Growing Up Gay

"Growing Up Gay" is a poignant and compelling documentary presented by Olly Alexander, who is not only one of the UK's most charismatic popstars, but also a popular LGBT personality. Olly, the lead singer of the indie-pop band, Years and Years, utilises this movie's platform to shed light on the issue of homosexuality and the struggles that accompany it, particularly during the formative years of one's life. He does this by sharing his own personal journey of growing up gay.

The documentary begins with Olly, born in Gloucestershire in 1990, introducing himself and offering glimpses into his childhood. As he walks us through his formative years, he reveals the challenges that come with growing up as a gay man in a primarily straight environment. He paints a vivid picture of the confusion, fear, shame, and isolation he felt during his journey of self-acceptance amidst a society riddled with homophobia.

Olly's candid confession serves as a springboard to delve deeper into the harrowing impact that societal pressure can have on the mental health of LGBTQ+ people, particularly adolescents. The movie is interspersed with disturbing evidence, backed by data, highlighting the alarmingly high rates of anxiety, depression, self-harm, and suicidal tendencies among this demographic cohort.

The stark realities of 'Coming Out', often a dreaded process, is also on the documentary's agenda. Olly brings to light the complexities involved in coming out to family and friends and the subsequent impact on existing relationships. He also addresses the psychological strain that can result from homophobia, both overt and covert.

However, "Growing Up Gay" isn't all gloom and despair. The narrative considerations reflect the all-encompassing nature of Olly's journey, highlighting his triumphs as well. The artist is very open about his career, speaking about finding solace in music, and ultimately how it served as an outlet for him to express his feelings. Olly's rise in the music world, as an openly gay artist, is testament to his resilience and sends out a powerful message of hope and acceptance.

The film takes a pivotal turn as Olly prepares to meet a young gay teen struggling with depression and self-harm. This meeting paints a heart-rending yet honest picture of the grim reality many gay adolescents face. Simultaneously, it becomes a window into Olly’s compassion and dedication to providing support to those walking the path he once did. The tangible, positive impact of such support on the youngster's mental health underscores the importance of mentorship, guidance, understanding, and acceptance in the lives of gay youth.

Olly also interacts with professionals working in the areas of mental health and LGBTQ+ rights. These dialogues introduce essential aspects concerning mental health assistance and the importance of comprehensive sex education. Notably, the discussions shed light on the urgent need for a more inclusive and accepting educational system, one that doesn't shy away from discussing diverse sexuality and gender identities, thus helping reduce the stigma and mental health issues that many gay youth struggle with.

At its core, "Growing Up Gay" is a heartfelt appeal to society, imploring for better understanding, empathy, and acceptance. It is a passionate call for social, familial, and educational reform, advocating for LGBTQ+ mental health support and systematic acknowledgment of their lives and experiences in schools and homes.

While documenting an array of serious, often overlooked issues, the film does manage to weave in lighter moments, with Olly's endearing personality adding a layer of warmth to the movie. With its blend of personal storytelling, statistical data, emotional encounters, and insightful discussions, the film strikes the right balance between educating and stirring emotions in the viewer.

"Growing Up Gay" is a vital documentary that manages to be at once informative, emotional, and empowering as it navigates its sensitive subject matter. It functions not just as Olly Alexander's personal narrative but as a greater commentary on the struggles that countless others in the LGBTQ+ community face. Though it can be heart-wrenching to watch at times, the overarching message is hopeful and vital – a beacon of light reaching out to anyone facing similar experiences.