The Lonely Dog is a 15-minute film inspired by Alasdair’s story and is intended to generate discussion about what constitutes hazing, why members feel so much pressure to participate, what makes it so difficult to challenge “tradition,” and how to take positive steps to make the pledging process a true bonding experience.
In the film, Connor and his roommate Roshan, two relatable and enthusiastic young men, excitedly join a fraternity with high hopes and expectations. In the beginning, they laugh and joke about the activities they are expected to participate in but over time, the constant chores and tasks start to take a toll on them mentally, academically, physically, and ultimately, tragically.
The events shown in this film reflect activities expected of members of many types of student organizations, ranging from fraternities and sororities to athletics teams to marching bands and other organizations. New members nationwide feel obligated to engage in these demeaning acts as the price they have to pay for membership. By showing relatable, realistic characters, the film drives home the message that hazing can happen to anyone, and hazing has consequences.
Request the free viewing access to film:
The Lonely Dog – a Forever Forward Project LLC Production
Written and Directed by Jacob Seltzer
Produced by Kathleen Sheridan Russell
Starring Brady Gentry as Connor
Facilitation Guide created by the University of Virginia’s Gordie Center with assistance from Kathleen Sheridan Russell.
