Unbroken Teaches Troubled Teens to Never Give Up

During the holidays, movies play a big role in teen entertainment. Movies shape and inspire young adults in ways that help them form their own opinions. Troubled teens can learn a few things from films that teach life lessons from inspiring true stories.

The movie Unbroken is a 2014 motion picture release directed by Angelina Jolie and stars Jack O' Connel. The film is based on Louis "Louie" Zamperini a former prisoner of war (POW) during the Second World War. Jolie decided to direct the film because Zamperini's story had to be told to the world. This man lived a long life which was characterized by greatness, sorrow, courage, triumph and even defeats.

Louis was born in Orlean, New York when in 1917. His parents were Italian immigrants who could not speak any English. When Louis was a teenager, his parents moved out to California. They had been situated there for a short while and still could not speak English. Louis was being bullied so much that his father had to show him how to box. Once Louis learned how to fight he started to bully other people. His brother Pete got him involved in track and field to keep him out of trouble.

Louis then became such a track star that he eventually represented the U.S. in the 1936 Games. Zamperini finished 8th place in the 5000-meter so he did not medal. However, the infamous Nazi leader Adolf Hitler was present at the games and he requested a meeting with Louis.

Eventually, Zamperini enlisted in the Army during World War II. During the course of his service, his plane had malfunctioned leaving the survivors stranded at sea. Zamperini and two other members of his crew had to survive in the ocean for 37 days. One of his other crewmen had died during that time. Zamperini and the last remaining crewman ended up being captured by the Japanese. During their captivity within a POW camp; Zamperini inspired the men through his actions and words. He was very popular within the camps though he suffered a lot of abuse and humiliation during this time.

As with all bad things, Zamperini's time in the POW camp came to an end. He eventually made it back home and settled into life. Years after his return home Zamperini became a Christian. He then used his newfound belief to forgive his Japanese captors who had tormented him for many years. During the remaining years of his life, Zamperini became an avid evangelist for Christ and a public speaker.

Troubled teens and young adults who watch the move Unbroken will see how Zamperini's life played out during the prison camp. They will witness how this man's powerful spirit and grit would not allow him to be broken by the hatred and anger of his Japanese captors. Zamperini overcame many obstacles during his captivity and he had to fight against many demons. He ultimately found his strength in Christ, which helped him to turn his life around. His story proves that young people should never give up when it comes to overcoming adverse circumstances that they face. Teens can learn to overcome even the strongest demons through the powerful message presented in this film.

If you know a troubled teen who needs help. Give us a call at Windgate Wilderness. We can help. Call (800) 560-1599.