Real Talk about Fake Pills: The Film
Real Talk About Fake Pills is a 20-minute educational film for teens, designed to raise awareness about the dangers of fentanyl and fake pills.
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.
“The opioid and fentanyl crisis has proliferated in every community across America," Superintendent Alberto M. Carvalho said. "Many of us know someone who has lost a life or is battling the deleterious effects of opioids. Los Angeles Unified has been at the forefront of educating students and families about addiction, the life-saving power of Narcan, and where to seek treatment. We are grateful to have partners like Song for Charlie as we provide resources and information to our school communities on navigating this epidemic."
“I’ve watched Song for Charlie’s Real Talk About Fake Pills video, and it is excellent,” said Jill. L, a parent with three children who attend Palisades Charter High School in LAUSD, who is a teacher outside of the district, and lost her brother to fentanyl. “I only wish my brother and his two childhood friends had known about the dangers of counterfeit pills. As a teacher and a parent, I hope every student has the chance to see this video.”
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.
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
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.
