What We Hide

I've seen this film three times now and the third was an even more intense experience than the first two. McKenna Grace and Jojo Regina gave such realistic performances as the sisters who are suffering because of their mother's overdose (& their terrified of the drug dealer's pure evil performance). The film quality and character chemistry was so good! And the scenes filmed in Plant City, Brandon, and Pinellas County, Florida seemed perfectly placed. Kudos to the whole cast and to Hungry Bull Productions for another great film.

Some movies grab your attention with action or big twists, but What We Hide works in a completely different way. It's a quiet, emotional story that slowly gets under your skin and stays with you long after it's over.

The film follows two sisters, Spider and Jessie, who are suddenly left on their own after their mother dies. Instead of telling anyone, they decide to hide her death, terrified that the foster system will split them apart. It's a heartbreaking setup, but the film never feels cheap or over-the-top. Instead, it's about survival, loyalty, and the fierce bond between two kids who only have each other.

The reason this story hits so hard is because of the performances. McKenna Grace is outstanding as Spider. She plays the older sister with a mix of toughness and deep vulnerability, showing the pain of a child forced to act like an adult. Jojo Regina, as Jessie, is just as powerful in a softer way. She brings innocence, hope, and sweetness that make you root for her instantly. Together, they're magnetic-you believe every look, every argument, and every small moment of love between them.

The rest of the cast adds texture without taking away from the sisters. Jesse Williams plays a sheriff who sees more than he lets on, Forrest Goodluck adds some warmth as a rare friend, and Dacre Montgomery is genuinely intimidating as a local threat. They all help create the small-town world that the sisters are struggling to survive in.

Visually, the movie keeps things simple. The muted colors and quiet settings match the story's tone. It doesn't try to be flashy, and that works-it feels grounded and real, almost like you're peeking into someone's life.

What really makes What We Hide special is that, despite its heavy subject, it's ultimately about love. It's about two sisters holding on to each other, no matter how bad things get. Yes, it's emotional and at times tough to watch, but it's also moving and deeply human.

What We Hide is a small, powerful film that proves sometimes the quietest stories can leave the loudest impact.

Outstanding performances by the cast! This heart warming film is a must see! The cinematography is beautiful and keeps you engaged the whole time. If you haven't seen this movie yet you are majorly missing out. I want to say more but don't want to give anything away so that you can experience it all yourself!

What We Hide takes a unique view of the opioid crisis by looking at it through the eyes of children. A gripping tale of tragedy, sisterhood, and, ultimately, resilience. The acting and story is incredible and engrosses you in the world of two young sisters who have to fight to stay together. The film both breaks your heart and leaves you with a sense of hope.

As someone who has suffered from someone's drug addiction and grief this hit close to home. This story was told so raw and was portrayed as beautifully as it could have been. Mckenna is absolutes incredible at her craft she truly is gifted. Although I will say the story fell flat a few times throughout the film. If it were not for the amazing cast that just blew the film out of the water im not sure that it would have transmitted the same emotion. The ending especially. Although for an indie film this is incredible & thankful for these types of stories to still be told and pushed into the light.. these are many children's real life unfortunately. :(