Recently, the 22nd Annual Communicator Awards, judged by the Academy of Interactive & Visual Arts, announced it winners for 2016. The organization receives over 6,000 entries from organizations of all sizes, and this year’s awards were bigger and more prestigious than ever. The program recognizes companies and individuals for creating riveting productions in many different genres of film.
And the winner is…
Created for the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey (CCGNJ), “Break Even” is a dramatic short film that explores the challenges created by online gambling addiction from the perspective of two family members privately struggling with the disease. The film was among the big winners of the night, recognized for its realistic depiction of gambling problems that everyday people struggle with on a daily basis.
The movie takes viewers on an emotional ride while shining light on how gambling is a disease that impacts family dynamics and financial well-being. “Break Even” does an incredible job portraying how gambling addiction can lead to trouble for people of all ages and backgrounds. The CCGNJ hopes that individuals or families who need help with problem gambling in New Jersey (and beyond) can learn from the film and seek assistance with their recoveries.
Winning the award is great, but impacting change and progress is even better. If even one gambling addict is helped, the movie is a success. The CCGNJ hopes that the film influences people to take steps in the right direction by treating their gambling disorders.
The theme of the movie can be summed up by its title. Liz, a young woman at home on break from her college semester, begins online gambling. Eventually, she resorts to borrowing money from friends and stealing from her loved ones. She simply wants to “break even” and regain the money she lost while wagering online. When confronted by her parents, Liz seems resistant to the idea of changing. When things within her family get more serious, she realizes actions must be taken before it is too late. If you are reading this, it is NOT too late. There is hope.
The CCGNJ offers help with gambling addiction in NJ, PA, NY, DE, and the entire United States. We have a 24/7 confidential hotline (1-800-GAMBLER) as well as a 24/7 texting hotline. We also offer online chat sessions, a GA meeting finder, and numerous brochures and pamphlets on our 800GAMBLER.org website. To view this movie and other videos related to gambling, click HERE to be directed to our online video gallery.