Wake Up

Wake Up (2022) is an uncompromising dive into the grim realities of sex trafficking in the USA. Its interwoven storylines reveal a chilling mosaic of lives shattered by exploitation, offering an unrelenting look at a world where innocence is bartered and humanity feels like a luxury.

The performances are gut-wrenchingly raw, with each actor delivering stripped-down, intensely real portrayals. Director, Janet Craig, keeps a steady hand on the wheel, steering the film through harrowing territory without resorting to cheap sensationalism. The result is gripping, emotionally charged storytelling that keeps you riveted even as it pulls you deeper into its dark, unyielding world.

However, the film's relentless bleakness leaves little room for reprieve, a creative choice that may drain some viewers. While it doesn't always strike a perfect balance, its impact is undeniable. Wake Up is a harrowing, hard-hitting drama that shakes its audience to their core-and ensures they'll never forget its message.

Wake Up tells a critically important story about family, foster child support, and human trafficking. The subject matter is difficult, but this challenge outweighs the crucial necessity of educating viewers about the horrors of crimes committed against the most vulnerable. Director Janet Craig balances the weight of the subject matter with nuance and lighter moments. The production value is strong, as well as particularly powerful performances by the lead actors. A great idea is to host this movie in your home and local community to raise the importance of supporting foster children and protecting everyone from the scourge of human trafficking. This movie makes a great conversation starter about how to push back the darkness and bring about real change in every community.

I have seen this movie twice now and the emotions you go through watching it and afterward thinking about how easily entangled the youth are in this type of setup are heart wrenching. This movie is gripping, thrilling and really makes you angry at the absolute depravity around our world and even right in our very own neighborhoods. The intersection of the porn industry and foster and vulnerable youth and the trafficking not to mention the buyers of sex is very eye opening. I love Janet Craig's heart to write, produce and act in this film and entreat others to get involved locally with organizations in the fight against trafficking. Don't miss this film!

I was so impressed by this movie! The storyline, characters and subject matter are portrayed in an honest and unflinching manner. The filmmakers do not pull any punches, and the result is an incredibly moving and insightful look into the world of child sex trafficking. From the manipulative way foster children are exploited, to the levels of organization involved, to pillars of the community who secretly support this awful crime, to a few good guys doing something about it, every stone was uncovered and dealt with. Full kudos go to writer/director Janet Craig, co-writer Dan Horan, and a talented group of actors willing to venture into the darkest corners of the human soul to tell this important story. O'Shay Neal gives a standout performance as one of the most despicable characters I've seen. It's the best drama you'll see this year!

Wake Up is a gripping and heart-wrenching film that delves into the horrifying reality of human trafficking. The story shines a light on the exploitation of vulnerable youth, particularly those in the foster care system. Janet Craig's portrayal is raw and compelling, driving home the urgency of this issue. Issac Singleton also delivers a powerful performance as Officer Tanner, adding depth to the narrative. The film is a call to action, urging viewers to confront and combat this ongoing crisis. It's a must-watch that leaves a lasting impact, opening eyes to the harsh truths that are often ignored.