Adam Meeks offers a heartfelt, compassionate perspective on life in Union County, weaving a compelling drama centered around Cody Parsons. As Cody navigates the challenges of a county-mandated drug court in rural Ohio, the film unfolds with a gentle rhythm, vividly capturing the harsh reality of an opioid-hit community and the flickering hope that persists within it. Meeks, acting as both writer and director, crafts an immersive world where the journey to recovery resembles a long, familiar walk through open fields—quiet yet demanding—where small, luminous moments shine through.
Will Poulter delivers a compelling and grounded performance as Cody, capturing the character’s early uncertainty with a gentle, inquisitive energy. Noah Centineo brings warmth and authenticity as a fellow participant, creating a sense of camaraderie that makes the story truly inviting. Elise Kibler shines as a counselor who passionately believes in the program’s mission, crafting scenes that feel both personal and communal, drawing viewers into an engaging and heartfelt experience.
The film’s depiction of rural Ohio immerses viewers in a vivid sense of place that lingers long after. Meeks masterfully captures the heartbeat of a community driven by hard work, grief, and resilience, allowing Cody’s journey to develop with deliberate patience.
The drug court program emerges as a pivotal crossroads, where each character bears the weight of their past while striving for a more stable future.
Some parts of the film unfold at a deliberate pace, inviting viewers to reflect deeply. This subtle approach gives the cast space to breathe, especially in scenes where Cody faces the habits and memories that shaped his life prior to the program. Poulter and Centineo share a handful of scenes charged with understated trust, delivering the film’s most poignant and memorable exchanges.
Meeks’ script embraces sincerity, prioritizing clarity over flair. The emotional journey unfolds through subtle moments—shared rides, group meetings, and the quiet effort of choosing a new path. These scenes form a heartfelt and authentic portrait of recovery, brought to life by performances that truly resonate with the story’s core.
As Union County approaches the final act, the film gradually infuses a warm, uplifting Spirit. Cody’s journey feels authentic, shaped by the embrace of community, unwavering persistence, and the hopeful belief that healing can flourish in the most unexpected places. Meeks crafts a film that flows with tenderness, supported by a cast that radiates warmth and brings layers of depth to every scene.
Letter Grade: B+.
Leave a Reply