The Student Body

The Student Body is a thought-provoking, 2016 release, directed by Bailey Webber and co-written by Bailey Webber and Michael Webber. This documentary unexpectedly thrusts viewers into a captivating exploration of a lesser-discussed part of contemporary society—childhood obesity and the way educational institutions handle this sensitive issue. The film skillfully uses a balanced mix of humor, outrage, and empathy, thus ensuring that viewers find themselves deeply engaged in its compelling narrative.

The narrative primarily revolves around Bailey Webber, who is a quiet, ordinary high school girl in her Midwest town. This normal life takes a dramatic turn when she stumbles upon the hidden world of "BMI report cards" in educational institutions. These report cards assign the Body Mass Index (BMI) of students and can label them as overweight or obese, which sparks something in Webber. From there on, the Student Body delves into her crusade against these controversial body-shaming laws prevalent throughout most states in America.

As an aspiring journalist, Bailey documents her journey in this feature-length documentary, going beyond the four walls of her school and beyond borders of her town, to bring the reality of these laws in front of the viewers. Her courage and unyielding motivation to fight against this practice provide an inspiring narrative that drives the movie.

Co-starring Holly Allen, Martin Binks, and Laura Bruij-Williams, alongside educators, law-makers, health care providers, and kids, The Student Body does more than just featuring these individuals. It gives them a voice to share their side of the story. Martin Binks, a health psychologist and professor in the documentary, gives professional insights about the effects that such ‘BMI letters’ can have on students. Meanwhile, Holly Allen’s role as representative of the legislation aspect of the issue, and Laura Bruij-Williams highlighting the school's perspective, embody the multifaceted dimensions of the problem.

This documentary stands out for its heartening take on children's rights, backed by captivating storytelling. It makes a cutting critique on society, policymakers, and others who have failed to address the effects of BMI report cards on children's psychology, as well as the subsequent anxiety and stigmatization they face.

Simultaneously, the directors have managed to pull together statistics and interviews, in such a way, that they don't overwhelm the viewer, but rather keep them gripped and intrigued throughout. The film also masterfully navigates a balanced path of presenting the subject in a light-hearted manner, without undermining the seriousness and depth of the topic.

The Student Body can be summed up as a powerful documentary that doesn't hesitate to challenge the status quo. It tactfully addresses a critical, contemporary issue affecting thousands of American children daily. Bailey Webber’s journey unravels a complex question for its viewers—Who decides what is "healthy" for a child? The parents? The child? Or the school? And in doing this, it forces viewers to examine their own beliefs about body image, self-esteem, and institutional practices.

The direction and cinematography are smooth and congruent, giving a realistic touch to the depiction of events. Rather than presenting a mere collage of interviews, the narrative also captures interactions, protests, discussions at various levels, thereby giving audiences a panoramic view of the issue at hand.

In conclusion, The Student Body is an inspiring example of youth activism and advocacy. It highlights the weighty issue of obesity, taking it beyond the realm of health to examine societal attitudes, policy, and implications for student’s mental well-being. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in understanding body-shaming from a new perspective, an issue that has become more prevalent in modern society. The movie strikes a chord not just with young viewers but with parents, educators, and policymakers alike, urging them to reevaluate the systems in place.