The Fat Boy Chronicles

Based on a true story but choppy in its presentation. Acting is pedestrian.

And I don't say this often.

Sometimes I give a 9 or even a 10 because I liked the movie.

This wasn't the case this time.

I find it hard to understand the negative reviews, because I think in this 75 minutes movie, there is a lot of reality.

OK, it wasn't a big dollar movie, but in it's 75 minutes real situations were told, real emotions were expressed.

And that is what I like in a movie.

This movie, although it didn't concern me personally, was great.

A lesson.

I bought this film because it's about bullying for an overweight boy. He weighed 188 pounds and has started high school. He hates school but hates himself more. The actor who plays him does a fabulous job in the role. You feel for his character and sympathize with him. His teacher insists that everybody including himself write in his journal. He begins to explore life and friendship with Paul and a girl named Sable. He tutors a jock named Robb. Unlike Paul, he comes from a religious functional family with both parents at home. His best friend Paul's parents are divorced and his father is an alcoholic. Sable appears to have her own problems. The movie is about self-loathing especially in world's standards of beauty and physical presentation.

This film was a great example of what kids really go through in school. When you watch this film you will think that this must be way worse then it really is. Then remind ourself this is based on true events. Kids can be cruel. It is the only way they can vent their own pain sometimes. I hope that everyone gets a chance to see this film with their kids and be able to talk to them about what is going on in their lives. Maybe use this film as a middle ground to understand your teenagers a little better. For the budget and the heart behind this film, I recommend "The Fat Boy Chronicles" to anyone that wants a good family film. This film was written by two ex-teachers that have finally gotten a chance to speak out for the children they care so much for.

This is a must-see. As a retired high school teacher I am very aware of how cruel students can be to one another. Mr. Winn has done an amazing job directing and putting this film together. An important statement! Bravo! What is the thing that sets you apart from the "norm" and gets you teased/bullied? Are you overweight, acne covered, shy, a band nerd, a geek? Is your religion different from most of the other students? In the US right now (late 2011) much bullying is being made based on a persons income, social status, political leanings..... A sad state of affairs to be sure. I will add, that under the current economic conditions and political climate, most of the bullying in public schools is the administration bullying the teachers. Sad but true. Tom