A new documentary titled 'Thoughts and Prayers' on HBO Max investigates the impact of gun violence on American schools, particularly how it has normalized lockdown drills as a routine part of childhood. This shift has led to the emergence of a substantial industry dedicated to active shooter preparedness, now valued at approximately $3 billion.

The film features various products and training programs aimed at preventing or mitigating the effects of mass shootings in schools. Filmmakers Zackary Canepari and Jessica Dimmock highlight the commercialization of safety measures, noting that many vendors present their offerings at events like the National School Safety Conference, where schools seek solutions to address the threat of gun violence.

Canepari points out that while the intention behind these products is to enhance safety, the reality is that they often serve to slow down potential mass shootings rather than prevent them entirely. Dimmock expresses concern over the calm acceptance of these products, questioning their effectiveness in real-life scenarios involving high-powered firearms.

The documentary reveals that 95 percent of American schools conduct lockdown drills, a response to the alarming statistic of 236 school shootings in the past seven years, resulting in casualties. The filmmakers, both parents themselves, were motivated to explore this topic after contemplating the implications of such drills on their own child’s safety.

Canepari describes the experience of children participating in these drills as both unsettling and routine. Many students, especially older ones, have become desensitized to the drills, which have been a part of their education for years. The psychological toll of this constant preparation for potential violence is a significant concern, as it shapes the children's perceptions of safety in their learning environments.

Interviews with students reveal a pervasive anxiety about school shootings, with many expressing a desire for change in gun laws and a hope for a future free from such violence. Teachers also report feeling overwhelmed by the demands placed on them to ensure student safety in an environment fraught with threats.

The film ultimately critiques the reliance on preparedness drills and products as a substitute for comprehensive gun reform, suggesting that the existence of this industry reflects a broader societal failure to address the root causes of gun violence in America. 'Thoughts and Prayers' is currently available for streaming on HBO Max.