Watch Bully 50 Minute Documentary

Bully is a documentary film directed by Lee Hirsch, which was released in 2011. The movie is a sobering depiction of the bullying epidemic that has plagued schools across America for many years. In this 50-minute documentary, Hirsch takes a closer look at the lives of five bullied students and their families who are struggling to cope with the devastating effects of bullying.

The film begins with Alex, a 12-year-old boy, who has been bullied since he was in kindergarten. Alex is a sweet and thoughtful child who loves nature and animals. However, his love for nature and animals has made him an easy target for bullies in his school. Alex is subjected to constant taunting and name-calling, and he is often physically assaulted by his bullies. The bullying has taken a toll on Alex's mental and emotional well-being, and he often expresses his wish to end his life.

The movie also focuses on Kelby, a 16-year-old girl, who came out as a lesbian in a small town in Oklahoma. Kelby's decision to come out has made her an outcast in her community, and she is subjected to harassment and discrimination on a daily basis. Kelby's parents are also targeted by the community, as they are labeled as "bad parents" for allowing their daughter to be gay.

Another student highlighted in the film is Ja'Meya, a 14-year-old girl, who brought a gun to school to defend herself against bullies. Ja'Meya's desperate move landed her in juvenile detention, and her story brings light to the severity of the bullying problem in America.

The film also features the stories of Tyler, a 17-year-old boy who committed suicide because of bullying, and Ty, a 11-year-old boy who is bullied because he loves to dance, showing the different forms and consequences of bullying.

Throughout the documentary, Hirsch captures raw and emotional interviews with the bullied students, their families, and school administrators who are trying to address the bullying epidemic. Hirsch also interviews advocates and experts in the field who provide insight on the psychological and sociological effects of bullying.

Bully is a powerful film that sheds light on the devastating effects of bullying and the urgent need for prevention and intervention in schools across America. The documentary challenges the notion that bullying is a "rite of passage" and highlights the consequences of turning a blind eye to bullying.

The film has been praised for its authenticity and honesty in portraying the experiences of the bullied students and their families. It has also been criticized for its limited scope, as it primarily focuses on the stories of white, middle-class students, neglecting other marginalized groups such as students of color or students from low-income families.

Despite its limitations, Bully is a must-see documentary that brings attention to the urgent need for change in addressing the bullying epidemic in America. The film provides a platform for dialogue and action, encouraging viewers to take a stand against bullying and make a positive difference in their communities.