‘Final Recovery’: A Twisted Descent Into Rehab Gone Wrong

Final Recovery is now available for streaming. Photo: IMDb

🎬 Final Recovery – Movie Review

📖 Synopsis

When Rodney winds up in the Sage Treatment Facility and in the care of the twisted Nanny Lou, his drive to do better for his family and new friends leads him into more trouble. As he rebels against his ornery captor, he uncovers a dark conspiracy. With fellow patients mysteriously vanishing, Rodney takes on a new mission: exposing the prison his addiction has built around him.

Genre: Horror, Thriller
Run Time: 1 hr. 36 mins

Where to Watch:
📺 Stream for free on Tubi
🎥 Rent or purchase on Fandango at Home and Amazon Prime Video

🎬 Creative Team

Writers: Jerry Lee Davis & Nick Theurer
Director: Harley Wallen

👥 Cast

  • Charlene Tilton – Nanny Lou
  • Jasper Cole – Rodney
  • Richard Tyson – Dr. Sam Potter
  • Michael Emery – Levi
  • Kaiti Wallen – Cindy Porter

📝 Movie Review: Final Recovery

Final Recovery is a tense psychological thriller that explores the fragile boundaries between rehabilitation and manipulation. The film centers around Rodney (Jasper Cole), a troubled man desperate to rebuild his life for the sake of his family. His journey takes a dark turn when he lands in the eerie Sage Treatment Facility, where healing comes with a sinister cost.

Nanny Lou, played with chilling precision by Charlene Tilton, is not your typical caregiver. Her twisted methods of control and psychological torment, fueled by childhood trauma, create a suffocating atmosphere that quickly consumes Rodney. The film builds suspense as Rodney’s initial compliance gives way to rebellion, sparked by his growing connection to fellow patients and his deep longing to return to his family.

The cinematography enhances the claustrophobic feel of the facility, while the score amplifies the underlying dread. Though the pacing slows midway, strong character arcs and an emotional payoff keep viewers engaged. Rodney’s transformation from passive patient to defiant fighter is compelling, though a few plot twists feel rushed.

Ultimately, Final Recovery is a disturbing yet gripping tale of resilience. It asks: Can true recovery be found in a place designed more to break than to heal — or must some battles be fought entirely from within?

Rating: 3.5 out of 5.

*The author was contacted for an honest review of this movie. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

World Premiere Spotlight: Lemonade Blessing at Tribeca 2025

Jake Ryan in Chris Merola’s Lemonade Blessing. Photo: Submarine Entertainment, used with permission.

Spotlight on Tribeca Film Festival 2025

The Tribeca Film Festival, founded in 2002 by Robert De Niro, Jane Rosenthal, and Craig Hatkoff, celebrates storytelling in all its forms. Held annually in New York City, the festival showcases a diverse range of films—from independent features and documentaries to immersive experiences and short films.

Originally created to help revitalize Lower Manhattan after 9/11, Tribeca has since grown into a major cultural event. In addition to film screenings, the festival features industry panels, interactive media, and cutting-edge virtual reality. It offers a platform for both emerging voices and established filmmakers, fostering creativity, conversation, and community across the global film landscape.

📅 This year’s festival runs from June 4 through June 15, 2025.

World Premiere: Lemonade Blessing

One of the standout selections in the US Narrative Competition is the world premiere of Lemonade Blessing, a feature film directed by Chris Merola, a native New Yorker and recent graduate of USC’s School of Cinematic Arts. This marks Merola’s feature directorial debut. (EG-PR, 2025)

🎬 About the Film

Title: Lemonade Blessing
Running Time: 100 minutes
Language: English
Country: USA
Genre: Drama

🎭 Cast

Jake Ryan, Jeanine Serralles, Skye Alyssa Friedman, Miles J. Harvey, Michael Oloyede, Todd Gearhart, Keith William Richards

🎥 Producers

Chris Merola, Raza Rizvi, Aruba Sülzana, Samuel Ashurov

📖 Synopsis

Freshly tossed into a private Catholic high school by his devout mother, John (Jake Ryan) falls head over heels for a devious classmate who’s ready to push his faith—and morals—to the brink. What unfolds is a series of increasingly uncomfortable acts, all in the name of love.

