Unseen Scars

This is a powerful film that does an admirable job of capturing some of the subtleties and less commented upon aspects of PTSD, and the reintegration challenges of returning combat veterans, in relation to themselves and their loved ones. Please know that this is a deeply personal project for the Director. In 2013, he lost a very dear friend-a combat veteran-to suicide. He then collaborated with fellow surviving friends, who are themselves combat veterans, that have struggled with mental health and reintegration challenges, as well as their partners, to develop a realistic narrative. To be clear, this film is not at all a biopic about the Director's departed friend, and it does not tell the story of any one veteran in particular. It was poignantly written to accurately reflect an amalgam of common but perhaps not adequately understood difficulties experienced by veterans, their families, and friends.

In a word, I found Unseen Scar utterly compelling (the themes explored but also the way it was directed and filmed). My favourite go-to search term for film is 'gritty British drama', so I was captivated from the start. I would add that the film was also very relatable from a therapist's perspective, having worked with both PTSD and suicidal ideation for a few decades now, including with a small number of soldiers. Dr. Kasia Wilk's underpinning philosophy around choice and autonomy shines through.

It met all of my high expectations, given all of the talented professionals involved in its creation.

Such an incredibly poignant film that is not only incredibly well written, graciously acted by Andrew Lee Potts and cinematically shot - it's an important film that should be watched by everyone.

Its importance serves as a right of passage by writer/director Carl Mackenzie, who's continued work to highlight the stories of not only those serving or have served but of male mental health which is so often not portrayed on screen.

Ideally, it would be great if more films like this were out in the world to educate men that they are not alone and to reach out when needed. We need to stop the stigma of asking for hellp as being a bad thing.

Unseen Scars is a deeply moving exploration of the silent toll PTSD takes on veterans. The film follows James, a returning soldier who struggles to reconnect with the world around him, particularly his wife, Sarah. His internal battle is beautifully portrayed through powerful performances, capturing the isolation and tension that come with trying to hide his trauma. The cinematography and direction are subtle yet effective, amplifying the emotional weight of the story. This film offers a compelling, honest look at the unseen wounds of war and the strength needed to heal. A must-see for its heartfelt storytelling and raw authenticity.

Unseen Scars is a gripping, authentically acted film that shines a light on a truth many live with but few dare to speak about.

While the story centres on a war veteran grappling with PTSD, its themes are universal. We all carry invisible wounds from the past - and this film reminds us just how common and complex those inner battles can be.

The performances are powerfully realistic, to the point where it feels less like a film and more like a documentary. Nothing is overdone or sensationalised. Instead, it trusts the audience to sit with the silence, the tension, and the raw humanity that unfolds. The emotion is real, and it lingers.

The message at the heart of Unseen Scars is not only important - it's vital. It encourages openness, vulnerability, and the courage to seek help. It reinforces a powerful truth: that no matter what we've been through, we still have choices, and those choices can lead to healing.

I was fortunate enough to attend the film's premiere, where hearing directly from the producer, director, and cast only deepened my appreciation. It was clear that every person involved cared deeply about the film's message, and that sincerity radiates through every scene.

If you're looking for a film that moves you, challenges you, and truly matters - Unseen Scars is it.