From Under the Bridge: When Bullies Become Trolls

The film is based on real life events and shows the dangers of cyberbullying. The internet has made bullying even easier and the bullies do not see the damage they are causing to the person at the other end. In the film, the main character Clare is bullied in person and online to the point where she takes her own life. It is never easy to tell the story of a such a traumatizing event, but director Paul James does a masterful job with handling the sensitive topic.

'Under the Bridge' is a beautifully told, heart wrenching true story about the trials and tribulations of being a teenage girl. Exploring the horrors of high school hierarchy, Clare finds herself a victim of her peers; but is soon to find refuge in an online chat forum. This film is beautifully acted, with a special mention to Piper Reese who perfectly captures the anguish and desolation of being a victim of bullying. Paul James Houghton is a masterful director and writer, who accurately and thoughtfully approaches a delicate subject. This film truly is a must watch with its expert storytelling and crucial message.

A chilling true story masterfully directed by Paul James. The performance of the lead actress is incredibly memorable and her facial expressions will remain imprinted in my mind for a while! It has been a while since a movie, especially a short film, left me this touched, leaving the theatre with lingering thoughts of what I've just experienced. Not to mention the cinematographer has done an incredible job. Both with lighting as well as selection of angles and detailed shots bringing us closer to the emotional state of the characters. The story itself is incredibly touching and I believe it should turn into a feature.

Wow! This really is an exceptionally well-made film based on a unbelievable true story. It delivers multiple important social messages while being very entertaining from beginning to end. They've done something very difficult in covering many layers and sub-plots in such a short time, but they pulled it off with flying colors. The tempo is perfect and smooth and I was engaged from the very first second of the opening scene. I've seen the film 3 times and 2 key scenes made me cry every time. The film resonated with me personally and struck a few emotional cords. The writing and directing is clearly excellent. And when you add a very talented cast (every character is played spectacularly - well done to the casting director) and outstanding editing, it becomes the film it is - gripping and great. I also really liked the score, original songs and sound design on this film. I just found out the songs were nominated for Grammys (not surprised). Thank you to the writers, director, producers, the great cast and anyone connected to this exceptional film for making it and for dedicating it to the memory of Megan (the victim of bullying the film is based on). Now go make the feature version! You have left me wanting more of the story. 5 stars, 10 out of 10, A+.

A friend highly recommended I see this short film at the end of 2021 and I have to say I was completely blown away. It is very strong as a fictional drama/suspense/thriller with some twists and parallel stories but the fact it's all based on a terrible true incident gives it that something extra you look for in a film. The acting is really good and the lead actress gave me chills and a solid lump in my throat. I found the bullying scene tough to watch because it was so real and so well acted by all 3 of the teen actors. The dialogue is perfect and raw and I found the writing to be brilliant. I watched it a couple of times just to dissect the script because the whole film just felt so smooth. All the characters contributed something to the story and to the messages in the story. But the messages don't smother the film. Instead they compliment the film superbly. After I watched the film, I talked about it with my friend who recommended it and we tried to pinpoint the reason it's so good. But there are lots of reasons. It is well-balanced, well-directed, well-acted, and most importantly, well-written. And with a really great story. The attention to detail is also something to commend. We also agreed the characters are very relatable, as are many of the situations. Let the messages seep in but while you watch this film for the entertaining experience and powerful piece it is. We absolutely loved it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!