Boys and young men are struggling. It’s time to talk about it.

Over the past fifty years, boys and young men have steadily disengaged from school, work, and broader society. They’re falling behind academically, struggling with loneliness and isolation, and facing rising rates of substance abuse and suicide.

This 45-minute documentary draws on the influential work of Richard V. Reeves’ “Of Boys and Men”, illuminating these challenges through powerful data and compelling personal stories. Many of us have experienced these issues first-hand, but it can be difficult to talk about them. It’s not zero-sum: caring more about boys and men does not mean caring less about women and girls.

Set in rural Vermont, the film brings national data to life with engaging animation accompanying lived experience featuring young men, educators, mentors, and trailblazing programs that are working to re-engage boys and young men in their communities and reshape their futures.

Content advisory: This film includes references to substance use, suicide, and mental health struggles.

The screening will be followed by a panel discussion. Find more information and watch the trailer at GoneGuysFilm.com.

Presented by The Richard E. & Deborah L. Tarrant Foundation and The Vermont Community Foundation. A Well Told Films Production.

Media Sponsor: Vermont Public

Rutland Screening Co-Host: Social Tinkering