What does it really mean to fight your demons? In the short film Fight Your Demons, director Will Dennies brings that struggle to life. Created for the charity Body & Soul and commissioned by Media Trust, the film has recently been announced as a finalist at the Smiley Charity Film Awards 2025.
At its core, Fight Your Demons is about young people facing one of the hardest battles imaginable: life after a suicide attempt. Heartstopper’s Corinna Brown centres this struggle and grounds the story with a beautiful, intimate performance.
The film was made to shine a light on Body & Soul’s You Are Not Alone (YANA) programme, which provides vital support for 16-30-year-olds who have attempted suicide. YANA isn’t just about therapy (though that’s a key part of it). It also offers legal advice, housing and employment support, and a space where young people can connect with others who truly understand what they’re going through.
With its recognition at the Smiley Charity Film Awards, Fight Your Demons is getting the attention it deserves. More importantly, it’s helping to spread awareness about a unique programme that could, and does, genuinely save lives.