🎟 Public Screening Schedule

DateTimeVenueLocation
Thursday, June 57:15 p.m.SVA2 – BeatriceSVA Theater, 333 West 23rd Street
Friday, June 69:00 p.m.VEC-04Village East Cinemas, 181-189 2nd Avenue
Saturday, June 146:00 p.m.VEC-04Village East Cinemas, 181-189 2nd Avenue
Sunday, June 1511:15 a.m.VEC-02Village East Cinemas, 181-189 2nd Avenue

🔗 Buy Tickets Here

Chris Merola is a writer and filmmaker from Long Island, New York. Lemonade Blessing is his first feature film.

Pride, Poolside, and Panoramic Views: Celebrate Pride Month at Thompson San Antonio

Celebrate Pride in style at Thompson San Antonio-Riverwalk. Photo: Thompson San Antonio-Riverwalk, used with permission.

Celebrate Pride Month in Style at Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk 🌈

This Pride Month, there’s no need to travel far to enjoy a vibrant and luxurious escape — Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk offers the ultimate staycation right in the heart of the city. (Thompson San Antonio-Riverwalk, 2025)

Perfectly located along the iconic San Antonio River Walk and just steps away from the largest Pride parade in South Texas (happening June 28), the hotel puts you right at the center of the action.

🌟 Pride Package Perks

Available throughout June, Thompson’s Pride Package includes a complimentary Pride-themed cocktail for guests who book using promo code PRIDE — the perfect festive touch to kick off your celebration.

☀️ Stay, Lounge, Celebrate

Whether you’re:

  • Lounging poolside on the open-air Cenote Pool Deck with craft cocktails and luxury cabanas,
  • Or soaking in panoramic views from the chic rooftop lounge, The Moon’s Daughters,

Thompson San Antonio delivers the perfect blend of bold energy and elevated comfort. Add in stylish accommodations and live entertainment throughout the month, and this hotel becomes more than just a place to stay — it’s a full-fledged Pride Month destination.

🎉 Pride Kick-Off Celebration at The Moon’s Daughters

Start the month with a bang at the Pride Kick-Off Celebration, hosted at the hotel’s stunning rooftop venue:

📍 Location: The Moon’s Daughters Rooftop
🗓️ Date: Saturday, May 31
🕗 Time: 9:30 p.m.

Taking place after the Pride River Parade, this high-energy event will feature:

  • Signature craft cocktails
  • Sweeping skyline views
  • A vibrant drag and performance showcase spotlighting standout local LGBTQ+ talent

It’s the ultimate way to toast the season of love, pride, and community — all without leaving San Antonio.

Celebrate local. Celebrate loud. Celebrate Pride — Thompson-style. 🏳️‍🌈

Pride-themed cocktail. Photo: Thompson San Antonio-Riverwalk, used with permission.

Detective Zorn Faces His Darkest Case Yet in Otho Eskin’s ‘Black Sun Rising’

‘Black Sun Rising’ is the thrilling new Marko Zorn novel by Otho Eskin. Photo: Barnes & Noble

Book Review: Black Sun Rising by Otho Eskin

Otho Eskin’s “Black Sun Rising” is a riveting, high-stakes thriller that masterfully blends political intrigue, historical resonance, and relentless action. In this fourth installment of the Marko Zorn series, readers are pulled into a suspenseful, chillingly timely narrative that stands strong as a standalone read.

The action begins with a jolt: “The bomb explodes at 8:42 a.m.” A device detonates at Friendship House—a sanctuary for the poor and vulnerable—signaling the start of a far more dangerous plot. Detective Marko Zorn, reeling from the murder of his partner, soon uncovers a violent neo-Nazi conspiracy rooted in WWII and designed to destabilize the nation. Global chatter hints at an assassination attempt on the new president during the upcoming inauguration, and Zorn must infiltrate the movement to stop an attack that could cripple the country.

Told in the first person through Zorn’s sharp, often wry perspective, the novel features a fast pace, vivid language, and even moments of humor:

“One must always answer a summons from Mount Olympus. Even before morning coffee. Otherwise, be prepared to be zapped by a thunderbolt.”

