An exclusive preview of the movie “Listen” — a film addressing teen issues — is taking place at Manteca High where much of it was filmed.

The screening is set for Saturday, Aug. 29, at 6:30 p.m. the school gym. Tickets are $5 cash at the door or in advance with credit/debit card by texting the word LISTEN to 41444. It is appropriate for ages 13 and up. Cell phones and cameras will be checked-in at the door

This is an opportunity to get a first look at the movie before it’s released in mainstream theaters. The director, producer and some of the actors will be present for a Q&A after the screening.

Critically acclaimed Teen Truth co-creator Erahm Christopher’s feature film “Listen” focuses on the powerful impact one moment can have on another person and more importantly what happens when they are missed. The fiction film follows a group of conflicted youths and adults struggling for personal connections who are united by self-destruction, tragedy and redemption. Poignant, heartbreaking and thought provoking, it’s inspired by real youth all over the world dying to be heard.

“I’ve spent the last eight years of my life working to give youth an authentic voice and now I hope others will ‘Listen’,” Christopher said. “We need to recognize that age, social, economic, ethnic differences do not matter; if we take a moment to listen we will realize we all feel this way.”

Featuring a diverse ensemble cast, Listen unearths relevant issues and presents how they are destroying youth today. Mental illness, depression, drug abuse, cutting, cyber bullying, suicide and gang violence are worldwide epidemics that are just symptoms of the critical need for connection. Too often summed up with the common expression, “it’s just a phase.” Listen proves that these issues are not a phase. They are serious cries to wake us up to the growing mental health and communication problems that are sweeping our nation.

 “Our goal for this film is to spark true self-reflection and conversation; to be mindful and alert of what others are going through and reach out with genuine concern. We can’t be on autopilot anymore. We have to re-shift our focus and start learning to listen or else we will continue to suffer through preventable tragedies.”

The Website/Trailer is at www.listenthemovie.com. Information is also on Facebook at www.facebook.com/listenthemovie.