From Under The Bridge: When Bullies Become Trolls

Personal statement (if you read nothing else, please read this):

Bullying • Cyber-Bullying • Suicide • Based on a Shocking and Twisted TRUE STORY

The 2021 multi award-winning film (including Grand Jury and Audience Choice 'Best Short Film' at 'Dances With Films' and the 'Awareness Film Festival) - ‘From Under The Bridge: When Bullies Become Trolls’ - was inspired by, and is based on the true story of Megan Meier. Megan took her own life 3 weeks prior to her 14th birthday after a severe cyber-bullying attack, which was orchestrated by an adult.

BULLYING and CYBER-BULLYING continue to rise, while seriously affecting, damaging and destroying lives. And with over 4.66 billion people accessing the internet across the globe (60% of the world's population), the stage, platforms, opportunities and techniques for CYBER-BULLYING are dramatically and continuously expanding and exploding! Of the 4.66 billion people accessing the internet across the globe, 4.33 use social media (93%).

Sadly, CYBER-BULLYING is a prominent and powerful relative trend, which is growing at a frightening pace. Bullying has become possible from anywhere in the world, with far more anonymity than ever, while the absence of accountability and responsibility soars. We must all recognize this massive problem and 'be the change'.

I have been passionate about this story and developing the script for over 12 years. In addition to experiencing personal abuse, I have witnessed the bullying and abuse of people close to me, with tragic and devastating results. With the introduction of my 2 beautiful daughters into this world, and the current state of society, I knew it was time to produce this film.

And now the film is partnered with the Megan Meier Foundation, and I have established a personal and meaningful relationship with Megan's mother and founder of the foundation, the personal and public importance of the film has reached new heights. I'm incredibly proud of this film and all that encompasses it.

Paul James Houghton.

'From Under The Bridge: When Bullies Become Trolls' is a carefully tailored multi-faceted bullying and cyber-bullying film, centered around a primary story based on real events, while capturing supporting stories without disruption to the flow of the film. The captivating plot features real issues and features an array of characters approaching the story from contrasting angles, including the 'waterfall' effects of abuse. The script is powerful, while bringing awareness through creative storytelling.
Clare is a lonely and insecure high school girl, trying to navigate her way through the dark shadows of her depression, which is fueled by multiple factors.

Clare finds herself in a new chapter of her life, without her mother or any friends, while her bullies target her regularly and with increasing severity. Her loving father is overwhelmed, but trying desperately to bridge the void between them, which hides the secrets behind his daughter's state of mind.

But then suddenly from the darkness there is light. Clare is presented with the possibility of happiness, as she connects with a charming, attractive and seemingly caring teenage boy through social media. He listens to her, compliments and flatters her... and he is in college!

Surely, this chance encounter will change everything? And indeed, it surely does...

This tale is captivating, emotional and shocking. For some, it will be seriously relatable. But more than anything, we hope it leaves you pondering... what can YOU do to help?