After a recent screening at the Golden Door Film Festival, a short docu-fiction film, “Breaking The Silence,” will be screened admission free at Port O Lounge, 286 First St. in Jersey City on Thursday, Oct. 8, at 7 p.m., followed by a question and answer session with the cast.
The evening will include singer Sicily Knight with a live performance of “Crying in the Rain” and special guests Joseph and Jane Clementi, anti-bullying activists representing the Tyler Clementi Foundation. They appear in the film along with NJ State Trooper and president of NJASRO Gregory M. Williams.
Bullying is a serious problem faced by youth today. Whether the bullying takes place in the school, neighborhood or on the internet, it can lead to serious problems for both the victim and the perpetrator.
Frank Gigante’s short film was made to help raise funds for his future anti-bullying fictional feature called “Broken Silence.” In the meantime, the documentary highlights the alarming rate of bullying and how society can combat it.
Protecting the most vulnerable
Suicide due to bullying is a fast-growing issue. Tragic emotional consequences can result for victims of bullies. In recent studies, nearly 50 percent of those surveyed revealed they had thought about committing suicide as a result of bullying.
Bullying victims are also much more prone to suffer depression. In the film, experts and victims of bullying share their thoughts on how to stop this growing epidemic killing kids.
“Our children deserve us as parents and guardians to do all we can and learn as much as possible about bullies and bullying,” said Gigante. “Our support, education and love will ensure they get through any issues of bullying confidently and more importantly, safely.”
The film was written by Frank Gigante and Kevin Shipp. Actress Kat Gueli plays the lead in the fictional part of the film. The film was directed by Frank Gigante who also produced, along with executive producer Mike Sciarra.
Those interested can support the campaign by visiting www.brokensilencefilm.com and going to the contribute tab. You can also check out the official trailer for the documentary on