Watch Facing Fear

Facing Fear is a powerful documentary that tells the story of Matthew Boger and Tim Zaal, two men whose lives were forever changed by an act of violence and hate. The film follows their journeys as they confront the demons of their past, and ultimately find forgiveness and redemption. The movie begins by introducing us to Matthew Boger, a gay man who was abandoned by his family as a teenager and forced to live on the streets. One night, he was attacked and beaten by a group of skinheads, including a young man named Tim Zaal. The attack left Boger with physical and emotional scars that would linger for years.

The film then shifts to Zaal, a former neo-Nazi who has since renounced his beliefs and become an advocate for tolerance and understanding. We learn about his upbringing, which was marked by abuse and neglect, and how he found a sense of belonging and purpose in the neo-Nazi movement. Zaal explains how he joined a group of skinheads, and how their ideology led them to attack people who they saw as different or inferior.

As the film progresses, we see Boger and Zaal's paths cross once again, decades after their initial encounter. Through a series of chance meetings and conversations, they begin to confront the trauma of their past and the role they both played in perpetuating hate and violence. The film delves into their personal struggles and the challenges they faced in coming to terms with their shared history.

One of the most powerful aspects of Facing Fear is its exploration of forgiveness and reconciliation. We see Boger and Zaal grapple with these concepts, struggling to reconcile their past actions with their present selves. The film does not shy away from the difficulty of this process, but ultimately shows how forgiveness can be a transformative and healing force. Through their journey, we see how Boger and Zaal are able to move beyond hatred and anger, and find a sense of peace and compassion.

The documentary also touches on the broader issue of hate crimes and bigotry, and the importance of education and awareness in combating these issues. We hear from experts and activists who work to combat hate and promote acceptance, and how these efforts can make a real difference in the lives of those who have been affected by violence and discrimination.

Overall, Facing Fear is a moving and thought-provoking documentary that explores the power of forgiveness and the ability of individuals to change and grow. With its honest and nuanced portrayal of the complexities of hate and redemption, it is a must-see for anyone who is interested in issues of social justice and human rights.