A new documentary exploring the horror genre’s positive impact on mental health is on the horizon for 2022. Jonathan Barkan, the creator, writer, and director of Mental Health and Horror: A Documentary, seeks to destigmatize general societal thoughts that enjoying horror means there is something wrong with you and hopes to spread how cathartic the genre can be to those who suffer from mental illnesses like depression, severe anxiety, or bipolar disorder.
Recently, the documentary surpassed its $30,000 Kickstarter goal by reaching $48,507 in donations from the film and horror community. On the page, Barkan gave a little more information about his motives for creating this film.
“When the idea of this documentary came into my mind, it refused to let go. I have been dealing with mental illnesses for a long time and horror, which I’ve loved my whole life, has always been there as a means of support. There are two goals with this documentary: the first is to let that person in the middle of nowhere, the one who loves horror but has no support system or access to mental health resources, know that they are not alone. The second goal is to actively fight against the harmful stereotypes and stigmas that our community faces on a daily basis. Horror has been the black sheep of cinema and society for too long. It’s time we show how powerful, important, and helpful the genre can be for countless people around the world.”
Many big names in the horror film world have already joined the documentary, offering insight into how the genre has helped them in their journeys.
These include Linnea Quigley (Return of the Living Dead, Night of the Demons), Kelli Maroney (Night of the Comet, Chopping Mall), Tom McLoughlin (Friday the 13th Part VI), and Felissa Rose (Sleepaway Camp).
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The team behind the film has also vowed to put extra focus into respecting every aspect of the topic, working closely with mental health professionals to ensure that nothing disrespectful or exploitative appears in the film.
Mental Health and Horror: A Documentary is anticipated to be released in the Fall of 2022.
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