MTV's 'DISconnected' Is 'Important,' Pete Wentz Says

LOS ANGELES — With the positive influence technology has had on our busy lives, there is a negative side, with those who abuse technology to hurt themselves and others. MTV has started to raise awareness and fight cyberbullying head-on with the creation of A Thin Lin and the new TV movie "DISconnected." "DISconnected" revolves around four technology-dependent characters who all endure different types of digital drama and suffer consequences because of it. The film held a screening Wednesday night, and MTV News was lucky enough to catch up with a few star supporters to find out how they deal with the topic of digital drama and cyberbullying in their own lives. "It's important to me, because having become an artist in the digital age, you get to see all the aspects of how being so connected works," Pete Wentz said. "It's such an amazing idea, but at the same time I think it allows people who are cowardly or anonymous, it gives them a lot of voice. Being a dad, knowing my son is going to grow up only knowing this [digital age], it's really important for him to see that people do stand up and not everybody is hiding behind a computer screen. I want him to know that." Actor Jordan Calloway, who plays one of the four main characters in the film, agreed with the importance of the film's serious subject matter. "To be a part of this movement was really important to me, because it drives home a strong message that kids in society need to hear," he said. "The fact that [director] Leslie [Libman] took it upon herself to get this message out to kids and all of us who use technology, it was really important for me, as a college student myself, to be a part of this, to be able to drive the point across. My character, Isaiah, is based on a true story, which is that of Abraham Biggs; he was a 19-year-old kid in Florida who actually did commit suicide." Be sure to tune in to "DISconnected" on Monday at 9 p.m. ET/PT on MTV, and check out the movie's Facebook page. Pete Wentz Photo: MTV News