It Counts (2020)
A short film by young filmmakers exploring how one student's vote can decide a high school presidential election.
It Counts - Movie Information
- Release Year: 2020
- Directed by: Jillian Shea Spaeder
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Family
- Age Rating (US): PG-13
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- Release Date (Theatrical): October 21, 2020 (United States - PG-13)
- Production Countries: United States of America
It Counts - Plot
Two students compete in a high school presidential election, and we see how one student's vote can change everything. This short film promotes the importance of voting and educate young viewers on how to vote. This film is brought to you by young filmmakers who directed, produced, and wrote the project.
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It Counts - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Jillian Shea Spaeder
Main Cast
- Aliyah Moulden
- Luke Mullen
- Jillian Shea Spaeder
- Lilia Buckingham
- Julianna LeBlanc
- Emily Skinner
- Brandon Severs
- Emily Faucret
- Kai Kennedy
- Abigail Haley
Writers
- Lilia Buckingham
Producers
- Lilia Buckingham
It Counts - FAQs
What is It Counts about?
It Counts follows two high school students facing off in a presidential election, showing how a single vote can tip the balance. The short film is a civics lesson wrapped in a relatable teen story, created entirely by young filmmakers who wrote, directed, and produced it themselves.
Is It Counts based on a true story?
It Counts isn't based on a specific true story, but it draws from the very real importance of civic participation. The film was crafted to educate young viewers on how voting works and why every ballot matters, making it feel grounded in everyday democratic experience.
Who directed It Counts?
It Counts was directed by Jillian Shea Spaeder, who also appears in the film as Olivia. What makes this project especially impressive is that the entire production — directing, writing, and producing — was handled by young filmmakers, with Lilia Buckingham serving as both writer and producer.
Who are the main actors in It Counts?
The cast is packed with familiar young talent. Aliyah Moulden leads as Julia, alongside Luke Mullen as Evan, Jillian Shea Spaeder as Olivia, Lilia Buckingham as Lauren, Julianna LeBlanc as Tru, and Emily Skinner as Stella — a strong ensemble of recognizable faces from the teen entertainment world.
What is the age rating for It Counts?
It Counts is rated PG-13, making it a great fit for teens and older viewers. Given its focus on civic education and high school life, it's especially well-suited for middle and high school audiences looking for an engaging, socially conscious short film.
When was It Counts released?
It Counts came out on October 21, 2020, in the United States — a timely release just weeks before the U.S. presidential election that year. The timing was clearly intentional, designed to inspire young viewers to think about the power of their voice and their vote.
What are some movies similar to It Counts?
If you enjoyed It Counts, you might also like Thunderstruck (2012), What a Girl Wants (2003), The Clique (2008), or Love Don't Co$t a Thing (2003). These are all family-friendly films centered on young characters navigating social dynamics, competition, and self-discovery in relatable settings.
Is It Counts worth watching for young audiences?
Absolutely. It Counts is a short, punchy civics lesson disguised as a teen drama. It's engaging, socially relevant, and made by young creators who clearly understand their audience. For teens curious about elections and the impact of a single vote, it's a genuinely worthwhile watch.
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