🪶 Story & Synopsis
“Bully” is a gripping and intense drama film directed by Larry Clark, based on the book “Bully” by Jim Schutze. The screenplay was written by Zachary Long and Roger Pullis. The movie showcases a dark and twisted tale of a group of teenagers who conspire to murder their abusive friend in a small Florida town.
The story revolves around Marty, who is constantly subjected to the abusive behavior of his so-called best friend, Bobby. Marty’s girlfriend, also a victim of Bobby’s cruelty, joins forces with Marty to devise a plan to eliminate Bobby once and for all. As they gather a mix of willing and unwilling participants, they delve into the dangerous territory of planning a murder and contemplate the potential consequences of their actions.
Set against the backdrop of suburban South Florida, the film delves into the toxic relationship between Bobby and Marty. Bobby takes pleasure in tormenting and mistreating Marty, pushing him to his breaking point. However, when Marty begins a romantic relationship with Lisa, things take a complicated turn. Marty yearns to break free from Bobby’s influence, but Bobby’s hold on him is strong.
Amidst the turmoil, a brutal incident sparks an idea among the group – what if they could rid themselves of Bobby once and for all? The narrative unfolds as the teenagers grapple with the moral implications of their plan and the escalating tension within the group.
“Bully” is a raw and unflinching portrayal of teenage angst, manipulation, and violence. The film delves into the darker aspects of adolescent friendships and the lengths to which individuals may go when pushed to their limits. With a stellar cast including Brad Renfro, Bijou Phillips, Rachel Miner, Michael Pitt, Kelli Garner, Daniel Franzese, Nick Stahl, and Leo Fitzpatrick, the movie brings to life a chilling and thought-provoking story of betrayal and revenge.
As the plot unfolds, viewers are taken on a suspenseful journey filled with twists and turns, culminating in a shocking and unforgettable conclusion. “Bully” challenges the audience to confront the complexities of loyalty, morality, and the consequences of unchecked aggression.
🧑 Cast & Crew
Casting Crew for the movie “Bully”:
| Actor | Role | Crew |
|---|---|---|
| Tucker Albrizzi | Jimmy Mulligan | |
| Jack DiFalco | Miles | |
| Joe Campanelli | Writer/Executive Producer | |
| Danny Trejo | Manny | |
| Vincent Pastore | Frankie | |
| Scott B. Hansen | Producer | |
| Ron Canada | “Action” Jackson | |
| Santino Campanelli | Director/Producer/Music |
💬 Reviews and feedback
Hey there movie buffs! Ready to hop on the roller coaster ride of emotions with a movie that breaks the Hollywood mold? Well, buckle up because we’re diving into the intense world of Bully!
Imagine a movie that’s not for the faint-hearted, a movie that grips you by the collar and immerses you in a tale of dark realities. That’s Bully (2001) for you. Based on the chilling true story of the 1993 murder of Bobby Kent, this film doesn’t hold back in showcasing the brutal consequences of bullying.
The stellar cast, led by the exceptional Nick Stahl, brings authenticity to their roles, making you feel every ounce of emotion portrayed on screen. The rawness and intensity of their performances stay with you long after the credits roll.
Now, let’s delve into what makes Bully a standout piece of cinema:
- Plot and Themes: The narrative delves deep into the complexities of teenage relationships, peer pressure, and the devastating effects of unchecked bullying. It’s a stark reminder of how actions have consequences, especially when fueled by rage and desperation.
- Acting and Characters: Nick Stahl shines as he embodies the tormented soul caught in a web of manipulation and violence. Each character is etched with layers that unravel throughout the film, leaving you both sympathetic and disturbed by their choices.
- Direction: Larry Clark’s direction is unapologetically bold, capturing moments that are discomforting yet undeniably real. The gritty realism he brings to every frame adds weight to an already heavy storyline.
- Cinematography: The cinematography in Bully is raw and unfiltered, mirroring the harshness of its subject matter. The camera doesn’t shy away from intimate moments or brutal truths, immersing you fully in the characters’ turbulent world.
- Production Design and Special Effects: The production design creates an environment that feels eerily authentic, pulling you into the gritty underbelly of teenage angst and violence. The special effects are minimal but impactful when they appear, adding to the overall sense of unease.
