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Gene Kennedy and Mary Richards ReportingWhen someone talks about domestic violence, we automatically assume we're talking about adults, but a public service movie, made in Sandy, is addressing a different audience -- teens abused by their boyfriend or girlfriend.
Megan Prebble, Abuse Victim: "I just hope at least one girl sees it and thinks, 'Wow this is what's going on with me. I need to get out of this.'"
This 20-minute public service movie will be shown to middle school and high school students throughout the state of Utah.
It wasn't easy for Megan to watch her own starring role because her role looks a lot like a part of her life, and she re-lived it all with each line she said. Prebble was hardly alone in the production. 30 other actors and actresses from a local talent agency played their roles.
The Sandy Police Department helped pay for the movie. One of their officers actually co-wrote the script and directed the film.
Off. Ben Derrick, Director: "I feel great, I just hope it does the job. I hope it does what it's supposed to do for these kids."
The film was made to let teens know abuse isn't just physical, it's mental and emotional too.
Amanda Garrett, Actress: "Yeah that's basically what the movie is trying to portray, and there's absolutely help out if there if you need it."
Unfortunately, so many never seek help, for a variety of reasons.
For Megan Prebble, the cool-crowd factor was one concern.
Megan Prebble, Actress, Violence Victim: "My boyfriend was on the basketball team and people thought he was this great guy. In high school, it's hard."
But maybe a victim playing the victim can help.
It took a year to make the 20 minute video, which was shown to a packed theater this morning. This will be shown to middle school students and high school students in Sandy, and they're sending it to every high school and junior high in the state, in the hope that other schools in Utah will also use the video.
Sandy Police say domestic violence stats are up 7% in their city, and up to 80% of teens know someone who has experienced dating violence.