Zorn is a morally complex, emotionally grounded lead, matched by unforgettable villains—particularly the ominous “Bride of the Apocalypse,” whose mythic menace lingers long after the final page. Eskin’s experience in the U.S. Foreign Service brings striking authenticity to the geopolitical stakes, while fans of WWII history will appreciate the rich historical context woven into the plot.

Overall, “Black Sun Rising” is a smart, fast-paced, and thought-provoking thriller that confronts modern threats head-on—with style, heart, and deadly precision. With its tight narrative, compelling themes of extremism, power, and corruption, and razor-sharp suspense, it’s a standout thriller and recommended for fans of David Baldacci, Lee Child, and Daniel Silva.

“In the chaos and darkness, I could slip away, unnoticed. I could hide in this labyrinth of caves and secret passages for days, maybe weeks. But it would mean giving up Zyklon. Not to mention, dying of starvation.”

*The author was contacted for an honest review of this book and received an ARC. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Related post: Marko Zorn Returns: Otho Eskin’s New Thriller Delivers High-Stakes Suspense

Grayson Jenkins Finds His Voice on ‘Hard Heart to Hold’ and Forthcoming Album Country Parables

Grayson Jenkins leans into the rock side of country with new song and video. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Grayson Jenkins Unveils New Single “Hard Heart to Hold” Ahead of Forthcoming Album Country Parables

Kentucky-born country artist and songwriter Grayson Jenkins has released his new single “Hard Heart to Hold,” an anthemic country-rock track from his upcoming album Country Parables, set to release everywhere on July 25. (Covered Bridge Creative Co-op, 2025)

The single is paired with a live performance music video, filmed at Jenkins’ 2025 headlining show at The Burl in Lexington, KY—the very venue that inspired the song’s creation.

A Rising Voice in the Appalachian Country Scene

“Hard Heart to Hold” follows a string of successful releases, including:

  • “Nobody’s Stopping You Anyhow” (feat. Brit Taylor), featured on Spotify’s All New Country playlist
  • “Taxes & Time”
  • “Good Times Go” (feat. Pony Bradshaw), highlighted by The Bluegrass Situation and Whiskey Riff

Fans can watch the video, stream the new single, and pre-order vinyl and merch online.

A “Hillbilly Springsteen” Sound

Jenkins’ bandmates jokingly describe “Hard Heart to Hold” as sounding like a “hillbilly Springsteen”—a track driven by pulsing drums and heavy guitars, elevating Jenkins’ vocals and vivid storytelling.

Jenkins views the song as a reflection of both his influences and his ongoing sonic evolution.

Telling Stories from the Heart of Kentucky

Lyrically, the track tells the story of a young woman navigating early adulthood and finding comfort in the Lexington music scene—a nod to the thriving musical culture of Kentucky and the greater Appalachian region.

Nearly a Decade on the Road

Grayson Jenkins is no newcomer. With nearly ten years in the music industry, his career has weathered:

  • The ups and downs of indie artistry
  • A global pandemic
  • Over 250,000 miles touring across the US, Canada, and Europe

Raised on a small farm in Muhlenberg County, KY—yes, that Muhlenberg County from John Prine’s “Paradise”—Jenkins carries with him a strong work ethic and resourcefulness that continues to shape his music and career.

Country Parables: Jenkins’ Most Ambitious Work Yet

Now in his 30s, Jenkins returns with Country Parables—a ten-track LP that marks his most comprehensive and mature work to date. The album combines the lyrical depth fans have come to expect with a fully realized sonic palette that Jenkins has long been chasing.

Crafted by a Powerhouse Team

To bring this album to life, Jenkins teamed up with frequent collaborator and touring partner Pony Bradshaw to co-produce the record. The album was recorded at Fellowship Hall Sound in Little Rock, AR, with a team of acclaimed musicians, including:

  • Paddy Ryan (Parker Millsap, John Fullbright)
  • Jesse Aycock (JR Carroll, John Moreland)
  • Aaron Boehler (Wilderado)
  • Fats Kaplin (Jack White, John Prine)

Collaborations on the album include Brit Taylor, Madelyn Baier, and Pony Bradshaw, with two tracks co-written by Nashville veteran Pat McLaughlin (John Prine, Bahamas).

With Country Parables, Grayson Jenkins offers a heartfelt, roots-driven collection that further cements his place in the next wave of Americana storytellers.

