“Love, Simon” wants to tell the story of the underrepresented on the big screen. “Representation in general is important,” director Greg Berlanti told Cheddar. “I think it’s better for the audiences, and it’s better for the movies overall.” “Mainstream studio films have a lot of catching up to do with some of the stuff we’ve been doing in television for the past 15 years.” The movie centers around high schooler Simon Spier, whose peers do not know he’s gay. As his secret is revealed, he struggles with coming to terms with his identity. Actress Alexandra Shipp says that the cast not only wanted to educate the audience and showcase the struggles of the LGBT community, but also to encourage people to stand up for those who are being discriminated against. “There’s a scene where Simon is getting accosted by some of his classmates in the lunchroom...Maybe his friends weren’t able to stand up for him, but maybe homeboy in the back of the cafeteria is going to stand up and say, ‘Hey, that’s not OK,’” she said. “That’s what we want. We want those people to feel safe. We want those people to feel represented.” The movie hits theaters Friday.

Share:
More In Culture
How 'Moliving' is Creating Eco-Friendly Mobile Hotel Rooms
Jordan Bem, Founder and CEO of Moliving, joins 'Cheddar Innovates' to discuss how it's creating a mobile, flexible model of hotel rooms to help hotels keep up with seasonal demand, and how its models are made with sustainability in mind.
Rising Above Holiday Stress
It's the most wonderful time of the year, well at least for some people. Yes, it's true that the holiday season can often be a great time to spend with loved ones, but many are finding themselves more stressed out than usual. Michelle Chalfant, licensed therapist and host of the podcast 'The Adult Chair' joins Cheddar News to talk about what's got people stressed. For more tips on how to manage stress visit www.theadultchair.com.
Identifying When It's Time to Take a Mental Health Day
As we move closer toward the end of 2021, many people have moved forward with their lives in an effort to put 2020 behind them. But it turns out, some people are still struggling with the pressures associated with a post-pandemic society. According to a new poll by the American Psychological Association, 32% of American adults are still stressed by the pandemic and it turns out, some of that may have to do with your job. Ted Guastello, chief strategy officer with AMFM Healthcare joins Cheddar News to discuss.
Getty Images and Citi Team Up to Create Diverse Stock Imagery Guidelines
Citi and Getty Images are teaming up to create a new toolkit featuring diverse images. The goal is to offer marketers and companies the opportunity to feature authentic representation, culture, and identity in advertising. The 'Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Imagery Toolkit' will be available in multiple markets around the globe, including the United Kingdom, Singapore, Mexico, and Hong Kong. Tristen Norman, head of creative insights for the Americas at Getty Images to talk about the partnership.
Addressing Sexism and Harassment Women Face in Stand-Up
A new article in The Hollywood reporter is shining a light on the sexism and harassment female comics face in the stand-up community. It also points to the failed attempts women have had in the industry to gain the support of the #MeToo movement. Mona Shaikh, comedian and producer of 'Minority Reportz' at New York Comedy Festival was featured in that article and joins Cheddar News to talk about this issue.
GOP Stunner, Vax for Kids Approved & Braves Win!
Carlo and Baker discuss the election results across the country, including a Republican comeback in Virginia -- and possibly NJ -- plus the CDC gives the go-ahead for child vaccinations, Atlanta wins the World Series and more.
Load More