Macario de Souza’s In Pieces Together follows Blake Johnston’s record-breaking mission to spark conversation about mental health

Blake Johnston.

From award-winning Bra Boys director Macario de Souza, In Pieces Together follows Blake Johnston’s record-breaking surf and mission to spark a national conversation about mental health and suicide.

Hype Republic has released the official trailer for Australian documentary, In Pieces Together, written, directed and produced by two-time AACTA award winning filmmaker Macario de Souza (Bra Boys, 6 Festivals, Fighting Fear), narrated by Luke Hemsworth and following 3 x world record breaker, endurance surfer, mental health advocate and Blake Johnston.

In Pieces Together centres on Johnston’s incredible attempt to break the world-record for the longest continuous surf – a 40-hour effort undertaken to honour the 10-year anniversary of his father’s death by suicide.

What begins as a deeply personal challenge evolves into a broader story of family reconnection, community support and the positive impact of shared experiences and collective action.

In Pieces Together features powerful contributions from a range of Australian voices, including: NRL great and Fox Sports commentator Braith Anasta, The Inspired Unemployed’s Matt Ford and Jack Steele , NRL player Connor Watson, pro surfer Koda Killorn, TV journalist Laura Jayes, podcaster, sports presenter & First Nations media advocate Marlee Silva, tattoo artist Gummy Johnston, musician Kobie Dee, broadcaster and Life Without Andy co-founder Mitch Tomlinson and Australian of the Year psychiatrist Professor Pat McGorry and more.

Many participants are part of the In Pieces Together community, marked by individual puzzle piece tattoos that form a larger image, symbolic of support, connection and collective.

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Filmmaker Macario de Souza said the project was driven by both personal experience and a desire to create meaningful social impact.

“I met Blake when I was processing my own challenges and was inspired by the way he navigated mental health struggles with honesty and purpose,” de Souza said. “The film is about opening up better conversations that people, especially men struggle to have.” 

Luke Hemsworth said he was drawn to the film’s message. ” It’s beautiful, inspiring, and heartbreaking and I am stoked to be a part of it. It was something I needed to be part of. If I can help by lending my time and voice, then great, it’s a blessing.”

Blake Johnston said In Pieces Together reflects a broader community message beyond his own story.

“This journey started from a deeply personal place, but these struggles aren’t unique to me. At the heart of this film is a simple belief – everyone deserves to feel awesome. If it can shift the way we talk about mental health, even just a little, and inspire people to reconnect, ask for help, or support someone else, then that ripple effect could be life-changing.”

The soundtrack features Australian artists from Sony Music Publishing’s premium roster, keen to throw their support behind the film’s message including Xavier Rudd, Grinspoon, Hermitude, Big Scary, Little May, Tony Snowdon, Kobie Dee and Kid Mac, alongside global icon Fred Again, who was the first to back the project.

In Pieces Together will premiere on Fox Sports available on Kayo Sports and Foxtel, as well as BINGE at 8.30pm AEST on May 13.

Content Warning This film discusses intentional self -harm (suicide) and mental health struggles.
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