About this Short Film
Staying Safe-Playing Safe, by Rainbow Rights and Advocacy (Australia, 2022), examines adult dating and online interactions through a lens of safety, perception and consent. The film draws attention to risks such as scams and group dynamics while inviting viewers to consider how viewpoint shapes experience. Shown in the Focus on Ability International Short Film Festival, it contributes to our program by highlighting issues that matter to people with disability and their communities. Expect a thoughtful, accessible piece that opens conversation about online connections, personal safety and how we interpret others' behaviour. Useful for audiences interested in advocacy, digital safety and inclusive storytelling.
Film Details
Film Transcript
"I'm pretty good."
"What's going on?"
"I met somebody online. Do you want to check him out?"
"Sure, come in. What dating site did you use? Do you have to pay for it?"
"No, it's free."
"Be careful. Some apps and sites are free at first but then they make you pay later."
"Yeah, this one's always free. Here he is."
"Hmm — Bruce Spruce Moose. Do you think that's his real name?"
"Ah jeez, I hope not."
"So, have you made contact with Bruce?"
"Yeah, we've sent a few messages. He sent me this link the other day."
"Should I click on it?"
"No. Never click on a link sent by a stranger."
"Have you talked to this guy?"
"Yeah, I gave him my phone number, but gee, the conversation was strange."
"What was strange about it?"
"Well, for some reason he asked for my address and my bank account details."
"Oh, that sounds dodgy to me."
"What do you mean?"
"Well, if somebody has your address and bank details, they can find ways to take your money."
"Sounds like a scam. He's probably catfishing you."
"What's catfishing?"
"Catfishing is when somebody you meet online is lying about their name, their age and even what they look like. This profile picture is probably fake."
"So Bruce isn't real."
"Sorry, dude."
"Oh, that sucks."
"Well, what about this guy I matched with? He looks nice."
"How old is he?"
"Uh, 26."
"Good. Make sure anybody you date is over 18."
"He wants to meet."
"Oh — should I invite him around to my house?"
"No. You should meet in a public place; it's safer that way. You shouldn't give people your address until you know you can trust them. The same goes for your phone number."
"Hmm, a public place. Eh, what if I take him to McDougall's or Famish John's for a first date?"
"That's not very romantic."
"Well, we could share a six pack of nuggets; that'd be pretty romantic."
"Maybe. Well, whatever you decide, play it safe. Make sure you tell somebody you trust where the date's going to be and what time you're going to be there."
"Yeah, good idea."
"So, what exactly are you looking for in a man?"
"Oh, I just want a genuine guy with a big heart and a warm smile and, uh, massive biceps."
"Fingers crossed Craig is your man."
"Yeah, I've got a good feeling about this one."
Filmmaker
Rainbow Rights and Advocacy is the filmmaker behind this entry. See every Focus on Ability entry from Rainbow Rights and Advocacy.
This video highlights important messages created by talented people from our rainbow disabilities community I am very proud of this production and hope we can get many people to share and like this throughout Australia Ricki Spencer
Fantastic