Case of Clare, The

Synopsis: At age 14, Clare Simpson hung herself in her bedroom using the family dog’s leash. She left a suicide note which named three girls from her school whom had systematically bullied and threatened her. The three girls were held accountable in a precedent setting court case. Relational aggression, suicide, bullying, Restorative Justice and the actions and consequences of not only the three bullies but also that of their victim, are explored in depth.
The film unfolds through probing, seamless and poignant interviews with members of Clare’s family, one of the female bullies, legal professionals, the female Judge who presided over the initial landmark court case, a mother whose son was the victim of bullying, a journalist who covered the trials, a government official and others. Most remarkable is the underlying theme of forgiveness, despite grief and anger. Just when you begin to despise one of the bullies, some remarkable scene or comment makes you feel compassion towards the girl who feels remorse in her role of causing the suicide of a former friend.
Language: English
Country: United States
Availability: out of distribution
Subjects: Psychology; Social welfare
Keywords: aggression; bereavement; bullying at school; social psychology; suicide

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British Universities Film & Video Council