With the advent of the Internet and the Smart Phone, the world has radically changed. While these devices feel like they’ve been part of the fabric of society forever, it’s been just shy of 20 years. The Smart Phone debuted in 2007, and since that time has made connection with those around us and around the world easier than ever.

But the flip side of every virtue is a fault, and the Internet, Smart Phones, and Social Media have certainly proved problematic for many. Most heavily impacted are teens, who’ve grown up in a different world and become subject to different problems.

The new documentary Your Attention Please, which debuted at the SXSW Film Festival last month, seeks to focus on the dangerous impact these apps are making on the mental health of our nation’s teens. The film dives deep into the issues and into those who are trying to find a way to combat the struggles.

This includes following Kristin, a grieving mother whose son took his own life after constant cyberbullying. She spends her time educating and advocating for changes to the platforms to protect others, like her son, who are at risk.

It also follows Trisha, a digital native who thinks the Internet can be something different. She’s dedicated her talent and her career toward creating a different kind of online experience, and to raising awareness to the pitfalls of Social Media.

And the film looks at others who’ve tried to free themselves of the online trap. Some have adopted technology free days or weeks. Some have made school a Smart Phone free space to better protect the development and mental health of young people. It’s about everyone recognizing the issues and seeking to come up with a creative and lasting solution.

I remember when I was in college things like AOL Instant Messenger, and even Facebook, were just coming into existence. It was a fun way to connect, but it also began to change communication. In the more than 20 years since, we’ve seen technology rapidly evolve, as have the problems and addictions that come from having a computer in the palm of your hand more powerful than many had previously ever seen.

I’ve seen the impact the online world can have first-hand. I appreciated the approach of this film that tries to outline the problems but doesn’t leave in a hopeless place. It’s not an easy problem to solve, as is born out in this documentary. Many people are fighting hard to come up with solutions, but it rarely goes as planned. And we’re a long way from achieving the end goal of keeping young people safe and healthy.

There aren’t easy answers, but this film probes the questions and looks at those fighting for change. It’s a good reminder of the importance of this fight for the future, and a compelling look at those who have a vision of a better future. It’s worth checking out to learn more about what’s happening and what you can do to help get involved.

To learn more about this film and its subjects, visit the official site at https://www.yourattentionplz.com/

Rating: 3.5 out of 5.

Matthew Fox is a graduate of the Radio, Television and Film program at Biola University, and a giant nerd. He spends his free time watching movies, TV, and obsessing about football. He is a member of the FSWA. You can find him @knighthawk7734 on Twitter and as co-host of the Fantasy Football Roundtable Podcast.

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