In the film, darkness is more than an aesthetic
Shadows become a visual representation of isolation and hopelessness, while light becomes a symbol of possibility, connection and finding a way forward.
The project arrives at a time when conversations about mental health are increasingly focused on the importance of listening to people's lived experiences. The 2026 World Mental Health Day theme is "Lived experiences heard: real voices, real change".
For the filmmaker Aaron Hopper, that message is at the heart of the film "Scenes I Never Shot" (SINS).
I left university wanting to make films, but found myself trapped in the daily grind of unrelated jobs and responsibility. There was no time or headspace for the creative process and i felt my chances disappearing because i was so focused on paying bills. I lost a lot of confidence Β
The film also represents the strength of creative talent emerging from the region, with a team combining filmmaking, performance and production skills to tell a story with relevance far beyond the screen.
Gemma Brown, producer and Hull-based creative, says:
The region is full of skilled and talented filmmakers who, for various reasons, haven't been able to get into the industry or maintain consistent work. It can be disheartening. The full production ethos mirrors the narrative of SINS. We made a point to advocate for unknown cast and crew and give them the opportunity to showcase their skills and build a portfolio they can be proud of.
The project has already begun opening up conversations beyond the film itself
Hopper and Brown recently spoke at the first Crying On the Sofa event in Sheffield, an initiative designed to encourage more open conversations about mental health, where they discussed SINS and unveiled the film's trailer.
The filmmakers hope SINS can contribute to a culture in which people feel more able to recognise when they are struggling, talk honestly about it and listen when somebody else does.
World Mental Health Day takes place every year on 10th of October and is an opportunity to talk openly about mental health and listen to what people are experiencing.
SINS is also a reminder that powerful, ambitious filmmaking does not have to come from London or Hollywood.
The project brings together Northern creative talent to create a visually distinctive short film tackling a subject with universal relevance.
Mental health difficulties aren't selective of where you are from. The film industry shouldn't be either. Everyone has the right to be seen, heard, and supported.
- Gemma Brown
According to the producers, the film is currently in post-production, but still fundraising for final expenses. Those who would like to support the production can donate and have their name included in the credits. With the public's support, the producers plan to take the film to festivals, specifically those with a mental health agenda, and spread their message around the UK and further.
Scenes I Never Shot is a short film noir written and directed by Sheffield-based Aaron Hopper. The film explores mental decline, creative isolation and the search for light during a mental health crisis, using the visual language of film noir to represent internal struggle.
The project features Northern creative talent, including Hull producer Gemma Brown, Cinematography by York-based Jay Sillence, Hull actor Haseeb Malik, and Production Design by Hull-based Samantha Howman, who is also involved in the filmmaking team.
UK mental health support information is available through organisations including the Mental Health Foundation and Samaritans. Film and TV Charity provides mental health and wellbeing support to those in film, TV, and cinema.