Country Parables tracklist:

1.Old Trails
2.Hard Heart to Hold
3.Nobody’s Stopping You Anyhow (feat. Brit Taylor)
4.Grand Slam
5.Scarecrow
6.Taxes & Time
7.Good Times Go (feat. Pony Bradshaw)
8.From Now On
9.Calling Out Your Name (feat. Madelyn Baier)
10.Country Parables

“But beyond the smoky bars and days out on the farm, Jenkins embodies one of Country’s more abstract, yet most important qualities: its philosophical soul.”

— American Songwriter

“In case you aren’t familiar with Grayson Jenkins’ prior work, the Muhlenburg County, KY native aptly follows in the footsteps of John Prine and all of the other folk and country troubadours before him who forged their career on the strength of clever lyricism and truthfully authentic storytelling.”

— Whiskey Riff

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A Killer Returns: ‘First Cut’ by J.T. Bishop Slices Into the Psyche

‘First Cut’ is Book 1 in the Family or Foe Saga by J.T. Bishop. Photo: Barnes & Noble

Book Spotlight: First Cut: A Serial Killer Murder Mystery Thriller by J.T. Bishop

(The Family or Foe Saga with Detectives Daniels and Remalla – Book 1)

Synopsis

He stole everything from her. But when he lines up his pieces for a rematch, he’ll be surprised at how well she’s learned to play the game. (Barnes & Noble, 2025)

In a gripping tale of obsession and revenge, former detective Jill Jacobs must confront her darkest nightmare: the Makeup Artist, a twisted serial killer whose gruesome crimes and disturbing fixation on Jill nearly destroyed her.

Now, with the psychopath striking again, Jill’s uncanny telepathic bond with the killer becomes the only hope for Detectives Daniels and Remalla to end the carnage. But to catch him, Jill must re-enter the chilling mindset that once connected them—a connection he still craves.

As Jill grows closer to one of the detectives, the killer’s obsession reignites, and the danger escalates. Will she find the strength to stop the sadistic murderer who shattered her world—or will this deadly game claim more innocent lives, including her own?

“First Cut” is the thrilling opener of the Family or Foe Saga, blending psychological suspense with paranormal crime fiction. It’s an electrifying read that probes the darkest corners of justice and the human psyche.

Series Titles in the Family or Foe Saga

  • “Second Slice: A Murder Mystery Suspense Thriller“
  • “Third Blow: A Murder Mystery Paranormal Thriller“
  • “Fourth Strike: A Murder Mystery Paranormal Thriller“

Review

“First Cut” is a chilling and fast-paced thriller that immerses readers in a nightmare of obsession, trauma, and vengeance.

The story centers around Jill Jacobs, a former Seattle detective who reluctantly returns from indefinite leave to assist Detectives Aaron Remalla and Gordon Daniels in stopping the Makeup Artist before he kills again. Bishop wastes no time, opening with a disturbing crime scene:

“The body stared up with vacant eyes, the garish lipstick smeared across the lips, and the cheeks streaked with harsh red.”

Bishop excels at psychological tension. Jill is a layered, compelling protagonist—haunted but resilient—while the killer’s eerie presence and grisly calling card are nightmare fuel. As the investigation deepens, so does the emotional complexity. With language that is easy to follow, the action flows naturally through the pages. The story explores themes of fear, identity, justice, and trauma, and the bond Jill shares with the killer adds a chilling supernatural twist.

Bishop’s prose is crisp and evocative:

“Peering around the corner, he looked inside. It was quiet and the only things moving were the tiny dust particles in the air that caught the light.”

This is a dark, engrossing tale of survival and reckoning. Fans of gritty crime thrillers and psychological suspense will enjoy this book—and eagerly await Detective Daniels and Remalla’s, as well as Jill Jacobs’ next harrowing journey.

“At that moment, her protective wall disintegrated. Images assaulted her. Screams of rage and fear bubbled up, and she could see it in her mind’s eye. Vicky’s terror.”

About the Author: J.T. Bishop

J.T. Bishop is an award-winning author known for writing mystery thrillers with a supernatural twist. She loves weaving tangled relationships, unexpected plot turns, and heart-stopping love stories—sometimes with a dose of paranormal fun.

