by Tanya Jade
Synopsis: A young woman, Dionne, lets her friend crash on her couch after a night of drinking. She later wakes to him looming over her in bed. Swept up in a jarring dance, Dionne’s sense of security unravels. After he leaves, she tries to process this encounter that affects her future.
Learn more about Wallpaper here.
Revelations, directed by Chara Ho
Synopsis: Two strangers at a church drive-through confession forge an unlikely connection over a game of Truth or Dare, spiraling from awkward small talk to deep emotional territory threatening to unmask dark truths to each other.
Follow Chara Ho, Toronto-based filmmaker, producer, and multi-disciplinary artist on Instagram.
See also: Naomi Osaka’s precedent for mental health in sports for Asian diaspora
Aftershock, directed by Cyrus Lo
Synopsis: June, homebound due to the pandemic, is a recluse who has learned to thrive off the little pleasures of her home and lonely daily routines. But when an old friend reappears, June must choose whether to break free from the safety of her controlled sanctuary, or retreat further within herself.
Aftershock is director Cyrus Lo’s debut film. Follow the short fim’s Instagram to stay tuned for more screenings.
Dati, directed by Isabelle Leonardo-Cruz
Synopsis: After the sudden passing of his grandmother, Josh is tasked with keeping his grandfather, Rodolfo, in the dark until the rest of the family comes home. However, Rodolfo’s escalating dementia makes it a more challenging task than Josh anticipates.
Learn more about the film here.
Viewers can get access to these short films by buying a virtual screening ticket between November 2 to 12.
Cold Tea Collective is proud to be a media partner for the 27th Annual Vancouver Asian Film Festival. Come find us at this year’s events and let us know what films resonate with you and tag us on Instagram (@coldteacollective) for a chance to win a limited edition Cold Tea Collective tote bag.
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