University teams up with The Thirsty Poet to spread mental health messages

Students, staff and alumni from our BA Film Production course worked with Matt, also known as The Thirsty Poet, on the project, creating a four-minute film.

The release of the project coincided with Suicide Prevention Month in September as the poem explores themes surrounding mental health issues and stresses the importance of checking in on friends.

Checkmate uses chess to communicate its message. Matt decided to do this because he said he struggles to understand the rules of chess, and because he views it as ‘a silent, pressuring and stressful game.’

He believes that this is like the mental games humans play with their own minds. The poem uses chess references such as “you’re my king”, “I’m starting to suspect mate, that you’re playing a difficult game” and “so now it’s time I think I checked, mate”, to encourage readers and viewers to encourage friends to speak about their feelings.

Aarif Laljee, Lecturer in Film Production, oversaw the project as producer and director. He said: “It’s a great example of students, graduates and staff working together on something that extends beyond the classroom.

“It’s a simple idea, but a powerful one, and Matt’s words carry real emotion from beginning to end. I wanted to help translate that into a film that would connect with people and encourage those conversations.

Tom Kelly, graduated from his course in 2025 and worked on the project as an assistant cameraman. He said: “It was really moving, and an all-round perfect piece to work on.

“Matt was interested in every part of the production, trusting the pre-production Aarif had worked on whilst bringing his own interpretations. It was really nice to help work on a project from a local talent like Matt.

“I’m proud to have been part of a project that speaks volumes about suicide, especially from a male point of view as issues of mental health are very high among male demographics.”

Fellow 2025 graduate, Cheyenne Christie, worked as a production and costume designer for the project. She reflected on why she chose to get involved, saying: “I want to be a part of films that are personal and meaningful. In the age of AI, we’re starting to lose that a little.”

“Everyone on set was happy to share their feelings. It made me feel really proud to be a part of this.”

The other crew members involved were Luke Hearne-Brown (Director of Photography), Joshua Vouros (Sound), Ed Hick (Editor/Colourist), Georgia Nuttall (Behind-the-scenes photography), and Celia Bennett (Behind-the-scenes video).