Alcorn to host “He Ain’t Heavy” film screening to discuss and prevent hazing
Alcorn to host “He Ain’t Heavy” film screening to discuss and prevent hazing
Alcorn State University will host an exclusive screening of the film “He Ain’t Heavy” that reveals the reality of hazing and a fraternity pledge process that got out of control. The red carpet affair featuring filmmaker Jeff Obafemi Carr, will be held on Tuesday, February 5, 2013, at 6:00 p.m. in the James L. Bolden Campus Union Ballroom.
“Watching this exceptional film is aimed at bringing the University community together for honest discussion about hazing and its horrible consequences,” stated Vice President for Student Affairs E. Cheryl Ponder. “We invite our community members to join the free screening and post-screening discussion.”
Filmmaker Carr and Alcorn President M. Christopher Brown II will engage in an in-depth post-screening discussion with students, faculty, staff and all in attendance.
The movie is based on true events. It takes place in 2011, when five college students began the pledge process for a prestigious African-American fraternity. A graduate film student and a fraternity member captured their journey on everyday equipment. Weeks into the process, an early morning 911 call led police to a high school football field, where they discovered the body of one of the pledges. Months later, over 30 hours of striking footage has been compiled into a groundbreaking film that blurs the line between fact and fiction. “He Ain’t Heavy” is the first film to capture what it actually feels like to pledge. There are no special effects in this gritty, largely unscripted film. All the sweat, dirt, contact, tears, and physical challenges you see are real. Viewer warning: the movie contains strong language and intense series of physical and emotional violence.
Click here to view the trailer.
Guests will have an opportunity to ask questions and take photos with filmmaker Carr during a reception after the event.
For more information and to RSVP, contact Alice Shannon at [email protected] or 601-877-6380.
