Flatground

Daniel, a tormented teenager suffering from a recent trauma finds himself at his usual skate spot with his so-called friends. After an attempt to find reassurance in his peer, he is shut down and forced to suppress his affliction. He then tries to recollect his masculinity through a transparent interaction with a girl, Emily, who is seemingly interested in him. When she sees through his lustful intentions, his attempt fails. He pushes his defeat aside and skates with his friends. Subsequently, Emily overhears a conversation revealing Daniel’s truth – His mother’s suicide. A rise in tension occurs whilst the boys skate as Daniel holds a grudge against his peer. In a release of pent up anger and guilt, Daniel lashes out at his peer, solely with the intention for him to react and attack him. After a short brawl and now sympathising with Daniel, Emily stays sat as everyone else disperses. After some time, Emily gets up and walks over to Daniel in the empty car park. She helps him up and they walk away side-by-side. We watch the empty car park. Statistics for male suicide rates materialise on the screen, warning of the alarming realities of toxic masculinity.

Directed by Shay Kelly (UK)