Battle Scars is a short film co-written and directed by John O'Rourke, shot across various locations in Dublin during March and April 2015.

It won Best Undergraduate Drama at the 2016 Royal Television Society Awards.

Battle Scars is a powerful short film that centres on Aoife Hayes, a schoolgirl navigating life in the aftermath of a suicide attempt.

Through a sensitive exploration of her emotional recovery and her evolving relationships with family and peers, the film offers an intimate portrayal of resilience, vulnerability and hope.

Since its release, Battle Scars has resonated deeply with audiences, amassing over 500,000 views on YouTube and earning recognition for its honest, understated storytelling and connection to universal themes.

In February 2025, Battle Scars was commissioned by the Be Kind Movement for their Our Kindness in School Programme.