Prayers for Bobby is a 2009 American film of a true story, that explores teenage homosexuality, religion, blame and suicide. Growing up gay is hard enough, but without your family supporting you it can feel impossible.

Having watched this on Josh’s advice, I think it is a really open and honest portrayal of the anguish that is part and parcel of being a gay teenager. Whilst not likely to convert the pope, hopefully this film will help people realise that condeming lectures don’t help, and that gay people can still be normal and loving.

Bobby (Ryan Kelley) knows he’s okay, thanks largely to a single understanding cousin. But he can’t shake the burden of disappointing his mother, and the loss of her complete rejection, which leads to tragedy.

My own story is quite similar, but less extreme. Whilst the initial shock to my mother almost destroyed us, luckily it calmed down enough, and 5 years later she is now adequately accepting, if not entirely supportive. I will send her a copy of this film, just to let her know she made the right choice.

The film itself is nothing special, a simple storyline with almost everything explained to the letter. Whilst not exactly a blockbuster, the message is powerful and direct, and it’s definitely worth a watch.

It took the death of her son to bring Bobby’s mother to terms with the pain she had caused him, and she continues to work to stop other gay teenagers falling foul of the same ignorance and pain.

Video after the break…

If you want a better explanation of the film (with spoilers), check out this video from 5SSG’s Scotty:

It confronts the difficult issues of homosexuality with maturity and dignity, rather than comedy or satire.

The lead roles are played excellently by Robert Stadlober and Kostja Ullmann (both very good-looking), the music is perfect and the cinematography is spot on. Even though it’s in German (with subtitles), I found it incredibly easy to follow, with the powerful moments of dramatic pause and awkward silence communicating more emotion than any dialogue could.

I strongly suggest you check it out. And to help, here’s a few videos and hi-resolution pictures:

Check out Sommersturm on IMDB.