Why We Make These Films
We didn’t come from film school.
We didn’t start with industry connections.
We started with a burden—to tell stories that matter.
About the Film Team
The Calm and the Storm was created by a group of self-taught storytellers, clinicians, and advocates who believe story can save lives.
This film brings together Round 7 Productions and New Hope Treatment Centers—two organizations from different worlds, united by a shared mission: to confront suicide with honesty, compassion, and action.
We didn’t come from film school. We came from lived experience, hard conversations, and a desire to make a difference where it matters most.
Our Background
The team behind this film previously created the award-winning short documentary HURT, a project that affirmed what we already believed—when stories are told with care and integrity, they resonate. Check out the HURT Film here.
Round 7 Productions shaped the cinematic and emotional storytelling, while New Hope Treatment Centers ensured the film was grounded in real-world understanding of mental health and crisis care.
About the Creator
The Calm and the Storm is written and executive produced by Matthew C. Simon, a licensed therapist and advocate with years of experience walking alongside individuals and families in crisis.
His work is informed not by theory, but by listening—by honoring stories with responsibility, empathy, and truth.
Meet the Team
Matt Simon
Executive Producer + Writer
Greg Brill
Executive Producer + Co-Director
Greg Brainard
Producer + Editor
Jeremy Kunkle
Co-Director + Director of Photography + Assistant Producer
Patrick Puzzo
Assistant Producer
