SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KTIV) -
"Bully" landed in Sioux City theaters Friday. Partially shot in the district, it showcases the troubling story of a Sioux City teen and what others across the country have faced.
The candid and powerful documentary originally received an "R" rating from the Motion Picture Association of America, which limited the ability of its target audience, teens, to see it.
But after public outcry, it was re-edited and re-released with a PG-13 rating.
Kathryn Milligan has got her ticket.
"I'm shaky," she said.
Not because she's excited, but scared. Almost two years ago, her 11-year-old nephew, Ty Smalley, committed suicide. He's featured in the film.
"He was bullied at school for a couple of years and got to the point where he couldn't take it anymore," said Milligan.
It's personal stories, like Ty's, "Bully" chronicles in its 98 minutes. The film travels across the U.S., even hitting home with the story of Sioux City student Alex Libby, who struggles with being a target in school and on the bus.
"Does it make you feel good when they punch you, or kick you, or stab you," asked Alex's mom in the film.
"No," said Alex.
A mother of two, Tracy Erlandson, was at the movies instead of working Friday.
"I wanted to bring my kids to the movie, but I wanted to see it before I bring a seven year old and a nine year old," she said.
She's concerned her kids could be the next victims.
"My fear is that the kids who really need to see it, the ones who are the bullies are not going to be seeing the movie unless it's being played in the schools," said Erlandson.
In the end, many will find "Bully" gives a hard tug at the heart strings. It did for Milligan, who left with tears in her eyes and questions on her mind.
"Why does it have to happen, why do kids hurt, parents hurt? Why can't everybody just get along," she said.