Her works include:

  • The Red-Line Trilogy
  • The Fletcher Family Saga
  • The Family or Foe Saga, starring the charismatic Detectives Daniels and Remalla
  • A crossover series featuring a gifted paranormal P.I. and his spunky sister

Her evil plan? To hook readers with suspense, thrills, and just the right touch of the unknown.

Have you read “First Cut“? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
📚🔪✨

The Art of Tequila: A Spirited Evening of Heritage and Flavor

Celebrate the spirit of summer with a tequila tasting at the Briscoe. Photo: Briscoe Western Art Museum, used with permission.

The Art of Tequila: History, Heritage & Tasting with Mar Azul

Raise a glass and celebrate the craftsmanship behind one of Mexico’s most iconic spirits! Join us for a spirited evening dedicated to the rich heritage of tequila with Mar Azul Tequila, a San Antonio-based, family-owned brand known for blending traditional techniques with modern innovation. (Briscoe Western Art Museum, 2025)

This 21+ exclusive event takes you on a flavorful journey through tequila’s origins, production, and evolution—all while enjoying a curated tasting experience and delicious small bites.

Event Details

📅 Date: Thursday, May 29
🕕 Time: 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
💵 Admission: $50 | $35 for museum members
🔞 Age Requirement: Guests must be 21 or older

What to Expect

Learn what makes tequila truly special—from the importance of the Blue Weber Agave to the five specific Mexican regions where authentic tequila can be produced (much like champagne or cognac). Explore the time-honored process that transforms agave into tequila, from field to bottle.

Enjoy a custom-crafted cocktail created just for this event, and get to know the story of Mar Azul Tequila, a brand that proudly uses:

  • 100% natural ingredients
  • No chemical additives or sweeteners
  • Premium agave sourced from Jalisco, Mexico

Whether you prefer Silver, Reposado, Añejo, or unique infusions like chocolate, almond, coconut, or pomegranate, Mar Azul promises a smooth, vibrant, and authentic tequila experience.

Venue Information

Briscoe Western Art Museum
📍 210 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Located off the River Walk across from La Villita, the Briscoe campus includes the beautiful McNutt Sculpture Garden, home to 35 sculptures that capture the spirit of the American West. The museum is housed in a stunningly restored historic building that once served as the San Antonio Public Library.

Accessibility & Admission

The Briscoe proudly participates in:

  • Museums For All
  • Blue Star Museums
  • Bank of America Museums on Us

🚗 Parking: Convenient parking available at the Riverbend Garage next to the museum, or at nearby downtown surface lots.

For museum hours, admission, and parking details, visit the Briscoe online.

Reserve Your Spot

Space is limited and registration is required. Don’t miss this flavorful evening of culture, conversation, and craftsmanship—secure your ticket today!

Mar Azul Tequila. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Marko Zorn Returns: Otho Eskin’s New Thriller Delivers High-Stakes Suspense

‘Black Sun Rising’ is the new Marko Zorn novel by Otho Eskin. Photo: Barnes & Noble

Book Spotlight: “Black Sun Rising” by Otho Eskin

A long-buried Nazi weapon resurfaces. America stands on the brink of destruction. One man must stop history’s darkest nightmare from happening again in “Black Sun Rising,” the electrifying thriller by former Foreign Service Officer Otho Eskin. (Meryl Moss Media Group, 2025)

Release date: June 10, 2025. It is available for pre-order.

The Story

When Washington, D.C. homicide detective Marko Zorn’s partner is murdered, his pursuit of justice leads him into the heart of Black Sun—a violent neo-Nazi movement born from the ashes of World War II’s most sinister forces.

Their chilling goal: to unleash a catastrophic attack that will plunge the nation into chaos.

To stop them, Zorn must:

  • Outwit a mysterious and deadly woman known only as the Bride of the Apocalypse
  • Navigate the treacherous ambitions of two of the world’s wealthiest—and most ruthless—men
  • Expose a conspiracy stretching from the highest levels of power in Washington to the darkest corners of the underworld

Can Marko Zorn save the country from annihilation?

“Black Sun Rising” is a pulse-pounding thriller in the tradition of Baldacci, Clancy, and Patterson, delivering nonstop suspense, razor-sharp political intrigue, and a chillingly timely tale of hatred, extremism, and one man willing to risk everything to stop it.

