Prayers for Bobby
The film Prayers for Bobby, directed by Russell Mulcahy:
Prayers for Bobby is a 2009 television film based on the true story of Mary Griffith, a devout Christian woman whose son Bobby committed suicide after struggling with his homosexuality. The film explores the complex relationship between Bobby and his mother, as well as the impact of religious intolerance on LGBTQ+ youth.
One of the most powerful aspects of the film is its depiction of the emotional pain that Bobby experiences as a result of his mother's rejection. Mary's belief that homosexuality is a sin leads her to try to "cure" Bobby, and she forces him to attend therapy and pray for deliverance. Bobby's attempts to conform to his mother's expectations only make him feel more isolated and alone, and he eventually comes to believe that he is unlovable and worthless.
The film's portrayal of Bobby's suicide is both heartbreaking and disturbing. Bobby's death is a direct result of the religious intolerance and homophobia that he experiences, and it serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of intolerance. The film's ending is hopeful, however, as it shows Mary coming to terms with her son's death and becoming an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights.
In my opinion, Prayers for Bobby is an important and powerful film that raises important issues about religious intolerance and homophobia. The film's depiction of Bobby's pain is both heartbreaking and thought-provoking, and it serves as a reminder of the importance of acceptance and tolerance.
MLA Style
Aarons, Leroy F. Prayers for Bobby: A Mother's Coming to Terms with the Suicide of Her Gay Son. HarperCollins, 1995.
Mulcahy, Russell, director. Prayers for Bobby. Lifetime Television, 2009.