What We Hide

As someone who has suffered from someone's drug addiction and grief this hit close to home. This story was told so raw and was portrayed as beautifully as it could have been. Mckenna is absolutes incredible at her craft she truly is gifted. Although I will say the story fell flat a few times throughout the film. If it were not for the amazing cast that just blew the film out of the water im not sure that it would have transmitted the same emotion. The ending especially. Although for an indie film this is incredible & thankful for these types of stories to still be told and pushed into the light.. these are many children's real life unfortunately. :(

FKA Spider & Jessie, the strong script and phenomenal acting in this film yields a beautifully authentic story about love, loss and the unbreakable bond of family, in the face of overwhelming odds.

In an ensemble cast full of amazing talent, including Jessie Williams of Gray's Anatomy, Dacre Montgomery of Stranger Things and Malia Baker of Descendants, Jojo Regina and McKenna Grace deliver career best performances. Their chemistry is the heart and soul of this important and timely tale.

Regina is raw and authentic with an unparalleled range. She pulls you in with a vulnerable and heartbreaking opening scene, and never lets you go as she effortlessly moves between humor, riveting intensity and unshakeable hope. In the face of devastating loss, she reveals the true dichotomy of a child's struggle to find peace, as she weighs the painful truth of her mother's addiction against the goodness of her heart. Regina delivers an unforgettable and compelling performance that will make you laugh, cry and think. Her talent is awe-inspiring and her mastery of the craft is far beyond her years.

Grace embodies the grit and determination of a young mother lioness, protecting her cub from the dangers of the wild. She's resourceful, determined and ready to do whatever it takes to survive. Another excellent performance. This is a side of her you've never seen. She deftly navigates Spider's anger towards her mother, love for her sister and awkward sweetness of her first relationship.

All of this combined with the gentle guidance of Director, Dan Kay, and the skillful cinematography of Pip White, has resulted in the impossible marriage of gritty realism and ethereal beauty, that will live with you long after the credits roll.

A must see.

Some movies grab your attention with action or big twists, but What We Hide works in a completely different way. It's a quiet, emotional story that slowly gets under your skin and stays with you long after it's over.

The film follows two sisters, Spider and Jessie, who are suddenly left on their own after their mother dies. Instead of telling anyone, they decide to hide her death, terrified that the foster system will split them apart. It's a heartbreaking setup, but the film never feels cheap or over-the-top. Instead, it's about survival, loyalty, and the fierce bond between two kids who only have each other.

The reason this story hits so hard is because of the performances. McKenna Grace is outstanding as Spider. She plays the older sister with a mix of toughness and deep vulnerability, showing the pain of a child forced to act like an adult. Jojo Regina, as Jessie, is just as powerful in a softer way. She brings innocence, hope, and sweetness that make you root for her instantly. Together, they're magnetic-you believe every look, every argument, and every small moment of love between them.

The rest of the cast adds texture without taking away from the sisters. Jesse Williams plays a sheriff who sees more than he lets on, Forrest Goodluck adds some warmth as a rare friend, and Dacre Montgomery is genuinely intimidating as a local threat. They all help create the small-town world that the sisters are struggling to survive in.

Visually, the movie keeps things simple. The muted colors and quiet settings match the story's tone. It doesn't try to be flashy, and that works-it feels grounded and real, almost like you're peeking into someone's life.

What really makes What We Hide special is that, despite its heavy subject, it's ultimately about love. It's about two sisters holding on to each other, no matter how bad things get. Yes, it's emotional and at times tough to watch, but it's also moving and deeply human.

What We Hide is a small, powerful film that proves sometimes the quietest stories can leave the loudest impact.

This is my kind of movie; meaningful and thought provoking, serious but with sweet moments, and good suspense. McKenna Grace and Jojo Regina are both excellent and have great chemistry as the leading ladies. Jesse Williams as the sheriff and Forrest Goodluck as the love interest were also enjoyable and well cast. The world of the movie feels believable and interesting.

Compelling real-life story. Engaging acting drew me in for the full duration. Moving and beautiful cinema and action. The issues raised provoke thought and consideration for our legal, medical, and child care industries. I could not imagine this issue could be presented with such accuracy, compassion, and impact.