Tough Love

Tough Love is a powerful and thought-provoking film that follows the story of Becka, a bright and independent 15-year-old girl whose world slowly closes in around her when she falls for Danny—a charismatic but controlling boyfriend. What starts as a seemingly perfect romance soon turns into something much darker, as Danny isolates Becka from her friends, dictates her every move, and manipulates her emotions through coercive control.

As Becka struggles to recognize the warning signs, she finds herself trapped in a cycle of fear, guilt, and self-doubt. With her confidence eroded and her sense of self slipping away, she must find the courage to break free. But can she escape before Danny’s grip tightens further?

Tough Love sheds light on the hidden dangers of emotional and psychological abuse, sparking vital conversations about healthy relationships, personal boundaries, and the strength it takes to reclaim one’s independence. Designed for classroom viewing, the film is accompanied by a resource pack to help students and teachers explore the themes of coercive control, emotional manipulation, and self-worth in a safe and supportive way.

Check out the Trailer:

One of the UK's leading providers

This course has been devised by Narrative Alchemy, a UK-based organisation dedicated to using film, storytelling, and education to tackle complex social issues affecting young people.

Through impactful films, applied theatre, workshops, and digital learning resources, Narrative Alchemy create engaging, research-backed content that helps schools, educators, and communities address critical topics such as County Lines, Child Sexual Exploitation, Domestic Abuse & Coercive Control, and Knife Crime. Beyond working with schools, colleges, and universities, they collaborate with the NHS, MoD, police forces, and social services, providing effective intervention tools to safeguard young people. Their work extends across the UK and internationally, partnering with educators, safeguarding professionals, and policymakers to develop solutions that spark conversations, build resilience, and drive real change - ensuring young people are equipped with the knowledge and confidence to make safe, informed choices.

The course covers:

  • WHAT?

  • HOW?

  • WHO? Who to turn to for help, support, or advice.

About the Course

FAQ

  • How much does the course cost?

  • How long will I have access to the course?

  • What age range is the material suitable for?

    The film and resource pack are suitable for all ages in KS3 and KS4.