About this Short Film
Unclean, directed by Jessica Gould, is a 2025 Australian short screening in Focus on Ability. The film takes a sensitive look at mental health, OCD and how young adults relate to each other in group settings. Quiet and observant, it notices small moments that reveal strain, care and resilience without making grand statements. Presented as part of our programme that highlights the abilities, experiences and achievements of people with disability, Unclean creates space for reflection and conversation about mental illness and support. It is a thoughtful, human short that will linger with audiences interested in personal stories and community.
Film Details
Film Transcript
"Hi, Ted." "Hi, Patty. How's the isolation going?" "Well, I'm still sane after 16 days, so that's good." "Why are you making all those weird facial expressions?" "I can't. I got an itchy face and I can't touch it." "Don't be ridiculous, Patty. Rules are rules."
"You know, have you spoken to Ruth recently?" "Well, I am going to speak to her tomorrow." "Okay, good. You don't want to relapse what happened last time, right?" "Yes." "She's calling. Hello." "Hello, Patty. How have you been feeling recently?" "Yeah, pretty good considering we're in an epidemic." "How are you coping with your OCD symptoms?" "Well, I have been washing my hands a lot, but they did say I could do that on the news, remember?" "I hope you haven't been overdoing it, Patty. Have you been able to get outside for any exercise and practise your social distancing?" "I haven't been out for 17 days." "Oh dear."
"Well, Patty, I'm worried about you." "Why are you worried about me?" "I thought that would be obvious." "No, it isn't. Please explain." "Well, let's put it this way. You live alone and yet you're wearing an isolation mask in your own home." "Yeah, but I could have the virus. I mean, how do you know if I don't? I could give it to anyone." "This is your OCD playing up. You need to get help." "Oh, yeah. Well, prove it. How many times have you washed your hands today?" "About five to 16 times." "See, what did I tell you? This is your OCD. It's causing major problems. It's going to ruin your life." "Seriously, is that really necessary right now?" "There was a smudge on the screen. Do you know how many germs there could be on this thing from my fingerprints? And do you know how long the virus lasts on your phone? I mean, I could have it right now."
"Look, Patty, I gotta go. My dad's calling me." "Well, that's good because I need to wash my hands because I touched his phone."
Today's top story: millions of homes throughout the greater Brisbane region are experiencing water shortages, raising fears about how to maintain basic hygiene practices in light of the recent masupial flu epidemic. The health minister has advised not to make any unnecessary contact with anything or anyone until the problem has been successfully resolved.
"Hey, Patty, looks like you're in the ... now, huh?"
Attention. Don't touch anything.
Filmmaker
Jessica Gould is the filmmaker behind this entry. See every Focus on Ability entry from Jessica Gould.
