About ‘Solstice’

When 15 year-old Mary Baker died by suicide her parents embarked on a journey to shine a light on the darkest night of their lives.

‘Solstice’ is a hopeful, determined and positive story of change that can come out of a most heartbreaking tragedy. Beginning with the story of Mary’s parents, Annette and Stuart Baker, the film expands out to journey through Australia and across the globe documenting the stories of those who are daily on the frontline in the battle for better mental health care - the survivors of suicide.

This film bravely steps into the gaping hole left when a person dies by suicide to begin conversations, unite communities and ignite positive change.

REVIEWS

“BRILLIANT and MOVING”

“DEVASTATING and TRIUMPHANT”

“A POWERFUL DOCUMENTARY”

“A clear tender and powerful testament to the human spirit”

- David Astle ABC Radio

‘The film Solstice is a brilliant and moving contribution to our vital need to openly discuss suicide. Everyone concerned about mental health will be engaged and inspired by this story.’

- Sir Graham Thornicroft, United for Global Mental Health

At once devastating and triumphant, Solstice tells the tragic story of Australia’s shadow pandemic: Suicide. Following survivors on their journey of loss and grief, Newman exposes the gaping holes in our health system whilst paying tribute to those who’ve fallen through the cracks. Above all else, Solstice shows the power of community in creating real change. This film should be compulsory viewing for all Australians. 

- Professor Patrick McGorry, Australian for Mental Health

It is such a powerful documentary”…..” The introduction of others who have lost loved ones and community members to suicide is really sensitively done and helped illustrate the breadth of the issue”….”The animation is stunning.”

- Sarah Kline, CEO UNited for Global Mental Health

FILM FESTIVAL AWARDS

Why this film is needed

“Despite progress, one person still dies every 40 seconds from suicide. YET SUICIDES ARE PREVENTABLE”

- WORLD HEALTH ORGANISATION 2019

In Australia approximately 3000 Australians die by suicide each year.

Our mental health system is in crisis and the cost to individuals, families and communities is devastating. We need hear the voices of those most affected by suicide to understand the changes that will be most effective.

‘Solstice’ is a resource to help ignite positive change to mental ill health at every level.

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