But where the film stuns and surprises is through its nuanced approach.
It seemed very fragmented and restrictive and limited and not whole in truth.
So that was something that I always was, in some shape or form, pushing against.
I think that just came out in the film I made as an adult.
Kids can be pretty cruel, and especially the sports world is even tougher with that kind of topic.
A character like Ballas really cares so much of what his peers think about him.
I understand the struggle he was going through.
Ive auditioned for many gay characters and Ive played quite a few, as well, he says.
It wouldve been a really boring scene if it was just purely ass-kicking.
Just that added dynamic, it really hit home on our emotions.
It was a lot of fun to do, but it definitely had its toll on us.
It was an exhausting scene to film.
Through spray-painted messages on the kids school lockers, the film also tackles the ripple effect around labeling.
Im proud to be your father.
I think so many people, whatever your orientation or situation, just really wants to hear that.
I wanted to have heard that.
Its optimistic, he adds.
You know theyre going to be okay and theyre turning the page.
Giant Little Ones, currently screening in limited New York theaters, expands this Friday to select cities.
