'Who cares?' That's now a fairly typical response when anyone in the public eye comes out as gay, and sport is no different - but there are still very few, men and women, who do come out. In the world of male professional football (soccer), it's really rare - despite the thousands of pro players across the globe. So should all of us, gay or straight, care more? Shouldn't we wonder what it would be like, in the hypermasculine environment of football, to feel different but be afraid or discouraged to show it? The short film WONDERKID aims for that empathy, and achieves it - there's such spirit and passion in the young central character Bradley (Chris Mason) that the viewer is drawn into his headspace and mindset, even though his reactions are often hot-headed or impulsive. The scenarios, setting, relationships (particularly with his agent) and story arc all combine to place Bradley in a believable sporting world that still carries its own taboos and traditions, out of step with much of modern society. The film's powerful message - 'Be Yourself' - will resonate with anyone, particularly those who have ever felt on the fringes of a group or activity. The short feels like the start of something, a call to arms for football and a calling card for a first-time film-maker. You can watch WONDERKID for free on its official website, and there are no geo restrictions - it deserves to be 'the shot heard round the world' for inclusion in soccer.
