Speech & Debate (2017)

In the ending of "Speech & Debate," the three main characters--Diwata, Solomon, and Howie--come together to confront their personal struggles and the challenges they face in their lives. They participate in a final debate competition, where they express their truths and confront the issues that have been plaguing them. The film concludes with a sense of resolution as they find their voices and support each other, ultimately leading to a hopeful future.

As the final act unfolds, the scene opens in the school auditorium, where the debate competition is set to take place. The atmosphere is charged with anticipation, and the audience buzzes with excitement. Diwata, Solomon, and Howie gather backstage, each grappling with their own insecurities and fears. Diwata, who has been struggling with her identity and the pressure of being a young woman in a competitive environment, takes a deep breath, trying to muster the confidence she needs to perform.

The first round of the debate begins, and the trio takes the stage. Solomon, who has been dealing with the fallout of his father's actions and the impact on his own life, speaks passionately about the importance of honesty and integrity. His words resonate with the audience, and he feels a surge of empowerment as he shares his truth. The camera captures the intensity in his eyes, reflecting his internal battle and the relief of finally being able to express himself.

Next, Diwata steps forward, her voice trembling at first but growing stronger as she discusses the challenges faced by marginalized voices in society. She draws from her own experiences, and the emotional weight of her speech captivates the audience. The scene shifts to close-ups of her face, revealing the determination and vulnerability she carries. As she finishes, the applause is thunderous, and she feels a sense of belonging and acceptance that she has longed for.

Howie, who has been struggling with his own identity and the pressures of fitting in, takes the stage last. He speaks about the importance of friendship and support, reflecting on the bond he has formed with Diwata and Solomon. His heartfelt words touch the audience, and he feels a sense of relief as he shares his struggles openly. The camera captures the tears in his eyes, showcasing the emotional release he experiences in this moment.

As the debate concludes, the trio stands together, united in their shared experiences and newfound strength. They receive recognition for their performances, but more importantly, they have found their voices and a sense of community among themselves. The final scene shows them walking out of the auditorium together, laughter and camaraderie filling the air. The camera pans out, capturing the vibrant energy of their friendship and the hope that lies ahead.

In the closing moments, the film emphasizes the importance of self-expression, acceptance, and the power of friendship. Each character has faced their own demons and emerged stronger, ready to face the future with a renewed sense of purpose and connection. The screen fades to black, leaving the audience with a sense of hope and the understanding that they are not alone in their struggles.

In the movie "Speech & Debate," there is no post-credit scene. The film concludes without any additional scenes or content after the credits roll. The story wraps up with the main characters reflecting on their experiences and the growth they have undergone throughout the narrative, focusing on themes of friendship, identity, and the challenges of adolescence. The absence of a post-credit scene allows the audience to leave with the emotional weight of the characters' journeys fresh in their minds.

Solomon is motivated by a desire to find a sense of belonging and purpose. He feels isolated and struggles with his identity, particularly as a gay teenager in a conservative environment. The speech and debate club becomes a way for him to connect with others and express himself.

Diwata starts as a confident and outspoken student who is passionate about social issues. However, as the story progresses, she faces personal challenges that force her to confront her vulnerabilities. Her journey reveals her insecurities and the pressure she feels to maintain her strong persona, ultimately leading her to embrace her true self.

Howie serves as a bridge between the other characters, often providing comic relief while also being a source of support. His laid-back attitude contrasts with the more intense personalities of Solomon and Diwata, and he helps to lighten the mood during tense moments. However, he also grapples with his own issues, including his feelings for Diwata, which complicate the group's dynamics.

The debate topics chosen by the characters often reflect their personal struggles and societal issues they care about. For instance, Solomon debates topics related to LGBTQ+ rights, which allows him to voice his experiences and challenges. Diwata tackles issues of feminism and social justice, using her platform to address her own insecurities. These debates become a cathartic outlet for them, helping them to confront their fears and advocate for change.

The final debate scene is significant as it encapsulates the growth of the characters and their relationships. It serves as a culmination of their individual journeys, showcasing their newfound confidence and ability to articulate their beliefs. The stakes are high, and the emotional weight of their personal stories is laid bare, making it a powerful moment of self-acceptance and solidarity among the group.

"Speech & Debate," produced in 2017, is a film that explores themes of identity, sexuality, and the challenges of adolescence through the lens of high school students involved in a speech and debate club. While it has comedic elements, there are several aspects that may be considered objectionable or upsetting for children or sensitive viewers.

1. Mature Themes: The film addresses topics such as sexual orientation, coming out, and the complexities of teenage relationships, which may be challenging for younger audiences to fully understand.

2. Language: There are instances of strong language that may not be suitable for children, including profanity and crude jokes.

3. Sexual Content: The film includes discussions and references to sexual experiences and relationships, which may be inappropriate for younger viewers.

4. Bullying and Social Issues: Characters face bullying and social ostracism, which can be distressing for sensitive viewers, as it touches on the emotional struggles of fitting in and acceptance.

5. Parental Relationships: Some scenes depict strained relationships between teenagers and their parents, which may resonate with some viewers but could also be upsetting for others.

Overall, while "Speech & Debate" has valuable messages about self-acceptance and friendship, its mature content may not be suitable for all audiences, particularly younger children.