Perhaps one of the most powerful films of the early 2000s, Prayers For Bobby details a story that is close to home for many in the LGBTQ+ community. Throughout the film, the true feelings of the main character, Bobby, can be felt deeply in anyone who has grown up in an extremist religion environment, and those who haven't. regardless of your orientation, background etc. this film is a must see. it provokes deep thought and reflection about one's own practices in life and encourages people to think for themselves, to challenge and stand up when something isn't right, and addresses the deep seated emotion and generations of bigotry that have fueled this all too common reality in the lives of youth throughout the world who identify as LGBTQ+ and those who don't even yet have a term for how they feel and who they are. I recommend this film for history classes as well as it brings to light much of what the LGBT Q+ community has fought through and a major reason as to why so many in our community have died unjustly at the hands of those whose intentions may be either twisted, or good hearted, but yet influenced and hijacked by indoctrination in many walks of life that might not be considered.
this film provides a great understanding of a serious issue that contributes to teen suicides and adult suicides that ocurr countless times a year. it also shows the beauty of change and the power that we have to chose our own views for the good regardless of where, who, what, or if we even recognize a deity.
School counselors, this is a must watch for you and for all in the mental health community.
for further reading, check out the oubliwhed version of Bobby's diary from which this film is based. it is under the same title, prayers for Bobby.
Review by BasBlockedParent2020-10-16T20:54:34Z
An intense sad and emotional rollercoaster to watch, no matter who you are. I suggest this movie to everyone, whether being LGBTQ or an ally, or an adversary of them. Yes, even if you think yourself homosexuality is wrong - the movie is pretty much taking that into account. If you intend to cite the bible against it - the movie comes prepared and will confront you the same. For that alone it might be interesting to consider.
I just felt sorry for Bobby, as written below. His mother - while you could say she was blind, it is without question she cared about him much as well, and was suffering, too. She, as well as him, have been full of conflicts.
I cannot not give this a 10 out of 10. Not because of I think absolutely everyone will agree with me. Not because of it is without any flaws whatsoever or just fun to watch. But for emotions and feelings, like helplessness, sadness and causing the unwillingness to accept the state of society after watching this. I never ever remotely cried half as much about or in a movie ever before. And I think, that alone is a huge accomplishment and worth very much.
I - and maybe you as well - will just get so many questions about this: Why isn't he allowed to be happy? And was he close to before? Why did all of this had happen to him? Why do we, as society, rob him of his fortune?
There are so many more Bobbys out there. They should feel accepted, not outcast by us. That won't help anyone and will only cause suffering.
Bobby - What has happened to you, is not your fault. It is ours.
Whoever you are - you deserve love and acceptance by others.
Rating: 10/10