The documentary 'Bully' is to be released this weekend in the states with a PG 13 rating after an initial controversial R rating has been removed. For those of you who haven't heard about this movie, I have shared the official description and the release trailer below. These are not actors. The scenes are disturbingly real and the documentary maker stood and watched this terrible story unfold before his eyes, even when the camera was in full -view.
Directed by Sundance and Emmy-award winning filmmaker, Lee Hirsch, The Bully Project is a beautifully cinematic, character-driven documentary. At its heart are those with huge stakes in this issue whose stories each represent a different facet of Americas bullying crisis. The Bully Project follows five kids and families over the course of a school year. Stories include two families who have lost children to suicide and a mother awaiting the fate of her 14-year-old daughter who has been incarcerated after bringing a gun on her school bus. With an intimate glimpse into homes, classrooms, cafeterias and principals offices, the film offers insight into the often cruel world of the lives of bullied children. As teachers, administrators, kids and parents struggle to find answers, The Bully Project examines the dire consequences of bullying through the testimony of strong and courageous youth. Through the power of their stories, the film aims to be a catalyst for change in the way we deal with bullying as parents, teachers, children and society as a whole.
A storm of controversy has followed this movie that has been hard to miss here. It's been talked about a lot. It contains violent scenes and strong language. Initially it received an R rating which, due to public outcry has been changed to PG 13.
I for one will be taking both my boys aged 8 and 12 to see it. I feel it is vital that they learn that there are serious consequences for ill-thought actions in the playground or classroom.
There is an ongoing debate about whether it should be shown in schools .
What do you think ? Would you take your kids to see it ? Would you be comfortable with them seeing it at school ?
.jpg)