- Editing and Pace: The editing keeps the narrative taut, never allowing your attention to waver from the escalating tension. The pace is relentless, mirroring the characters’ descent into darkness as events spiral out of control.
- Dialogues: The dialogues in Bully cut deep, resonating with emotional turmoil and stark truths. Each word spoken feels like a dagger aimed at revealing hidden motives and suppressed emotions.
This movie isn’t just a casual watch; it’s an experience that lingers in your thoughts long after it ends. It forces you to confront uncomfortable truths about human nature and societal pressures.
Binge-Watching Tip: If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the intensity of Bully, take short breaks between scenes to process your emotions effectively.
If you’re a fan of movies that challenge conventions and leave you questioning societal norms, then Bully (2001) is definitely worth adding to your watchlist!
In conclusion, I rate Bully (2001): 8/10.
Cheers to embracing thought-provoking cinema!
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Great portrayal of real events | Gruesome and uncomfortable scenes |
| Excellent acting, especially by Nick Stahl | Not suitable for weak stomachs |
| Breaks the Hollywood mould | Feels more exploitative than realistic |
| Based on a true story | Lingering shots of naked teenage bodies |
Feedback
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Bully (2001 film) - Wikipedia
Bullyis a 2001 crime drama film directed by Larry Clark, and starring Brad Renfro, Bijou Phillips, Rachel Miner, Michael Pitt, Leo Fitzpatrick, Daniel Franzese, Kelli Garner, and Nick Stahl. Its plot follows a group of teenagers in South Florida who enact a murder plot against their mutual bully who has emotionally, physically, and sexually abused them for years.
Bully Directed by Larry Clark Screenplay by Zachary Long Roger Pullis
Based on Bully by Jim Schutze
Produced by Don Murphy Chris HanleyFernando Sulichin
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Bully (2001) - IMDb
- Awards
- 3 wins & 1 nomination
- Mr. Kent
- (as Edward Amatrudo)
- Mr. Willis
- (as Steven Raulerson)
- Mrs. Willis
- (as Judith Clayton)
- Director
- Writers
- All cast & crew
- Production, box office & more at IMDbPro
Did you know
- GoofsThere are no anachronisms in the film. Yes the events depicted occurred in the early 1990’s, but Larry Clark has stated that he set the film in 2000 so that he wouldn’t have to worry about anachronisms. Also yes, the Mustang is not a 5.0. She isn’t a car girl and doesn’t know better. In the film she is even told that she is wrong, so that is a deliberate goof.
- Quotes Donny: Shit, I never knew nobody who killed somebody. Alice ‘Ali’ Willis: Me neither. Heather: Just my grandpa. I never knew him. Yeah. My grandpa was a bad drunk. Really bad. He’d rape anyone dumb enough to walk by his room and one night… he got… um, really pissed at my grandma and he took a claw hammer to her face. And, uh, after that, he just… he locked himself up with her in his room for two whole days and he kept drinking and having sex with her after she was dead. My mom was in the house the whole time. Donny: Fuck. Heather: She was only 15. Alice ‘Ali’ Willis: Holy shit. Heather: You know, it really messed with her head. After that, she only hung out with guys who beat the hell out of her. And when I was little, she’d get drunk and she’d drag me and my brother out of bed at, like, four in the morning and she had all the news clippings about my grandpa and the trial transcriptions and she’d read them over and over again. And I knew every word before kindergarten. I think that’s how I learned to read.
- Crazy creditsThis Picture only covers events up to and including the conclusion of the trial of the defendants depicted in this Picture. Following the trial, some defendants appealed. Here are the results of the various appeals as of the time of the making of this Picture: Lisa Connelly’s sentence was reduced to 22 years. Alice Willis was sentenced to 17 years but shall be under community supervision for 40 years upon her release. Martin Puccio’s sentence was reduced to life in prison
- Alternate versionsThe version shown on Cinemax is the edited R-rated version of the film and while most of the sex remains, the more explicit shots are removed.
