Movie Review: The Fat Boy Chronicles

Title: The Fat Boy Chronicles
Street Date: January 3, 2012
Run Time: 78 minutes
Suggested Retail: $29.99 US
Director: Jason Winn
Actors: Ron Lester, Cole Carson

As the parent of a bullied child, this was a movie I looked forward to watching with my family. The Fat Boy Chronicles by Phase 4 Films, tackles this and several other painful issues that kids face today. This movie is inspired by the true story of Jimmy Winterpock, a 14 year old High School freshman who is terrorized by his peers for his size. He is forced to endure many humiliations, such as name calling, teasing, and even physical violence.
You see, all Jimmy wants to do is fit in. He wants to feel "normal" and accepted. The kids at school don't make this easy on him at all. Jimmy writes about these often painful occurrences in a journal that he must keep for class.

When Jimmy goes to the doctor for a routine physical, he breaks down and confesses to the physician that at 5'5" tall and 188lbs, life at school isn't exactly pleasant. Jimmy then decides to get serious about taking his weight problem into his own hands, and with the support of his family, his church, and the few close friends he has, he begins a weight loss journey fueled by running and making healthier eating choices. It proves to be a long, hard road, but Jimmy never gives up._

While it may appear that this movie is simply about an overweight kid who suffers bullying, there is actually a lot more to this story. As Jimmy faces his own problems, his best friends struggle with issues of their own, such as living with abusive, alcoholic parents, one of whom commits suicide, cutting, and many other issues that face far too many kids today. This movie does not sugar coat the problems that teen often face in today's world and offers a realistic, often heartbreaking glimpse into what it's like to be in Jimmy's shoes.

Check out this trailer:

Overall, I think this is a must see movie for families, teachers, and school administrators. Even if your kids are some of the lucky ones that don't get bullied, The Fat Boy Chronicles can still teach valuable lessons, like perseverance, kindness, and how to stand up against bullying should they witness it. My son, who is a victim of bullying, could definitely relate to this film and said it made him feel better to see the bullied kid come out on top. Jimmy's inspiring story proves that there is a light at the end of the tunnel and that things really DO get better. The Fat Boy Chronicles gets an enthusiastic thumbs up from my family. Check it out!


This movie may be purchased through major retailers, various video-on-demand and digtial outlets. It is also available on Amazon.

***Disclosure:  I received a copy of The Fat Boy Chronicles through Phase 4 Films. All opinions are 100% honest and have not been influenced in any way. No other compensation was received for this post.***