A graphic suicide scene in a new Australian movie is 'dangerous' because it could prompt vulnerable people to take their lives, mental health experts have warned.

The seven-minute scene in 2:37 clearly shows a teenager in the act of self harm - leading to death.

The film, written and directed by 21-year-old Murali Thalluri, is rated R 18-plus.  

Sane Australia executive director Barbara Hocking said 'The dangerous side of this is there may be some people who are vulnerable who are prompted to take action as a consequence. Filmmakers should not be on the moral high ground that they're portraying art. It's a matter of balancing this so-called entertainment against the risk of harm.'

SANE Australia wrote to Mr Thalluri, encouraging him to consider research in this area, and the impact, when portraying suicide in future productions.