Riley Keough and Clay Tweel Join Psychedelic Therapy Doc 'Under Fire'

Actor and producer Riley Keough, alongside director Clay Tweel, has officially boarded Brandon Kapelow’s upcoming documentary "Under Fire" as executive producers. The project sheds light on the often-overlooked mental health struggles faced by first responders, focusing specifically on the deeply personal journey of Rob, a veteran fire captain in Idaho.

Rob has spent decades dedicating his life to answering emergencies and saving others. However, the cumulative psychological toll of this high-stress profession eventually followed him home, severely straining his future and threatening his relationship with his teenage daughter. In a desperate bid to reclaim his life and mental well-being, Rob turns to unconventional treatment: psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy.

"Under Fire" represents Brandon Kapelow’s feature-length directorial debut. The documentary builds upon his award-winning New York Times Op-Docs short film titled "An Act of Service." Produced by Laurel Thomson for Long Holiday, the documentary is slated to make its rounds at various fall film festivals as a sales title, accompanied by a targeted impact campaign designed to spark wider conversations about mental healthcare.

The film addresses a severe mental health crisis plaguing first responder communities across the United States. Kapelow dives deep into the complex cultural attitudes that discourage individuals in these professions from seeking help. In environments where resilience, toughness, and self-reliance are deeply ingrained and expected, admitting to psychological pain can feel like a professional and personal failure.

In a statement regarding the project, director Kapelow highlighted the paradox of modern mental health awareness. Although there is a growing optimism around destigmatizing public conversations regarding psychological well-being, overall mental health outcomes in America continue to deteriorate. Kapelow expressed hope that the documentary will add a meaningful perspective by highlighting an intimate family story that tackles these widespread issues through an unconventional lens.

For Kapelow, the subject matter is profoundly personal. As a suicide loss survivor hailing from Wyoming, much of his creative and advocacy work has focused on addressing mental health challenges unique to the American West. His background also includes practical experience working as a peer support facilitator with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, lending authenticity and deep empathy to the film.

The involvement of high-profile industry figures like Riley Keough and Clay Tweel is expected to bring significant visibility to "Under Fire." Keough, acclaimed for her work in film and television, brings star power and industry backing, while Tweel adds valuable documentary expertise. As the film prepares for its festival run, it aims to foster greater empathy for individuals facing severe trauma and open doors for alternative therapeutic solutions.

Ultimately, "Under Fire" seeks to transcend a standard medical narrative by focusing on the human element of healing. By spotlighting Rob’s courage to try psychedelic therapy, the filmmakers hope to challenge traditional stigmas and advocate for those who quietly carry the invisible burdens of public service.