What does it mean to kick the stigma around mental health? In “Kicking the Stigma,” created via Peter Berg’s Film 47, directed by Berg, and edited by Daniel Luna of bicoastal Union, players and other members of the NFL’s Indianapolis Colts organization share their perspectives, and encourage others to do the same.
Colts center Ryan Kelly comments that, “For me, as a man, it’s about opening up.”
“Not feeling too macho to tell someone when you’re feeling down,” says defensive end Kwity Paye.
“We all deal with stuff,” said Luna, citing bipolar depression in his own family. “Humanity is tough, and I love being able to talk about it. When (Colts’ All-Pro linebacker) Shaquille Darius Leonard says, ‘It’s okay to feel not okay,’ that’s a sentiment that really connects with audiences.” Over the past year, Leonard has spoken extensively about his own struggles adapting to loss of control over life and global events. Luna previously collaborated with Film 47 on the Rivian launch campaign. He is currently editing a longer form (seven minutes) expanded version, to be used in a fundraising effort for Kicking the Stigma.