“A taut, fast-paced thriller with unforgettable characters and high stakes from the very first page.”

About the Series

“Black Sun Rising” is the fourth book in Otho Eskin’s acclaimed Marko Zorn series, which includes:

  • “The Reflecting Pool”
  • “Head Shot”
  • “Firetrap”

Each novel can be read as a gripping stand-alone or as part of the ongoing series.

About the Author: Otho Eskin

Otho Eskin launched his career as a thriller writer in 2020 with “The Reflecting Pool,” which was met with rave reviews and chosen as an Amazon Editors’ Pick for Best Mystery, Thriller, and Suspense. (Otho Eskin, 2025)

Before turning to fiction, Eskin served in the U.S. Army and as a diplomat in the U.S. Foreign Service. His postings took him to Syria, Yugoslavia, Iceland, and East Berlin (then part of the GDR), where he witnessed political corruption and international intrigue firsthand—experiences that now inform his high-stakes novels.

While stationed in East Berlin during the Cold War, Eskin was named in a Soviet-backed propaganda publication titled Who’s Who in the CIA—a false accusation meant to discredit and endanger American diplomats. Though not a spy, the disinformation campaign shaped his understanding of global deception and power plays—key themes in his writing today.

Eskin is also an accomplished playwright. His works—including Act of God, Murder as a Fine Art, Duet, Julie, Final Analysis, and Season in Hell—have been professionally staged in Washington, New York, and Europe.

Are you ready for a thriller that doesn’t let up?
Pick up “Black Sun Rising” and join Marko Zorn in a race against time to stop a nightmare’s rebirth.

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‘Finding Nicole’: A True Story of Survival, Strength, and Justice

‘Finding Nicole’ is available to rent or purchase. Photo: Fandango

“Finding Nicole: A True Story of Love, Loss, Betrayal, Fear, and Hope”

By Nicole Beverly

In her powerful memoir, Finding Nicole: A True Story of Love, Loss, Betrayal, Fear, and Hope, author and advocate Nicole Beverly shares an unflinching, deeply personal account of her journey from domestic violence victim to survivor—and ultimately, to warrior. (Amazon, 2025)

The Cycle of Abuse

Nicole met her ex-husband in college, and over the course of a decade, found herself trapped in a progressively abusive and violent relationship. Like so many victims, she stayed for a complex mix of reasons: love, financial dependency, her children, and fear. In 2009, she finally left—but the danger didn’t end there.

For more than two years after leaving, Nicole endured relentless stalking, threats, and harassment. Her powerful victim impact statement at his sentencing eventually led to her ex-husband’s conviction for stalking. Yet even behind bars, he continued to pose a lethal threat—attempting to hire inmates to kill Nicole and their children.

A System That Failed Her

Nicole’s story also sheds light on the failures of the criminal justice system. Due to errors by law enforcement, breakdowns in communication, and a hesitant prosecutor, her abuser was almost released despite these credible threats. In a desperate bid to protect her family, Nicole even considered identity change—only to discover how difficult it would be to start over without a past.

Fighting Back—and Winning

Instead of disappearing, Nicole chose to fight. She turned to social media to share her story and rallied support from family, friends, fellow survivors, and strangers across the globe. In just a few weeks, her plea for justice went viral.

Thanks to public pressure, the Attorney General of Michigan took on her case. After 13 months, multiple court hearings, and unwavering courage, Nicole’s abuser was found guilty of new charges and sentenced to a longer prison term—giving Nicole and her children some much-needed peace.

A Guide for Survivors

Nicole’s book doesn’t end with her story. In its final chapters, Finding Nicole serves as a guidebook for survivors of domestic violence, stalking, and toxic relationships. With practical advice and heartfelt encouragement, she offers tools to help others leave safely, reclaim hope, build resilience, and ultimately, find themselves again.

A story of fierce determination and the power of collective voices, “Finding Nicole” is a must-read. It’s not just a memoir—it’s a call to action for justice, awareness, and unwavering support for survivors everywhere. The film adaptation is available to rent or purchase on YouTube, Google Play Movie, Fandango at Home, Apple TV, and Amazon Prime Video.

