A middle-schooler’s short film has taken the internet by storm, racking up over 1.6 million views on YouTube since its release on May 28. The talented 14-year-old, Mia Thompson, created the film Stereo as part of an assignment at the Cinematic Arts Academy in Los Angeles. It starts with the powerful narrated message: “Since the dawn of time, boys and girls have been boxed in by societal expectations.”
The voiceover declares, “It’s all a drag. Boys wear pink, girls wear blue. Boys wear dresses, while girls are told they can’t. We’re seen as the tough ones. We play sports. If a boy shows interest in ballet, he’s told to ‘man up’ and focus on something else.”
Mia explained that her film was inspired by her passion for addressing gender stereotypes and her belief that clothing and colors should be free from gender bias. So, she envisioned a world where gender norms are flipped entirely.
In this world, boys don makeup and dresses, while girls are expected to excel in sports and not be the “sensitive theater types,” as one character’s mother puts it. However, the protagonist, Jamie (played by Mia herself), longs for something different. While shopping with her mom, she spots a lovely dress, but is quickly scolded for looking in the “boys’ section.” Jamie’s true aspiration? Not to join the football team, but to star in the school musical.
As Jamie watches a video of the first female Broadway star, she finally finds her voice. “It’s just a piece of fabric,” she asserts. “I want to wear that dress. I want to paint my nails. And I want to be in the school musical too! You’re my mom, and I love you, but I wish you’d support me.” These poignant words challenge the absurdity of conventional gender roles, especially when voiced by an impressive 13-year-old filmmaker.
The next day, Jamie struts into school in that beautiful dress, hair styled, nails shining. The looks from classmates can’t faze her; her newfound confidence is palpable. She boldly signs up for the musical, inspiring another girl to follow suit. This film beautifully illustrates the importance of being true to oneself and how one person’s courage can ripple out to others.
In a follow-up video, Mia shares her goal: “If I can help just one person feel heard and understood, then I’ve done my job.” She plans to create more content, including vlogs and advice videos, because, as she put it, “I just want to help people.”
When asked what message she has for parents, Mia emphasizes that they should encourage their kids to embrace who they are, free from societal pressures. “Parents should raise their kids to accept everything and everyone, including themselves,” she advises. “Stereotypes can be suffocating, and kids should be taught to love what they like, regardless of societal expectations.”
As a parent of a 7-year-old who loves to belt out Hamilton, I couldn’t agree more. And don’t worry — Mia’s film also offers wisdom for kids. “Just be yourself. If you want to wear a dress, wear it and own it! Life is too short to not do what makes you happy.” This genuine, youthful feminism is refreshing, and Mia represents a hopeful future. Keep an eye on her; her creative journey is just beginning!
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Summary:
Mia Thompson, a 14-year-old filmmaker, created the short film Stereo to challenge gender stereotypes, highlighting the importance of self-acceptance and individuality. By flipping traditional gender roles, she inspires viewers to embrace who they are, encouraging kids to break free from societal expectations. Her film has garnered millions of views, showcasing the power of youth voices in addressing important social issues.