INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — The documentary ‘Fortunate,’ produced by John Bard Manulis and directed by Emmy-award winning filmmaker Peter Jones, explores masculinity, mental health, and vulnerability through the lens of a group of men who attended Harvard School for Boys in 1968. The film, released ahead of International Men’s Day on November 19, captures their reconnection via Zoom during the COVID pandemic.
In 1968, seventy-two 12-year-old boys entered the 7th grade at Harvard School for Boys, an elite military academy in Los Angeles. Born into privilege, these men spent the next 50 years navigating cultural revolutions and personal challenges.
Their reconnection during the pandemic led to candid conversations about universal issues such as hopes and fears, family dysfunction, addiction, ambition, failure, and achievement.
“It really succeeds on the basis of these guys and their relationships, their trust, their vulnerability, their willingness to open up about their lives with each other,” said John Bard Manulis, producer of ‘Fortunate.’
The documentary captures the evolution of masculinity from the perspective of men who were groomed to lead America during the 1960s.
As they reconnected, they shared their experiences and struggles, offering insights into the changing perceptions of masculinity and mental health.
The film highlights the impact of the COVID pandemic in fostering connections among the men. “I don’t think this would have happened in this way without COVID and without Zoom,” Manulis noted, emphasizing the role of technology in facilitating intimate conversations.
The documentary also includes a community engagement campaign as part of its distribution strategy, aiming to foster discussions around mental health and masculinity. Manulis hopes that the film will serve as a permission structure for men to embrace vulnerability as a source of strength.
‘Fortunate’ offers a powerful exploration of masculinity and mental health, encouraging men to embrace vulnerability and connection. As these men share their stories, the film aims to challenge long-held assumptions and inspire broader conversations on these critical topics.