Salih Ertas

After falling into a coma, Will wakes in a prison of his own body. Despite his cognitive abilities being fully intact, he's paralyzed and unable to communicate. While his family struggles with the financial consequences of his situation, Will remains trapped in silence: Unseen, unheard, and unable to show his presence.

Locked-in syndrome (LiS) is a rare and serious condition that develops when a part of the brain stem is damaged, usually through a stroke. People with LiS are fully paralyzed, but retain their consciousness and normal cognitive abilities. Most people with LiS are able to communicate with eye movements and lead meaningful lives.

UNSEEN is a short animation inspired by true stories of people with LiS, among others the experiences of Martin Pistorius (Documented with Megan Lloyd Davies) and Jean-Dominique Bauby. The film explores the power of determination in times of despair and uncertainty. Like a lighthouse stands steadfast in a storm, hope is a guide through the darkness.