The Truth Will Change Everything.|Jan. 20, 2004|United States|89 Min.|PG-13
Genre: Drama
Description: The 2004 film “Speak” tells the story of fourteen-year-old Melinda Sordino as she navigates her challenging first year of high school. On her first day, she feels isolated and awkward, with no friends to turn to. Mocked by other students who label her a “squealer,” Melinda’s struggles stem from a traumatic event during the previous summer. Flashbacks reveal that she had called the police from a house party after being raped by a senior student, Andy Evans. Overwhelmed by her trauma, she was unable to explain what happened when the police arrived.
Her parents, concerned about her declining grades, encourage her to seek help from a teacher named Mr. Neck. Despite her efforts, Melinda’s reluctance to participate in class leads to tension, and she is sent to the principal’s office. She briefly befriends a new student, Heather Billings, but Heather abandons her to pursue social popularity. The only positive interactions Melinda experiences are with her lab partner, Dave Petrakis, and her art teacher, Mr. Freeman, who both offer her some support.
As Melinda slowly begins to regain her confidence, she faces another challenge when her former best friend, Rachel Bruin, starts dating Andy. Fearing for Rachel’s safety, Melinda finds the courage to reveal the truth about her assault by writing it down and sharing it with Rachel. The film highlights Melinda’s journey of healing and self-empowerment in the face of immense adversity.
Cast director: Jessica Sharzer
Cast actor: Kristen Stewart, Elizabeth Perkins, Steve Zahn, Michael Angarano, D. B. Sweeney, Hallee Hirsh, Robert John Burke, Allison Siko, Eric Lively
Original name: Speak