- SoundtracksWho DatPerformed by J.T. Money (as JT Money) featuring Solé (as Sole)Written by Christopher Stewart, Thabiso Nkhereanye (as Thabiso Nkhereanya), Solé (as Tonya Johnston),J.T. Money (as Jeffrey Tompkins), Diandre DavisJT Money appears courtesy of Freeworld Entertainment/Priority RecordsSole appears courtesy of Dreamworks RecordsPublished by Music of Windswept o/b/o Honey from Missouri and Hitco South, Famous Music o/b/o itselfTunes on the Verge of Insanity and Mo Better Grooves Music (ASCAP), WB Music Corp. o/b/i itself and Tony Mercedes Music (ASCAP), Money Man Music, LLC (BMI), Dre All Day Music (ASCAP)
This sex/drug filled movie is a spot-on represenation of these kid’s sad life. They had no future, no regrets, didn’t go to school and yes, they had sex with each other a lot. From what my mother says, if you were to make a movie about them accurately, it would have to be close to 75% sex. The bully was bi-sexual and would force his best friend to have sex with him after he had raped his girlfriend. These kids were also not poor white trash, as their parents were very wealthy, and they drove nice cars.
- Awards
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Official Trailer: Bully (2001) - YouTube
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The 60+ Best Movies About Bullying - Ranker
The 60+ Best Movies About Bullying
Cinema has long been a platform for delving into life’s most challenging issues. For many audience members, films can be an ideal way to explore, digest, and discuss these topics. This in-depth curation of movies about bullying is no exception. The list, passionately assembled by over 400 fervent film aficionados, contains more than 60 titles that echo with audiences globally. Each film selected ranges from beloved classics to critically praised narratives to quintessential coming-of-age tales, but they all share a central theme: bullying.
⚠️ Explanation (Spoiler)
In the movie “Bull,” the ending provides a deep and intriguing resolution to the story of Bull and his son. The film follows Bull, played by Neil Maskell, on a violent and grisly revenge mission to hunt down members of his former gang, led by his father-in-law, in order to find his estranged son. The plot thickens with a flashback to a tragic night where Bull is betrayed by his wife and father-in-law, leading to him being burned alive in front of his son. Despite the gang believing him to be dead, Bull survives and embarks on his vengeful spree.
The climax of the movie takes a metaphysical turn when Bull finds his son and takes him to a church, laying him at the altar until a vicar arrives the next morning. The vicar is startled by Bull’s appearance, as his eyes have turned entirely black, giving him an almost demonic look. This transformation hints at the possibility of Bull being a manifestation of the Devil seeking redemption for his son.
The film’s ending suggests that Bull may have made a deal with the Devil to save his son, adding a supernatural element to the gritty revenge thriller. The final scene shows Bull standing over a grave, symbolizing his journey from Hell back to the mortal world to avenge his death and secure his son’s salvation. The narrative implies that Bull is indeed dead in every scene of the film, except for the flashbacks, and he must return to Hell once his mission is complete.
This twist explains Bull’s seemingly supernatural abilities, his lack of physical scars from the fire, and his relentless pursuit of revenge without regard for the consequences. The movie’s ending leaves viewers with a haunting and thought-provoking conclusion, blurring the lines between reality and the supernatural in Bull’s quest for justice and redemption.
Overall, “Bull” offers a unique and gripping take on the revenge thriller genre, blending elements of gritty realism with a touch of the supernatural to deliver a compelling and memorable cinematic experience.
👪 Parents Guide & Age Rating
PG-13
Age Rating:
This movie is recommended for viewers aged 10 and above.
Parental Guide:
Sex & Nudity:
- There are no explicit sexual scenes or nudity in the movie.
Violence & Gore:
- The movie depicts bullying scenes, including physical and emotional violence towards children.
- Some scenes show kids crying and parents expressing frustration.
Profanity:
- There is constant cursing and rude hand gestures throughout the film.
- The language used may not be suitable for younger viewers.
Alcohol/Drugs/Smoking:
- There are no depictions of alcohol, drugs, or smoking in the movie.
Frightening/Intense Scenes:
- The movie addresses the serious issue of bullying, which may be intense and emotional for some viewers.
- Scenes of bullying and its impact on children and families are portrayed realistically.
Overall Parental Guidance:
Parents should be aware that “Bully Movie” contains intense scenes of bullying, constant cursing, and emotional situations that may not be suitable for younger audiences. It is recommended for viewers aged 10 and above, but parental guidance is advised due to the sensitive subject matter and language used throughout the film.
