North Little Rock Teen Finds Comfort in Friendship After Classmate's Death

Minnie and Callie's close bond is explored in new indie film 'Mouse'

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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A shy, unpopular teenager named Minnie forms an unlikely friendship with the most popular girl in her class, Callie, in the new indie film "Mouse." When Callie suddenly passes away, Minnie struggles to cope with the loss and find her place in the grieving community, including Callie's devastated mother.

Why it matters

The film explores the complex emotions and social dynamics that arise when a young person experiences the death of a close friend, a common but often overlooked experience for many teenagers. It highlights how meaningful friendships can develop between those who may not fit in with the social norms of high school.

The details

In "Mouse," Minnie, a shy and awkward North Little Rock High School student, had a close bond with the more popular Callie. After Callie's unexpected death, Minnie finds herself trying to navigate the grief of her classmates and Callie's mother, while also processing her own feelings of loss and isolation.

  • The film "Mouse" premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in January 2026.

The players

Minnie

The film's protagonist, a shy and unpopular teenager at North Little Rock High School.

Callie

Minnie's popular and charismatic best friend, who unexpectedly passes away.

Callie's Mother

Callie's devastated mother, who Minnie tries to connect with after her daughter's death.

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What they’re saying

“Minnie is practically invisible to most of the students at North Little Rock High School, which is what makes her friendship with Callie — the most popular girl in her class — so special.”

— Peter Debruge, Film Critic (IMDb)

The takeaway

"Mouse" sensitively explores the profound impact the loss of a close friend can have on a teenager, and how meaningful connections can form between those who may not fit the mold of high school social hierarchies.