A red vial, contents unknown, dangles from the rearview mirror of a classic, baby blue Dodge. In the front seat two teenage boys, Steven (Garrett Clayton) and Clarence (Johnny James Fiore), exchange a joint. After Steven takes his first long drag he anxiously chuckles to break the silence. Skipping school, though unfamiliar to Steven, beats the alternative; getting bullied. We wonder if this blossoming friendship could possibly save Steven from the ending he has already written for himself.
Reach follows the story of Steven, a senior in high school, who plans to take his own life. Depression, the loss of his mother, and an emotionally distant father adds to Steven’s unfortunate reality. However, a chance encounter with a new student named Clarence gives Steven a flicker of hope. As their friendship grows he learns to live in the moment, becomes more involved with the world around him, and in turn takes control over his own life.
There is More to Bullying than… Bullying
On the surface Reach follows a young man who realizes the importance of his own existence, but underneath this drama holds much, much more. As the plot twists and turns we face not only bullying and suicide, but domestic violence, homophobia, and drug abuse head on.
REACH is about Love, Loss, and Finding Yourself
We’re all on this journey called life, reaching into the abyss hoping to find ourselves. In this author’s opinion, Reach is a story that holds a pertinent message for everyone, but will especially resonate with educators, parents, and youth. If you’ve ever been bullied, felt alone, or experienced loss Reach might be for you.
Reach paints a muddled, but at times strikingly accurate, picture of the teenage lifestyle. Life is complicated, even as a teen.
October was National Bullying Prevention Month. Schools are back in full swing, pushing bullying back in the public eye. As teen suicide continues to rise, it’s important to remember that we never know what someone is going through. Check on your neighbors, especially the ones that seem the happiest.
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Production Crew
Director: Leif Rokesh
Screenwriters: Maria Capp, Johnny James Fiore, & Grant Harling
Cinematographer: Brandon Ruiz
Editors: Dustin Emery & Stephen J. Murray
Music: Rio Mangini
Cast: Garrett Clayton, Johnny James Fiore, Bojesse Christopher, & Jordan Doww
About the Author
Luke McLaughlin is an Indianapolis-based director, actor, and educator, originally from the fields of Central Indiana. Luke serves as the Associate Artistic Director for Frankfort, Indiana’s Red Barn Summer Theatre and teaches at Zionsville High School. Luke graduated from Ball State University with degrees in Theatre and Film Production. When not teaching or working the boards, Luke is either watching a movie, outside enjoying nature, or playing with his adopted terrier Jack.
