A TVC developed by suicide prevention charity R U OK? for their 2018 campaign called ‘Signs’has been rolled out across the country, gracing movie theatre screens, television and online media publications.
Produced, directed and edited by Simon Frost and written and developed by Mick Hunter, the piece was inspired by the maiden speech by Member for Berowra, Julian Lesser. Lesser’s speech was a poignant one that focused on the small behavioural signs that were missed in the lead up to his father’s suicide when he was just 20 years old.
“Over the past twenty years I have gone back over the week leading up to my father’s death too many times – and I keep thinking back to the signs he was giving us.”
‘Signs’ reveals a variety of relatable scenarios where the characters are not quite themselves – something’s a bit off with their behaviour.
R U OK? CEO Brendan Maher engaged Frost and Hunter to flesh out the theme and create a moving piece that would act as a subtle reminder to other Australian’s who might also be missing the signs that someone in their world could be struggling.
“This is one of the strongest TVCs R U OK? has launched over the last 10 years. Simon and Mick reallynailed the final piece, especially the small nuances that might indicate something’s not quite right with a friend, loved one or colleague. We couldn’t be happier with it. We’ve had nothing but positive feedback and hope that ‘Signs’ will help change behaviours around checking in with mates and loved ones and prompt us all to be a bit more aware.”
The TVC launched in a two minute, 60 second, 30 second and 15 second iterations and will be screened from August onwards across the country.
The TVC was narrated by R U OK? Ambassador and Australian actor Jack Thompson:
“I was very keen to narrate this production, it’s a powerful piece. I’ve been involved with R U OK? for many years and can’t stress enough the need for us to step up when our mates need it, even if asking the question might feel uncomfortable. I hope Signs acts as a reminder to look a little deeper, trust our instincts and start a conversation any day it’s needed.”
For support at any time of day or night, call Lifeline on 13 11 14. For more info, visit ruok.org.au.