Wake Up

There is no shortage of human trafficking movies out there. They all center around underaged girls being exploited and trafficked by a group of men referred to as "coyotes". This film, like the others, has plenty of that. What makes this film stand out is in its ability to justify the antagonists' motivations. No antagonist ever considers themselves a villain. But it's the villains-one in particular's motivations that are (no spoilers) revealed to be the most tragic and compelling. This is a human-trafficking frontrunner worthy of the likes of heavily-praised "Trafficked" and the decent (although corporately maligned) "The Sound of Freedom". David Gridley offers a standout performance. O'Shay Neal is terrifying. Janet Craig's psycho-sexual thriller pulls no punches in this unflinching expose on merciless sexual servitude. With twists galore, it's that final uppercut to the gut that stays with you long after the credits roil.

Wake Up is a movie that everyone should see. Sex trafficking is something that everyone should be made aware of. It's happening in more places than we realize.

This movie kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. Wake Up really puts this issue into an everyday perspective.

This movie is so well written that it flows perfectly. I really liked the cinematography, it really adds to the story.

The actors in this also do an incredible job making this story so believable. You really feel the emotions of the story through the eyes of the actors.

I can't stress enough how much everyone needs to see this movie.

Wake Up (2022) is an uncompromising dive into the grim realities of sex trafficking in the USA. Its interwoven storylines reveal a chilling mosaic of lives shattered by exploitation, offering an unrelenting look at a world where innocence is bartered and humanity feels like a luxury.

The performances are gut-wrenchingly raw, with each actor delivering stripped-down, intensely real portrayals. Director, Janet Craig, keeps a steady hand on the wheel, steering the film through harrowing territory without resorting to cheap sensationalism. The result is gripping, emotionally charged storytelling that keeps you riveted even as it pulls you deeper into its dark, unyielding world.

However, the film's relentless bleakness leaves little room for reprieve, a creative choice that may drain some viewers. While it doesn't always strike a perfect balance, its impact is undeniable. Wake Up is a harrowing, hard-hitting drama that shakes its audience to their core-and ensures they'll never forget its message.

"Wake Up" is a must see film! Janet Craig kept it real, and yet, it is not even close to the reality we want to turn a blind eye to everyday. After seeing it the first time, it took several days to process. Human trafficking is real people, and it is right under our noses all around. There is no greater form of slavery today. The more we spread the word and educate people, the more we can fight the battle against trafficking. "Wake Up" is a powerful tool in helping to spread that word. The acting and quality are excellent. Tell everyone you know and go see it when it hits theaters! Be ready to "Wake Up"!

From the dramatic opening chords, "Wake Up" plunges us into a world where four children are thrust into the foster care system, setting the stage for a story that leaps ten years forward into an environment rife with sexual oppression. This film doesn't pull any punches-it's tough, unflinching, and deeply unsettling. Themes of exploitation and slavery are at the forefront, painting a harrowing picture of a society grappling with its darkest elements.

At the heart of "Wake Up" is a detective who, along with the children's new parents, becomes ensnared in a dangerous game of criminality and moral ambiguity. The film masterfully explores the complexity of guilt and complicity, as institutions struggle to address these horrific wrongs.

"Wake Up" is a thought-provoking exploration into the grim realities of sexual exploitation. It's a challenging watch, but one that forces its audience to confront uncomfortable truths about a world many would prefer to ignore.