When Friendship Kills

When Friendship Kills poster

When Friendship Kills, also known as A Secret Between Friends: A Moment of Truth Movie, is a made-for-television movie that premiered on NBC in 1996. The film is part of the Moment of Truth franchise, a series of TV movies that aired during the 1990s, focusing on various social issues of the time. When Friendship Kills addresses the serious and complex issue of eating disorders, specifically anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa, and their impact on teenagers and their families.

Plot

The story revolves around two high school friends, Lexi Archer (Actress Name) and Jennifer Harnsberger (Actress Name), who strive for perfection in the competitive world of high school. Lexi, influenced by Jennifer, starts engaging in dangerous eating habits in an attempt to lose weight. What begins as a quest for a healthier lifestyle quickly spirals into a dangerous obsession with food, weight, and body image. The film explores the deep psychological impacts of eating disorders, the pressures of teenage life, and the power of friendship amidst life-threatening illnesses.

Themes

When Friendship Kills delves into several themes central to teenage life and the development of eating disorders. These include:

- **Peer Pressure**: The influence friends and social circles have on an individual's behavior and self-perception. - **Body Image**: The film critically examines societal and personal standards of beauty and how they affect young women. - **Family Dynamics**: It highlights the role of family in recognizing and dealing with the signs of eating disorders. - **Recovery and Hope**: The journey towards recovery and the importance of support systems in overcoming eating disorders.

Reception

Upon its release, When Friendship Kills received positive reviews for its sensitive portrayal of eating disorders and its efforts to raise awareness about the dangers of anorexia and bulimia. The performances of the lead actors were particularly praised for their authenticity and depth. The film is often cited as an important work in the genre of social issue TV movies, contributing to public understanding and discussion of eating disorders.

Impact

The film has been used in educational settings as a tool to initiate conversations about eating disorders, body image, and peer pressure among teenagers. It has also been recognized for its role in bringing attention to the signs and symptoms of eating disorders, encouraging early intervention and support for those affected.

See Also

• Eating Disorders
• Anorexia Nervosa
• Bulimia Nervosa
• Moment of Truth (film series)
• Body Image