What price are your dreams worth? Why Capricorn One Inspires

In episode nine of the Movie Health Podcast, Kathryn Guestre talks with Jack Short owner of Sydney Centre for Creative Change.

Jacki provides support and training to mental health professionals who struggle to engage clients and evoke change using talk-only therapies. Jacki helps counsellors feel confident using creative therapies through online training in art, play, drama, storytelling and sand-tray therapies. With over 30 years as a counselling psychologist, play therapist and adult educator, Jacki is passionate about supporting others to find creative ways to express, explore and resolve difficulties and grow strengths and capacity in ways that go deeper than words.

We learn about Jacki’s favourite movie, “Capricorn One”, and the film inspires her values of integrity and justice.

Jacki's Favourite Movie

Capricorn One (1977) | PG-13 | 2h 3m

When the first manned flight to Mars is deemed unsafe and scrubbed on the launch pad, anxious authorities must scramble to save face and retain their funding – and so an unthinkable plot to fake the mission is hatched.

Summary available from i md

Movie Discussion

In episode ten of the Movie Health Podcast, host Kathryn engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Jacki Short, the owner and director of the Sydney Centre for Creative Change. Jacki, a seasoned counselling psychologist and play therapist, shares her insights about her favourite movie, “Capricorn One,” and its profound impact on her. This podcast episode offers a glimpse into Jacki’s connection with the film and delves into the movie’s themes and relevance in today’s context.

The movie discussion centres on the enduring impact and relevance of the movie “Capricorn One.” It explores the film’s timeless themes of honesty, integrity, and trust while highlighting its portrayal of media manipulation and deception. It underlines the evolution of perspectives, emphasising changing societal norms and staying true to one’s values.

Jacki begins by reflecting on the challenge of selecting a single favourite movie when there are so many beloved choices. However, “Capricorn One” holds a special place in her heart, sparking nostalgia for her childhood. It was the first adult film she had watched, and the excitement and growth it brought remained vivid in her memory.

The movie revolves around the premise of faking a manned mission to Mars, and Jacki finds it enthralling for several reasons. She discusses her fascination with the film’s honesty, integrity, and trust themes, which have become increasingly significant to her as she ages. The movie’s exploration of the price of dreams, the pursuit of integrity, and the potential consequence of misinformation resonates deeply with her.

As the conversation unfolds, Jacki and Kathryn discuss the character dynamics in the film, particularly the journalist’s journey in uncovering the truth. The film’s portrayal of media manipulation, scrutiny, and deception strikes a chord with both, considering its relevance in the current age of fake news and corporate influence.

Jacki shares her admiration for the character development in the movie, emphasising the importance of staying true to one’s values and not compromising them. She appreciates the film’s open-ended conclusion, recognising that it mirrors the uncertainty and complexity of life, where justice isn’t always guaranteed.

The discussion takes an interesting turn as Jacki highlights the evolution of her perspective from the first time she watched the film to now. She acknowledges the film’s outdated elements and the changes in her expectations and standards for cinematic effects. Additionally, she comments on the portrayal of female characters in the film, noting the limitations and stereotypes prevalent during its release.

In conclusion, Jacki and Kathryn are fond of the film’s unique blend of humour, action, adventure, and suspense. They commend its ability to tackle relevant and thought-provoking themes that still resonate with audiences today.

Tips for Mental Health

Jacki’s tips for mental health emphasise the importance of caring for your physical health, finding your purpose, and engaging in creative and grounding activities to support your mental well-being. Here are Jacki’s main mental health tips:

Prioritise Physical Health: Start with the basics of maintaining a healthy body, which is crucial for mental well-being. Focus on getting enough sleep, staying hydrated, maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in gentle exercise, and spending time in nature.
Social Connection: Stay socially connected in a way that is manageable and appropriate for you. Building and nurturing relationships can have a positive impact on mental health.
Purpose and Meaning: Reflect on your sense of meaning and purpose in life. You can simplify your life when you feel overwhelmed and focus on what brings you joy and a reason to get out of bed.
Creativity for Mental Health: Engage in creative outlets, such as writing, drawing, dancing, or artistic expression. These activities can provide a sense of joy, calm, and meaning.
Establish Positive Habits: Building positive habits during good mental health is crucial. These habits can serve as a support system during challenging times.
Diversity of Interests: Explore a range of activities and interests that resonate with you. It doesn’t have to align with societal expectations but should bring you joy and calm.
Simplify and Reevaluate: Your life, goals, dreams, and values regularly. This process can help you stay focused on what truly matters to you.
Engage in Nature: Spending time in nature, even in simple activities like gardening, can be grounding and beneficial for mental well-being.
Consider Your Why: Continuously reflect on your purpose and what drives you. This self-examination can help you navigate life’s challenges.
Therapeutic Value of Movies: Different people react differently to movies, and horror films can be deeply unsettling for some. Movies can offer a container for experiencing heightened emotions, but one must consider one’s response to different genres.