Writer, director and star of the film, Kabir McNeely brings to life a hauntingly relevant narrative centring on a teenage boy who suffers with an eating disorder. Moe is struggling with his body image, and as a result his mental health is in a particularly bad place. Unkind remarks and bullying take their toll on his self-esteem. Moe believes losing weight is the key to his happiness and hopes that this will help him fit in with his peers.
Because Moe struggles with self-consciousness, gaining the confidence to work out is difficult. However, Coach Skip sees potential in Moe and encourages him to try his best.
Things are tough at home with Moe’s mother and step-father arguing continuously. Amongst the hectic, unstable environment Moe’s mother doesn’t pay close attention to her son, and therefore his deterioration goes largely unnoticed. This only adds to Moe’s sense of isolation. He feels alone in the world and no one understands him.
Unfortunately, even those who seemed committed to help turn to cruel and hurtful rhetoric when Moe is unable to maintain a one-size fits all fitness routine. The supportive environment Moe thought he was in crumbles revealing a harmful discourse behind the façade of being “healthy”.
While Moe attempts to wrestle with his demons, he also tries to maintain the typical life of a teenage boy. Overcoming his social anxiety, Moe makes his way to a party with some kids from school. Once again he is met with the cruelty of others as a group of girls push him out of his comfort zone for their own entertainment.
The film is well shot and edited, and there is evidence of thought being put into the cinematography. On screen, Kabir McNeely captures the essence of a struggling teenager and conveys the emotions of Moe effectively. The supporting cast are strong which gives the film a solid framework, helping to spread the message of the film not only to those directly affected by eating disorders, but also the friends and family around them.
Portraying a male with an eating disorder is an important feature of My Name is Moe as men are typically less likely to speak up about any mental health issues, not just eating disorders. This is a stigma that must be changed – people of all genders deserve help and assistance to overcome their eating disorders.
A competent film with an important subject matter at its heart. Watch the full film below!