OPTIONS The Film - Veteran-Led Short Film

    OPTIONS
    THE FILM

    A veteran-led short film confronting suicide, silence, and the life-saving power of one more choice.

    Built by veterans, for veterans, families, advocates, and communities who believe hope deserves a louder voice.

    Immediate Crisis Support

    If you or someone you know is in crisis, call 988 and Press 1, text 838255, or visit the Veterans Crisis Line.

    Why OPTIONS Exists

    Every veteran carries a story. Some stories are visible. Others stay locked behind silence, grief, trauma, transition, isolation, or the pressure to "stay strong." OPTIONS was created to open a conversation before a crisis becomes permanent. Through cinematic storytelling, veteran voices, and community outreach, this film is designed to remind viewers that one honest conversation, one phone call, one pause, or one person reaching out can change the outcome.

    The Project

    About the Film

    OPTIONS is a veteran-led film project built to raise awareness around veteran suicide prevention, emotional crisis, hope, camaraderie, family, and the importance of asking for help. Created entirely by veterans, it aims to authentically represent the struggles many face and the profound impact of reaching out.

    Read The Full Mission
    OPTIONS The Film Behind the Scenes

    The Mission

    Turning a cinematic experience into a movement for life and hope.

    Start the Conversation

    Breaking the silence around mental health and creating safe spaces for veterans to share their stories without judgment.

    Support Veterans & Families

    Providing a cinematic mirror to the struggles of transition, reminding veterans and their families that they are never alone.

    Turn Awareness Into Action

    Inspiring communities to actively engage, support local veteran organizations, and learn how to intervene when someone is in crisis.

    Support the Film

    Join the mission. Your support helps fund production, post-production, outreach, and distribution to get this message where it's needed most.

    Emergency Resources

    If you are in immediate danger or thinking about suicide, call 911 now.

    For confidential support, call 988 and Press 1, text 838255, or visit the Veterans Crisis Line.

    This film is an awareness project and is not a substitute for emergency, medical, or mental health care.

    Press & Media

    OPTIONS is a veteran-led short film confronting suicide, silence, and the life-saving power of one more choice.

    Our mission is to foster open dialogue within the veteran community and beyond, utilizing cinematic storytelling as a catalyst for awareness and intervention.

    Community Screenings

    Future screenings, veteran organization partnerships, community events, and sponsor-hosted viewing opportunities will be announced soon.

    Bring the mission to your community. Partner with us to host an impactful event.

    Inquire About Hosting

    The Writers

    The creative minds behind the powerful message of OPTIONS.

    Meet the Full Cast & Crew
    John Lewandowski
    USMC

    John Lewandowski

    Writer/Director/Producer

    Jeff Lane
    USA

    Jeff Lane

    Writer/Director/Producer

    Eleanor Nesimoglu
    USMC

    Eleanor Nesimoglu

    Writer

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Learn more about the project, the mission, and how you can help.