Bully (2012) MPAA Rating: PG-13 Entertainment: +4 Content: +1

Documentary released by the Weinstein Company. Opened in limited release on 4/30/12.

FILM SYNOPSIS: Over 18 million young people in the United States will be bullied this year. Here, we follow a disquieting year in the life of several students joining this staggering statistic. As teachers and parents grapple with America's bullying crisis, the students do their best just to survive each school day.

PREVIEW REVIEW: The most important film of the year, this riveting exposé brings awareness to parents and society in general about not just bullying in schools, but the lack of acknowledgement by those who supposedly care for your kids when in their charge.

One question remains unanswered. While we see parents devastated and school friends in a daze after they learn of suicides by those unable to come to terms with aggressive, thoughtless and cruel behavior, what becomes of the bullies? Do they have any regret? Are their lives turned upside down by their insensitivity that led to deaths? That’s the one area this moving and informative documentary fails to address.

It is a difficult film to view, due to what seems like indifference by some authorities and a desensitized nature in some kids and teens, but the film reminds us that evil keeps finding ways to manifest itself. Fortunately, the ending is hopeful, as we see people coming together to end injustice and brutality of mind and spirit. An important film.

Heartbreaking lines from the film, yet most revealing.

“He cried and then he got to a point where he didn’t cry anymore.”
“I feel like I belong somewhere else.”

Preview Reviewer: Phil Boatwright
Distributor: The Weinstein Company