This film explores the horrors of domestic violence, and is based on a true story. It gives us a raw and honest account of how one woman managed to survive her abusive husband, and how she got out to live on to tell her horrifying tale to the world, in the hopes it will help someone out there to take a stand against abuse towards women and children. Not only that, but we also see the mistakes made by the police, who need to be trained on how to handle domestic violence properly.
Nicole (played by Kaiti Wallen) and Warren (played by Mari G.) met in college and not long after she begins to see his possessive nature, and his angry temperament. The red flags are there, and are being ignored, and is usually the case when love is new. You don't want to see the bad side of the person you've just fallen in love with. Then we see the other side of Warren, when he love bombs her, which is also very common in situations like this. His insecurities are really the problem here, making him an unpredictable person to be around. His behaviour forces his wife and children to live in survival mode, always walking on eggshells. He does things in front of his family that are deplorable! The scene with the bird nearly made me sick. While they are separating, he breaks into the house and forces Nicole to have sex with him, without her consent. This shows us he is a diabolical monster. Why did she stay with him? Because he threatened to end her life if she left him. This too is very common when the victim tries to separate from the abuser. If it isn't an amicable breakup, it could turn dangerous, very fast.
Nicole is a hero in this scenario because she faced her adversary in court. At the expense of her emotions and at the sacrifice of her privacy, she has to re-live it in a brutal battle, where we witness her being revictimized by the defence team. The police aren't any better when they investigate the case. Warren's friend Bobby (played by Harley Wallen) is the cop that turns up to the house after Warren sexually assaults Nicole, he takes Warren's side, and I hope to God he lost his job after this. Unless there is solid evidence, then it is usually and casually dropped down the line of priorities. You can see the old adage coming through; that what happens behind closed doors, should stay behind closed doors. Which is not correct or healthy thinking. You would also think that after spending some time in a jail cell should teach the average person a lesson, and he should be begging for forgiveness. Sadly, that is not the case, and barely ever is that simple. It can take a lifetime to change old patterns, or intergenerational violence, because it is ingrained into one's psyche, making it a challenge to take the necessary steps towards changing the behaviour to obtain a better and more fulfilling life. Warren does not appear to be very remorseful, so I understand why Nicole had a final decision to make; she can stay as herself, or change her whole identity to escape the hold he has over her. What makes it worse is that from his jail cell he still manages to order a contracted hit on Nicole and the children.
This film shows us what victims of domestic violence go through, every single day. Waking up and wondering if this day will be the day he kills you or the kids. Never knowing whether talking to the innocuous neighbour or the mailman, would set the abuser off. To have to contend with court and everything associated with that, is a huge and scary challenge. Having to tell your story over and over again, for statements and to show in court, can feel like a never-ending cycle. Having to protect your children from their father who has become a monster in their eyes. The feeling of being stalked, walking around waiting for him to show up, which he does. Not being able to live a normal life, because there is a man out there who is trying to ruin your life and everything you have built together is destroyed. This is when you need support, and I'm glad Nicole found a friend in Katrina (played by Blanca Blanco) who teaches Nicole self-defence. Nicole's mother Susan (played by Debra Lamb) was also pulled in as a support person. But, how long will he get in jail? I was very pleased with how it all turned out at the end.
Overall, this is a very poignant and compelling film with a lot of messages layered in the storyline. A bit of back and forth with the timeline occurs and can be a little confusing at times, but the overall effect is strong regardless. It is there to show flashbacks and memories of how much the abuse has escalated over the years. For a true crime film, I think Nicole's story will relate to a lot of people. Due to this being based on true events, it will definitely provoke some sort of response from the viewer. The cast and the acting are great, considering what their roles are. I commend the filmmaker for bringing this social issue to the world, from his vision. I was on the edge of my seat a few times. The suspense and tension are palpable. I recommend this one to watch and is another example of indie filmmaking at its best. You will not be disappointed!
Reviewed by Del Gibson.
