I do believe that this film was made well, as in the style and the tempo. But I have SERIOUS issues with this. First, the narrating is too bland and monotone.
But the real problem is that this is a film that the.filmmaker is using to absolve his guilt, and then brings in others to help him with that ambition. But, like he even admitted, did anyone even consider Dick's feelings? It's just tacky.
Pretty sure we've all been bullied a time or two in life, and I'm sure that none of us walked away glad about it. I know I have, and I haven't forgotten any of it. And I've been on the bullying side of things as well, and that too is in my memory of shame.
This a-hole is metaphorically pumping out his chest at the idea that Dick may forgive him and the rest of the gang. This is such a pompous act. The trauma that Dick felt in the moment didn't just go away. They ostracized this boy for what? And was it proven that he was actually the Richard who was talking? What if the other Richard/Richie was lying? And is it that serious to sit after school for a few minutes or so? Yeah, these are kids and a minute feels like an hour, but who raised these demons? And where is the teacher's responsibility in this? SHE called the boy out by NAME, and she gets to walk away and not even remember the incident? Do a documentary on her selfish butt. She should have been reprimanded, the gang of thugs should have been reprimanded, and Dick should have been able to exact his revenge.
I had to watch the entire film because I wanted there to be some resolution for Dick. But Jay couldn't even get that part right. Screw that, just because Dick was successful doesn't mean he wasn't traumatized. And what would have happened if Jay had found Dick to be desolate and unsuccessful as an adult? Would he still have interviewed the classmates? Would he have been ashamed or proud? Would any of them have attempted redemption? Start a GoFundMe? What if Dick had taken his own life, which happens far too often in these situations?
This is pretty narcissistic, selfish, inconsiderate, and everything else you can think of. Watch it if you wish, but this dude does not deserve accolades for this horrible film. I'll go cry now.
Edit: I came back to add a few more bits.
It was appalling to hear Jay sound more disappointed that a few classmates died before he could film them, than he was about the actual bullying. (What???) It wasn't cute when they pointed out the spot where it all took place. I get it, reminiscing and trying to make sense of it, possibly because they couldn't believe they were capable of anything horrible. But at 60+ years of age, they should all know better than to treat it as if they simply brushed by Dick instead of punching and kicking him.
Also: To the reviewer who wrote: "I see a lot of dishonest one star reviews obviously fueled by anger and resentment. Most likely victims of bullying themselves. With respect, you guys missed the point of the documentary." Come on dude, you are simply being a bully by writing that. OF COURSE people have been victims of bullying, why is that so hard to comprehend or believe? But to call them/us "dishonest" is a form of bullying. Thanks for being an insensitive moron.
