Charlene Tilton and Jasper Cole star in the new horror thriller “Final Recovery,” which sheds light on the dark side of addiction recovery.
It will be released on May 2nd on Tubi and Amazon by Buffalo 8. “Final Recovery” was directed by Harley Wallen from a screenplay by Jerry Lee Davis and Nick Theurer (“The Way Out”).
The movie centers on Sage, a Southeast Michigan recovery facility run by the seemingly benevolent Louise “Nanny Lou” Stamey (played by Charlene Tilton), who proves that looks can be deceiving.
Patients Rodney (Jasper Cole) and Dustin (Damien Chinappi) discover that her operation prioritizes profit over patient care, revealing a sinister reality beneath the surface.
The ensemble cast also includes Richard Tyson, Michael Emery, Cherish Lee, Shelby Bradley, and Kaiti Wallen, among others.
Charlene Tilton is a force of nature as Nanny Lou in a cerebral performance that will chill the audience to the bone. Viewers can recall Louise Fletcher (who played Nurse Ratched) in “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” meets Jackie Weaver in “Animal Kingdom.” One simply cannot take their eyes off of Tilton.
Jasper Cole is compelling and convincing as Rodney, who is trying to be liberated from the prison of addiction at Sage, while Damien Chinappi is equally appealing as Dustin.
Most impressive about this film is that Cherish Lee and her mother, Charlene Tilton, collaborate on screen for the first time, with Lee also contributing original music to the film. Lee pulls off an emotional scene as Tonya where she knocks it out of the ballpark; a true standout moment in “Final Recovery.”
Shelby Bradley is superb in the role of Marianne Patterson. Everybody in this cast brings something special to the table.
The horror film is rich in symbolism, if one pays close attention to the story, and it has some twists and turns that will keep the audience at the edge of their seats.
The Verdict
Overall, “Final Recovery” is a stimulating and dark, yet engaging horror film from start to finish. It was expertly shot by Harley Wallen, who should be recommended for his vision in bringing this unflinching piece to life.
Compliments to Jerry Lee Davis and Nick Theurer for writing such a powerful script that feels honest, invigorating, and realistic, and one that is rich in character development.
Most importantly, this film paints a vivid picture on addiction being a monster with recovery as a revolution.
There is a rawness, intimacy, and authenticity to this story, so prepare to be blown away. It will surpass one’s expectations, and it garners 4.5 out of 5 stars.
