My Suicide Story
Real Suicide Survivors. Real Stories.
Interview with Director/Producer Joe Massa
Watch My Suicide Story here:
Congratulations! Why did you make your film?
I didn’t plan on this becoming a series, actually. I have a friend who told me his story of survival and I thought to myself “we should put this out there for the world to see.” Ever since I made the first episode I have had others come forward asking to tell their stories.
Imagine I’m a member of the audience. Why should I watch this film?
You should watch this film because this is something that I feel needs to be seen. Even if you aren’t suffering from depression or anxiety or suicidal thoughts, other people are and I think it’s important to understand and familiarize ourselves with the way they’re hurting.
How do personal and universal themes work in your film?
I was obviously personally affected by my friend’s story. I saw a correlation between the things that he was saying and the things that other survivors were telling me and realized that most of them have overlapping feelings or emotions.
What type of feedback have you received so far?
An IMMENSE amount of positive feedback. From all over. Survivors, families of those who did not survive, schools, support groups, non-profits. It seems that spreading awareness for this subject is something that is pushed to the side and people are very happy to see this type of work being created.
Has the feedback surprised or challenged your point of view?
The feedback is great. What has challenged my point of view is feedback from the parents of those who have succeeded in their suicide attempts. I have had several parents come forward asking to be in an episode of their own so that they can tell other people what it’s like after their child takes their own life. For me this is the hardest part because you can really see the hurt that they have experienced and continue to experience.
What are you looking to achieve by having your film more visible on www.wearemovingstories.com?
All I am looking to achieve is to help spread awareness. The more people that see this series the more of a chance there is that someone can relate to what’s being said.
Who do you need to come on board (producers, sales agents, buyers, distributors, film festival directors, journalists) to amplify this film’s message?
Everyone and anyone. There is power in numbers.
What type of impact and/or reception would you like this film to have?
My goal in creating this series is to help those suffering. I believe that if even one person can watch this series and relate to what’s being said, then maybe they will realize they are not alone in the way that they feel and hopefully it will deter them from making the same mistake so many others have made.
What’s a key question that will help spark a debate or begin a conversation about this film?
Is depression a disease?
Would you like to add anything else?
I would just like to thank everyone who has viewed or shared this series. I would also like to thank everyone who has stepped forward to share their stories. You are all very brave.
Interview: February 2019
We Are Moving Stories embraces new voices in drama, documentary, animation, TV, web series, music video, women's films, LGBTQIA+, POC, First Nations, scifi, supernatural, horror, world cinema. If you have just made a film - we'd love to hear from you. Or if you know a filmmaker - can you recommend us? More info: Carmela
My Suicide Story
Real Suicide Survivors. Real Stories.
Director: Joe Massa
Producer: Joe Massa
About the writer, director and producer:
JOE MASSA is a filmmaker from Connecticut. He is the creator of My Suicide Story.
Facebook: This is My Suicide Story
Twitter: @joeymassa
Instagram: @joemassa AND @my.suicide.story
Other: YouTube