Skip to main content

Deep Dive: Opening Up (2021)

Film Lens

Opening Up
The documentary 'Opening Up' features Johnny Palum, a stand-up comedian and child sexual abuse survivor, who discusses his experiences and the importance of talking about such topics openly. He shares that he first had sex at eight years old and later created a comedy show based on his experiences, which resonated with many viewers who reached out to share their own stories of childhood abuse. The film emphasizes the need for conversations around child sexual abuse to help survivors heal and to prevent future abuse. Palum interviews Ian, another survivor who publicly spoke about his abuse by a football coach. Ian founded an organization to support other victims in football. The documentary shows that it typically takes individuals 22 years to disclose their abuse and stresses the urgency of creating a society where these conversations can happen freely. The film aims to empower survivors and encourage open discussions to protect future generations from abuse.

Why Watch

  • Meet Johnny Palum, a comedian tackling tough topics.
  • Find out how Ian supports abuse survivors in football.
  • See how comedy can help address serious issues.

Did You Know

Johnny Palum had sex for the first time at eight years old.
It takes an average of 22 years for abuse victims to disclose their experiences.
A thousand children are sexually abused every day in the UK.

Perfect For

Survivors of abuseComedy fansAdvocates for child protection