Ep 066: Men's Mental Health within the Black Community
Today our special guests are writer/ director Bernard Gray and actor Dwain Murphy. We discussed Men's Mental Health within the Black Community and how they explored this topic in the film, The Other Stuff, which recently premiered at the Reelworld Festival in Toronto. The film offers an honest exploration of how Black men, especially those from environments of crime, straddle the paths of good and evil as they attempt to transition into healthier, more fulfilling lives.
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The film follows Winston played by Dwain Murphy (CROSS, DIGGSTOWN), and Shannon played by Golden Madison (CROSS, LAW & ORDER TORONTO: CRIMINAL INTENT) who embark on a journey of self-discovery through couples therapy before preparing to start a family. However, their journey takes an unexpected and intense turn when Winston’s suppressed childhood trauma surfaces. Under immense emotional strain, Winston confronts his uncle—the source of his abuse—in an effort to find healing and closure. The film highlights the critical role of therapy in helping men face their pain and work through the deep emotional scars that often remain buried.
Content warning: we talk about homophobia and physical and sexual abuse in this episode.
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Music: Deppisch
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ABOUT OUR GUESTS
For more than twelve years, Bernard Gray has been a standout figure in the agency and production industry, consistently producing exceptional work for some of the world's biggest brands like Samsung, Nike, Roots, and the NBA. Now, in his role as a writer/director, he is shaping his legacy by creating compelling stories that captivate audiences. With a portfolio that continues to grow, Bernard has proven himself as a master storyteller. His genuine curiosity and unquenchable thirst for raw authenticity drive him, and his commitment to powerful storytelling and original characters has positioned him among the future filmmakers to watch out for.
Dwain Murphy was born on the “nature isle of the Caribbean” in the commonwealth of Dominica. After coming to Canada with his parents at the age of four, Murphy was persuaded to start acting and graduated with honors from Humber College: Acting for Film and Television program. Over a decade later Dwain has been featured in various US and Canadian productions. He is best known for playing Eric in Degrassi: The Next Generation, Giles in The Line, and Bishop in How She Move. Murphy has made an appearance in Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell: Blacklist doing the voice and physical performance of Isaac Briggs.
REFERENCES
Other episodes you’ll enjoy:
The Big C: Breast Cancer and Mental Health - Episode 058
Causeway and Traumatic Brain Injury - Episode 042
Investigating Inequality Across Film and TV - Episode 041