Approaches and challenges in the development and production of films related to suicide: qualitative interview study of filmmakers’ perspectives

Abstract

Abstract Background The portrayal of suicide is a common theme in the film industry, and the accurate and safe portrayal is a public health priority. However, insight into how film crews experience the development and production of a short film about suicide is lacking. In a collaboration between researchers and a film team, this study aimed to explore how a film crew developing a short film about suicide developed their script ideas, what they viewed as important, and how the work influenced their mental health. Methods We conducted ten semi-structured interviews with all key members of a film team after the completion of their short film on suicide. The interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. For analysis, we used the documentary method. Results The typical portrayal of suicide in other films was perceived as sensationalist, simplistic, and as a one-way trajectory. The collaboration with the research team allowed the film team a responsible approach without concerns about box-office success. While some film team members reported a negative impact of the film production on their mental health (e.g., depressive mood, brooding, flashbacks), others experienced it positively or described no impact at all. A higher degree of (creative) involvement in the project was perceived to be more strongly associated with negative effects. Participants reported several resilience factors that helped them cope with the task of producing a suicide film, such as distancing and practicing mindfulness. Also, work experience with the topic of suicide was considered helpful. Recommendations for other film teams working on the topic of suicide were developed for each phase of the development and production cycle. Conclusions Media recommendations for portraying suicide in entertainment media might help to inform filmmakers about responsible portrayals of suicide in films. The guidelines could include specific recommendations for filmmakers and their teams to take care of themselves and consider supervision to reduce the burden of working with difficult and sensitive content related to suicide.

The authors' abstract, as published at the source. BMC Public Health, 2026 · DOI ↗