LGBT Identity
Two programs of short films address identity issues which are relatable to any student’s experience. These shorts are filled with stories of self-discovery, inclusion, and respect. Growing up can be a hard job, especially when a student feels as isolated as some of the characters in these short films. Get the conversation started!
All films are official selections from the Chicago International Children’s Film Festival, and all programs include an introduction and post-screening discussion led by one of our trained media educators. Curriculum aligned with the Common Core is also provided to teachers prior to the day of screening.
Flexible scheduling throughout the day – come to us or let us come to you! For details about screenings at Facets Multi-Media, click here. For details about screenings at your location, click here. To book your group please contact fldtrips@facets.org or (773) 281-9075 ext. 3009.
Straight With You
Animated/Live-action Shorts Program
Grades 6-8 (Ages 11-14) – M P
All world language films will be screened with English subtitles.
90-minute program includes media education.
Themes: Embracing differences, identity exploration. Identifying and self-managing behavior. Recognizing personal qualities and external supports. Understanding feelings and perspectives of others, based on orientation and gender. Recognizing individual similarities and differences, negative deptictions of differences among people (e.g. gender or sexual orientation stereotyping). How lack of understanding of differences can contribute to intolerance. Overcoming a lack of understanding those who are different. How getting to know and work with others can change perceptions of these groups.
“Straight With You” – Program Description (PDF)
Growing up can be a hard job, especially when you feel as isolated as some of the protagonists in this program. In one film, 11 year-old Melvin has difficulty coming out to his best friend when she’s indicated a romantic interest. It’s a tough spot to be in, especially since he had to change schools after being bullied for being gay. In another film, a neighbor girls pull a prank by pretending one is a boy and starting a penpal relationship. As correspondence grows, Lilja grows fond of Melitta – can she reveal her true identity face to face – or is the confrontation too much to bear? These shorts follow the dilemmas of identity, the social and familial consequences of coming out, and the importance of finding sources of strength and friendship along the way.
This PSA is Gay! (USA)
Black Sheep (Croatia)
Bob (Germany)
Bendik and the Monster (Norway)
No Rain, No Rainbow (Japan)
Next Door Letters (Sweden)
Wini + George (USA)
Straight with You (Netherlands)
True Colors
Animated/Live-action Shorts Program
Grades 9+ (Ages 14+) – M P
All world language films are screened with English subtitles.
90-minute program includes media education.
Themes: Embracing differences, identity exploration. Identifying and self-managing behavior. Recognizing personal qualities and external supports. Understanding feelings and perspectives of others, based on orientation and gender. Recognizing individual similarities and differences, negative deptictions of differences among people (e.g. gender or sexual orientation stereotyping). How lack of understanding of differences can contribute to intolerance. Overcoming a lack of understanding those who are different. How getting to know and work with others can change perceptions of these groups.
“True Colors” – Program Description (PDF)
Come along for the celebration! First, a boisterous musical, where a young man’s quest for love and acceptance shows how freedom of expression is worth singing about! In another film, a neighbor joins in a mean girl bullying prank posing, by as a fake penpal with a made-up identity. As correspondence grows, Lilja grows fond of Melitta – can she reveal her true identity? Then, Joppe seems to have it all—confidence, popularity, a loving family. But there are two things Joppe desperately wants: to go out with her crush, Brian, and to be finally biologically female. An exploration of identity that is relatable to all, these shorts are filled with tales of self-discovery and belonging.
This PSA is Gay! (USA)
A Good Man (USA)
Bald Guy (Norway)
Next Door Letters (Sweden)
I Am A Girl! (Netherlands)
Father Wanted …. With A Piggy Nose (Netherlands)
