A—Holes A Theory Documentary at TIFF 2019
On this journey of resilience, I had the opportunity to be part of the documentary by John Walker, Assholes A Theory, based on the best-selling book by Aaron James.
John and his film crew had come to my hometown to film and discuss the workplace bullying I had to deal with during my 20 year career in the RCMP. But he also wanted to show the resilience and why speaking up about bullying/asshole behavior is important. They are everywhere, in our schools, boardrooms, cyber space, politics and workplaces.
After meeting John I bought Arrons’s book. Interestingly, I found many relatable examples dealing with and suffering from the many a–holes.
Wait, nice girls don’t say that word? Yes they do. We all know that type of personality who truly believes that they are entitled, that sense of entitlement, to be at the head of the line and not wait, they cut you off in traffic, no accountability, blame everyone else, yell and scream at the office because they are in that position of power.
It was an honour to attend the Canadian premiere of the Documentary at the Toronto International Film Festival on April 30 and May 1, 2019 for two of the shows ‘Assholes A Theory’. Powerful stories of real people who have had to deal with a–holes trolling on the internet and attacking them.
The documentary stating the reality, blended with humor, John Cleese, and hope.
It was indeed a thrill to meet the art designer, script writer, the music choreographer, other guests and share in the celebration of pushing back the assholes/bullying.
It is a team effort. Similar to ending bullying, it is everyone’s responsibility.
After the screening a few of us were called up on stage for a Q & A. For the audience, the documentary explains why some folks truly believe that they have a right to behave a certain way free from any consequences.
Sometimes we need see the reality of bullying on victims’ and all of society. Pushing back is in sharing education, encouragement and tools for empowerment. Looking at life as a global community and we need to be respectful.
The link below is the CTV interview with director John Walker and author, Aaron James.
https://www.ctvnews.ca/mobile/video?clipId=1672153
Keeping the conversation going to create that positive change. There is no room for ‘assholeness’ in our homes, government, public spaces, social media and in the workplace. Never give up. Every voice, your voice counts.