Educational Media Reviews Online

Scenarios USA is a non-profit organization whose goal is to “foster youth leadership, advocacy and self-expression in under-served teens” by encouraging young people, aged 12-22 to write scripts which explore issues such as communication, HIV/AIDS, pregnancy and relationships for the annual “What’s the Real Deal?” contest. Winning writers are paired with professional filmmakers to create the final videos. The films in this series demonstrate that teen-written scripts, if well produced and styled for young tastes, can communicate important messages and teachable moments. All the films include a “behind the scenes film” which is essential viewing for learning about the film’s creative process. The Scenario films are available online, and also for individual purchase on DVD. Besides being useful for sex education classes this series provides excellent examples of short documentary subjects for a filmmaking class. Written by 17 year-old Keana Ray of Maywood, IL, Reflections is a realistic portrayal of high school students’ risky sexual behavior and some of the naïve attitudes they hold. This film provides an important window into the pressures young women face from their boyfriends. Even after they are lectured at their school by an HIV positive woman, the three girlfriends featured in this film ignore the warnings and get tested—one sadly tested positive.

Reflections’ cinematography, musical soundtrack, and talented cast are excellent. Told in a hip, contemporary manner this film can serve as an important catalyst for discussion about safe sex and the responsibility both women and men have in protecting themselves and each other. This film is highly recommended for class discussion, and should be on safe sex bibliographies provided by teachers, librarians and organizations.

The Choices We Make presents a realistic and moving story about a difficult decision a teenaged woman must make upon becoming pregnant. Though she is in a loving relationship with Tamal, Maria chooses abortion, taking counsel from her supportive mother, in opposition to Tamal and a good friend. This film presents the important bonds of young romance and friendship, while emphasizing the responsibility one has towards one’s own future.

The film’s script was written by 17 year-old Tiara Bennett of East Flatbush, Brooklyn. The directors, cast and crew transformed the well-worn storyline into a skillful production with excellent dialogue, cinematography and soundtrack. The actors are superb. It is hoped that The Choices We Make, which shows teenage intimacy with great honesty, can help teens to assess their own behavior and consider the choices they might make in their own sex lives. It is highly recommended for class discussion, and should be on safe sex bibliographies provided by teachers, librarians and organizations.

Who I Am is a touching coming out story that, in its brevity, expresses much wisdom. Scripted by 17 year-old Whitney Peters of Miami, FL, this film explores the evolution of a high school romance between a white lesbian and an African-American woman who are paired up by their teacher to complete an assignment, “How do different identities learn to like and respect each other?” Though there is initial tension between these women, free-wheeling discussions about their different backgrounds and challenges lead to new intimacy and a pivotal kiss in the girl’s bathroom room. Soon Hailey and Veronica must face the prejudice and disdain of their classmates. Hailey effectively responds to her boyfriend and friends’ anger and resentment. Back in the classroom, she openly expresses her feelings for Veronica in a moment of triumph.

Who I Am’s acting, filming, dialogue and music are equally excellent. This film can be a great catalyst for classroom discussions about homophobia and racism, and ways to break barriers to promote understanding. It is highly recommended.

Scripted by 17 year-old Caroline Boon of Brownsville, TX, this short film, Me, Myself and I presents a lesson about acting responsibly and fine tuning one's inner voice. High school student Allie acts on her ambition to have a boyfriend by testing the waters with sex, and then learning to accept her best instincts. Two imaginary alter ego gal pals accompany Allie, offering her conflicting advice about how to behave. A month into a fun romance, Nick rejects Allie after she half-heartedly has oral sex with him in a car. On the rebound, she sleeps with Donnie and a slew of other boys. Feeling empty and coming to her senses, Allie self-administers a pregnancy test and gets tested for STDs. The words “you are fine” from the clinician buoys Allie’s confidence when she realizes how lucky she is. At the end, looking back at this period of her life, realizes that she doesn’t need a boyfriend because she has herself.

Me, Myself and I teaches adolescent girls to be true to themselves while emphasizing a boy’s nature to be bullying. It is professionally filmed and edited with excellent contemporary music. This film is highly recommended for class discussion or individual use, and should be on safe sex bibliographies provided by teachers, librarians and organizations.