Movie Review: Finding Nicole — A Powerful Story of Survival and Strength

If you’re looking for a film that will leave a lasting impression and stir your soul, Finding Nicole is a must-watch. Based on the true story of Nicole Beverly, this film chronicles her harrowing journey through domestic abuse and her courageous fight to protect her children and reclaim her life.

Nicole’s story has been featured on Inside Evil with Chris Cuomo, Til Death Do Us Part, and in her top-selling book of the same name. The movie adaptation does a remarkable job of bringing her experiences to life with authenticity and emotional depth. Rather than sensationalizing the violence, the film focuses on the psychological impact of abuse and the long road to healing.

Kaiti Wallen delivers a standout performance, capturing Nicole’s quiet strength and vulnerability. Through gripping courtroom scenes and haunting flashbacks, we witness not only the terror Nicole endured but also her unwavering determination to break free.

Finding Nicole is more than just a film—it’s a powerful statement about resilience, justice, and hope. It’s an emotional, necessary watch that sheds light on the very real issue of domestic violence and the courage it takes to survive it. This is storytelling with purpose.

Cast

Kaiti Wallen – Kaiti Wallen
Mari G. – Warren Beverly
Sean Whalen – Cameron Banks
Shawntay Dalon – Shonda Wright, Esq
Richard Tyson – Judge Carter

*The author was contacted for an honest review of this film and received a screener link. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Monsters, Love, and Survival: Inside Alec Gillis’ Indie Creature-Feature ‘Wellwood’

Wellwood is available on Video On Demand. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Wellwood: Creature Effects Legend Alec Gillis Returns to His Indie Roots

Renowned creature effects artist Alec Gillis—known for his groundbreaking work on the Alien and Predator franchises, Starship Troopers, and most recently Smile 2—is returning to his independent film roots with Wellwood, a new creature-feature produced under his company Pro Machina, Inc. (Roberson Public Relations, 2025)

Alec began his career working with low-budget film icon Roger Corman and has long been an advocate for the art of practical effects. His latest venture, Wellwood, embraces that passion. Produced through Pro Machina, a studio focused on practical effects-heavy, lower-budget films, Wellwood showcases the craftsmanship and creativity that have become Alec’s hallmark.

Now Available on VOD

Wellwood, executive produced by Alec Gillis, was released in April 2025 by Uncork’d Entertainment and is now available on all major video-on-demand platforms, including streaming, satellite, and cable.

Practical Effects at the Forefront

True to Gillis’ legacy, every creature and corpse in Wellwood was built using practical effects. Alec and his team created the alien creature at the center of the film using rod puppets, a full-body suit, and mechanized heads. They also designed several human and animal “bodies” for key scenes—don’t worry, no animals were harmed in the making of this film!

A Legacy of Creature Creation

In addition to his work on Wellwood, Alec’s effects company Studio Gillis has recently contributed creatures and effects to major films such as Smile 2, Alien: Romulus, the upcoming I Love Boosters, and the Naked Gun reboot.

Previously, Alec co-founded Amalgamated Dynamics, Inc. (ADI), where he was nominated for an Academy Award for his work on Alien 3. Other notable credits from his ADI tenure include Death Becomes Her, Tremors, Prey, and of course, Starship Troopers.

Wellwood — A Sci-Fi Thriller With Heart

Tagline:
A man takes a dangerous creature hostage after he convinces himself the creature’s blood is the key to curing his sick wife.

Question:
In the end, what would you believe?

Synopsis

When Laura Harper (Camille Balsamo-Gillis) is diagnosed with a terminal illness, her husband Nick (Reid Collums) is driven to the edge in his search for a cure. His desperate journey leads him to an extraterrestrial being he believes can save her. But as Nick’s obsession grows, their actions draw the attention of law enforcement, including Deputy Gracie Marsh (Keisha Castle-Hughes) and the steadfast Sheriff Bradley (Lance E. Nichols). What follows is a harrowing exploration of love, belief, and the consequences of crossing the line.

Meet the Filmmakers

  • Director: Eliza Hooper
  • Producers: Camille Balsamo-Gillis, Reid Collums, Alec Gillis
  • Writer: Reid Collums

Wellwood is a must-watch for fans of sci-fi, practical effects, and human storytelling. Catch it now on your favorite VOD platform.

Camille Balsamo Gillis as Laura Harper in Wellwood. Courtesy photo,used with permission.