The story
An observational documentary.
Ricky Banner, a former Sergeant in the Irish Guards, sustained life-changing injuries from stepping on an IED in Afghanistan. Enduring personal loss, and witnessing the devastating impact of family and fellow soldier's suicides on his mental health, Ricky set up Discomfort Zone, where he now leads free outdoor programs in Snowdonia, supporting men's mental health issues and challenging the stigma.
“My life was a mess. I was depressed and looking for comfort in all the wrong places. But fitness turned it all around. Now, I'm starting a movement that harnesses the power of fitness, the outdoors, and the nurturing strength of men supporting men.”
Ricky Banner
In Ricky's own words
My life was a mess. I was depressed and looking for comfort in all the wrong places. But fitness turned it all around. It was fitness that lifted the dark clouds, fitness that showed me the way to purpose, and purpose that led me to joy. Now, I'm starting a movement.
It's a movement that harnesses the power of fitness, the outdoors, and the nurturing strength of men supporting men. Together, we're tackling the taboo of mental health, creating a space for men to relate, to support, and to heal.
My journey took me from being an off-the-rails teen dad to becoming a champion of mental and physical wellness. Along the way, I served as a decorated Irish Guard and an inspirational mentor to teenagers. Now, I'm determined to help other men find the same purpose and joy that I've discovered. I know it's possible, because I've done it.
My own story shows the power of finding the bravery to push out of our comfort zones and discover what's possible beyond them. In April 2024, I launched the first event in this movement's journey: Discomfort Zone, a three-day fitness and wellbeing event for men.
About the director
James Bowers
Trained at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art.
Mental health issues affect millions of people in the UK, including myself. I have been on a long, and continuing journey of learning and re-assessment. For these reasons I feel that I connect with the amazing vision that Ricky Banner has with Discomfort Zone. Hearing Ricky's story, having met the man, I had no doubt that I wanted to try and do something to help get his message and idea into the public domain. I feel what Discomfort Zone offers to mental health sufferers is unparalleled, and I will do what I can in making this documentary a reality. It's a privilege to know Ricky and to be able to support and promote what he is trying to achieve with Discomfort Zone.
Selected credits
Theatre
The Cherry Orchard, Harrogate Theatre
Having A Ball, Harrogate Theatre
On the Road to Jerusalem, New End Theatre
Crash, UK Tour
Rupert Street Lonely Hearts Club, UK Tour, Donmar Warehouse, Criterion West End
Film
Let Him Have It
Young Soul Rebels, Critics Award, Cannes Film Festival
Television
Moll Flanders
Dangerous Lady
Daylight Robbery
Waking the Dead
Drop the Dead Donkey
EastEnders, Bob Mathews
Why we need you
Discomfort Zone Fundraising film
Why your support matters, in Ricky and James's own words.
Funding promise
At the heart of this production are quality and fairness. Ricky's incredible story deserves to be told in the most compelling way possible. We're also deeply committed to ensuring fair compensation for every member of the crew involved.