The Promise

Yep, I'm calling this Australia's best documentary and for a number of reasons.

Firstly, the importance of documenting the mental health landscape in Australia at this time in history is truly important and for such a large, complex topic taking on a story like this is extremely bold. The Promise couldn't have tackled this topic any better and I think it's in the way it's been created.

For such a heavy topic I can't believe there were times I actually laughed. The pacing and balance of lighthearted moments to the serious and heart moving bits was perfect. I felt like I was taken on a journey and was guided with love the entire time.

The work that Craig Hamilton has done is trailblazing. He has paved the way for many Australians and now telling his story on screen really speaks to his dedication and loyalty for rewriting the narrative around the Australian health crisis

I'm so happy this documentary was made.

It's very rarely that I'll watch a documentary. I stumbled across this after watching the director's first feature film. For a young man I find it quite fascinating how he's drawn to such complex social issues but I give it to him that he tackles him head on.

This documentary is not a fun watch, but it is a very necessary watch. My heart goes out to anyone who has struggled with mental health and even more so now after watching this. I have a deeper understanding of mental health and suicidal tendencies, so yes I think this documentary has done its job.

Very impressed with the quality of this documentary. The picture and sound is just phenomenal. I felt like I was watching a Hollywood film at times.

I had the privilege of attending a Q&A night with Craig and Jye. It's been four days now and I haven't stopped thinking about this movie.

There's really a lot to unpack here, there are a lot of layers and a lot of emotions, on the night of the screening I found a quite challenging to hear some of the stories in the documentary but I know how important stories like this are.

I can see this film becoming the next "rabbit proof fence" which they teach in schools.

If you are going through any mental health challenges I suggest watching this with a friend. If you have someone in your life you can decode this film with after that would be quite the experience.

I am a massive fan of documentaries, and love a good Aussie one. Unfortunately finding a good Aussie one is quite a challenge. It's not very often we see an original Australian documentary and this has absolutely just hit the mark.

Yes, it is a suicide prevention Film. Yes, it is a very big topic but wow did the filmmakers. Do a great job. Hats of to the Director Jye Currie for taking on such a film. I think the story structure was really strong! The message in the end was very powerful and the music was next to none.

DP done well in marking this feel like a proper international film (most Australian films feel Aussie).

Justin was an incredible speaker, I could really listen to him all day, his outlook and way with his words was captivating. But the people who spoke about their lost ones were the real asset.

Tonight I attended The Promise screening at Orange. I travelled 40 minute to be there and I needed it. I'm a big movie fan but not much gets me out of the house. I live out in a property and very often feel isolated. I have just overcame my own battles and mental health challenges. I still feel very alone but after tonight I feel connected. I feel more connected to Australia knowning how many other people feel as I do and I feel more connected to my community here in Orange. Tonight has motivated me to push forward and be the best I can be.

Thank you for making an honest movie and I encourage every Australian to take the time to watch this, especially the next generation!