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Every Last Secret
By Monique Jones,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
PTSD drama has problematic messages, iffy content.
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Every Last Secret
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Do not waste your time
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What's the Story?
EVERY LAST SECRET follows Freeman (Mark Kassen), a U.S. veteran who's aimlessly going through life after being diagnosed with PTSD. Teenage Penelope (Sophie Turner) attaches herself to him, to the chagrin of her father (Ray Liotta). The resulting tension escalates in way that doesn't bode well.
Is It Any Good?
It wants to be seen as a deep drama, but this film doesn't have any redeeming qualities, especially for families. It's ableist, it reinforces harmful stereotypes about women, and it features uncomfortable/illegal relationships between adult and teen characters -- both the strange "platonic" situation between Freeman and 17-year-old Penelope and the sexual encounter that escort Elly (Ivana Millicevic) has with two of Penelope's friends. Every Last Secret also makes it seem like Freeman is unfit to live simply because he has PTSD, which is a treatable condition. That messaging could be damaging to those who struggle with mental health and suicidal ideation, as well as reinforce harmful beliefs about mental health.
On top of all that, the story makes no sense. The film doesn't do anything to flesh out its main character. It isn't interested in understanding anything about Freeman's motivations or drive. It lazily tries to use women to deepen his characterization. Both Penelope and Elly are consistent with tired stereotypes about the roles of women in film -- i.e. having no purpose outside of interacting with a male character. Penelope is a "manic pixie dream girl" who behaves in a way that's supposed to seem quirky, daring, or aspirational but is actually nonsensical. Her father might be the only character in the film who acts like a real human, but he takes a turn for the worse in the film's inexplicable third act. Ultimately, there's really no story here, and it's a waste of your time.
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Hotline online or via phone at 1-800-273-8255 (for the deaf and hard of hearing, contact 1-800-799-4889).
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about mental health. Why is mental health awareness important? How does Every Last Secret approach the topic?
What makes the characters' relationships in the film problematic?
How does the film perpetuate stereotypes about women? Those with PTSD?
How else could the film have discussed the lives of American veterans?
How does the film address suicide? If you know someone struggling with suicidal ideation, these resources can help.
Movie Details
- In theaters: April 1, 2022
- On DVD or streaming: June 14, 2022
- Cast: Mark Kassen , Sophie Turner , Ray Liotta , Mark Margolis
- Director: Matthew Coppola
- Inclusion Information: Female actors
- Studio: Vertical Entertainment
- Genre: Drama
- Run time: 93 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
- Last updated: February 11, 2023
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