Real Talk about Fake Pills: The Film

About the Film

Real Talk About Fake Pills is a 20-minute educational film that raises awareness about the dangers of fentanyl and fake pills. Featuring insights from Song for Charlie (SFC) co-founder Ed Ternan, who shares his family’s story, along with real teens and medical experts, the film provides SFC’s fact-based education and reinforces a clear harm prevention message: “No Random Pills.” Currently being piloted by the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD), the film is designed for students ages 12 and up and can be shown in health classes, school assemblies, and peer-led presentations.

What You Get

• 20-minute film: Engaging and concise, designed to connect with teens and raise awareness about fentanyl risks.

• Expert discussion guides for peers and educators: Developed by professionals to support conversations and presentations.

What Your Audience Will Learn

• The realities of fentanyl and fake pills in the drug supply

• Practical advice to stay safe, including the "No Random Pills" mantra

• How to identify signs of an opioid overdose and respond with naloxone

Proven Impact: 83% of teens reported being less likely to misuse pills after learning about the risks of fake pills through SFC’s educational approach.

Thanks to generous support from the Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) in California and Trillium Community Health Plans in Oregon, access to these resources is covered for schools in those states. Schools outside of those states, and students interested in using the film for peer education projects are encouraged to reach out for more information on access.