Santa Sabina student uses short film to discuss homophobia
BELLA Merlino may be just 13 years old but she is determined to use her voice to help those who are afraid to speak out.
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BELLA Merlino may be just 13 years old but she is determined to use her voice to help those who are afraid to speak out.
The Santa Sabina student picked up two awards at the REELise Film Festival for her short film This is Me.
She was announced the winner of two awards for her piece, the best film intermediate and the Touch of Pink award.
The film explores homophobia and the importance of the yes vote. It also explores problems around bullying.
Her passion for acting and filmmaking also won her the 2017 REELise Best Film Junior title last year with her film Dear Brother. It tells the story of a family torn apart when a young man commits suicide as a result of cyberbullying.
The Year 8 student said This is Me all started with a simple brainstorm.
“My parents were surprised I chose that topic but thought it was a great idea because not many people would, and most people my age would be scared to approach that topic and talk about it comfortably in a film,” Bella said. “My previous films both addressed bullying like this one.
“I think that’s one way we can try and stop bullying.”
When Bella showed her family the film, they cried. She is already looking forward to next year’s film festival and while she is still weighing up her options, she said she will probably stick with the theme of bullying.