📺 Streaming and where to watch
| streaming service | extra information |
|---|---|
| Hoopla | Bully is currently available to stream on Hoopla. |
| Amazon Prime Video | You can buy or rent Bully for as low as $3.79 to rent or $5.99 to buy on Amazon Prime Video. |
❝ Quotes and Cult
Make the most of tonight, Twinkle Toes, because you won't like tomorrow!
- Kumar Patel: Excuse me officer. Let me take a couple of guesses.
Once you know who you are, you need not fear being misunderstood, or isolated, or bullied. You won't care whether others respect you, because you know who you are.
When people don't like themselves very much, they have to make up for it. The classic bully was actually a victim first.
🤖Bully Reddit Talks
Bully (2001) Reddit Summary
Disturbing and Realistic Depiction of Bullying
Redditors widely agree that Bully is a disturbing film that accurately portrays the horrors of bullying. Many compare it to the equally disturbing Kids (1995), also directed by Larry Clark.
Personal Experiences with Bullying
Several Redditors share their own experiences with bullying, both as victims and witnesses. They commend the film for its ability to evoke strong emotions and spark discussion about this prevalent issue.
Comparison to Other Bullying Films
Some Redditors argue that Bully is a more disturbing and effective portrayal of bullying than other films like Kids. They praise Clark’s unflinching approach and the film’s realistic depiction of teenage life.
Criticism of the Film’s Content
Despite its overall positive reception, some Redditors criticize Bully for its excessive violence and sexual content. They argue that while the film effectively portrays the harsh realities of bullying, it may be too graphic for some viewers.
Psychological Impact of Bullying
The film’s harrowing depiction of bullying prompts Redditors to discuss the long-lasting psychological effects it can have on victims. They emphasize the importance of addressing bullying early on to prevent severe consequences.
Larry Clark’s Controversial Style
Larry Clark’s unique filmmaking style is a subject of discussion among Redditors. Some appreciate his raw and realistic approach, while others find it unnecessarily provocative and exploitative.
Relevance to Current Social Issues
Redditors note the film’s continued relevance in today’s society, where bullying remains a prevalent problem. They emphasize the need for ongoing awareness and efforts to combat this issue.
Chilling Ending
Many Redditors mention the film’s chilling ending as one of its most memorable aspects. They praise Clark’s ability to create a sense of unease and uncertainty that lingers long after the credits roll.
Overall, Redditors highly recommend Bully as a thought-provoking and emotionally challenging film that sheds light on the devastating effects of bullying. However, they caution viewers about the film’s graphic content and controversial style.
Top discussions
- https://www.reddit.com/r/iwatchedanoldmovie/comments/10xwevp/i_watched_bully_2001/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/movies/comments/sxd2b3/everyone_always_talks_about_kids_being_so/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/TrueFilm/comments/10c37eu/people_who_have_seen_bully_2001_by_larry_clarke/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/MovieSuggestions/comments/18l7hxu/what_movies_can_you_recommend_after_watch_bully/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/TrueFilm/comments/2fv5aj/thoughts_on_larry_clark_kids_bully_etc_just/
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bully a good movie?
Overall, Bully is a great, if uncomfortable roller coaster of a movie and is recommended for those who enjoy films that challenge traditional Hollywood conventions.
Is Bully the movie based on a true story?
Yes, the film is based on the July 14, 1993 murder of Bobby Kent at a remote area in Weston, Florida, south of Alligator Alley.
What is the message of the movie Bully?
Ultimately, Bully encourages kids to stand up to bullies, not stand by, and reinforces the fact that everyone can make a difference when it comes to addressing bullying.
What is the documentary Bully about?
Bully is based on the true story of a group of kids that killed their mean friend in order to end their problems, showcasing the real-life consequences of bullying.
How accurate is the Bully movie?
The movie is based closely on a true story of a group of teenagers in South Florida who enacted a murder plot against their mutual bully who had subjected them to emotional, physical, and sexual abuse.
🔀 Recommended Movie and TV Show
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- Fish Tank : Everything changes for 15-year-old Mia when her mum brings home a new boyfriend.
- Bad Boys (1983) : Chicago crime kid Mick O’Brien is sent to reform school after accidentally killing a rival’s kid brother.
- 400 Blows : A young boy, left without attention, delves into a life of petty crime.
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