User reviews

Greetings again from the darkness. Put me down as one of those saps who struggles mightily watching kids in peril ... even if 'it's only a movie.' Writer-director Dan Kay taps right into my weakness in the opening scene. Two sisters find their mother on the floor of the rural house - dead from an overdose. It's a situation where initially we have hope. Perhaps the girls will be better off without a druggie mom. But life is rarely that simple.

Mckenna Grace (GIFTED, 2017) is remarkable as 15-year-old Spider. She's so determined to keep together what remains of her family that she looks forcefully in the eyes of her younger sister Jessie (a terrific Jojo Regina, WHERE THE CRAWDADS SING, 2022) and says, "I'll die before I let them break us up." And neither Jessie nor us viewers have any doubt she means it. Yet, the challenges of that promise mount quickly ... and start with what to do with mom's body while keeping her death a secret.

Other challenges include mom's frightening druggie boyfriend, Reece (Dacre Montgomery, WENT UP THE HILL, 2025), who threatens the girls in order to extort money from them. There is also a social worker (Tamara Austin), and a well-meaning local Sheriff (Jesse Williams, "Grey's Anatomy), who happens to be the father of Spider's best friend Alexis (Malia Baker, "The Baby-Sitters Club"). All of this is piled up on the girls attending school and not arousing suspicion ... an incredibly stressful task for two youngsters. The emotional strain forces them to deal with a situation way beyond their years.

The interaction between the two sisters is mesmerizing to watch. Both actors are tremendous and create characters that find us believing everything they say and do. Spider has (mostly) pent up anger, while Jessie chooses to remember her mom's goodness. The dynamics shift a bit when local boy Cody (Forest Goodluck, THE MISEDUCATION OF CAMERON POST, 2018), takes an interest in Spider, using photography as an icebreaker. This acts as a reminder that Spider is a young girl who should be enjoying friends and figuring out relationships, rather than protecting her sister from outsiders.

Filmmaker Kay delivers an ending that fits so well with a story that has put the characters and viewers through immense emotional strain. This is one of the indie gems that has a lot going for it, not the least of which is these two outstanding young actors.

A limited theatrical rollout continues August 22, 2025 and August 29, 2025 in select cities.

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.

What We Hide is such a must see. The story telling is amazing and the acting just makes it ten times better. The cast is stacked with Mckenna Grace, Dacre Montgomery, Malia Baker, Jojo Regina and Jessie Williams- all from projects people know and love already. This film needs more credit as it's amazing and such a great original authentic film which we don't see in movies that much nowadays. I'm calling it now that Malia Baker, Mckenna Grace and Jojo Regina are the future of the film!! Loved this.

I went into "What We Hide" expecting another typical indie drama, but Dan Kay completely blew me away. McKenna Grace and Jojo Regina deliver powerhouse performances as sisters who hide their mother's body after a fatal overdose, and their chemistry feels so authentic it hurts.

What really got me was how Kay handles the tension. Instead of cheap thrills, he builds this slow-burn dread that had me on edge throughout. The cinematography captures this raw, gritty atmosphere that makes you feel trapped alongside Spider and Jessie. Plus, Jesse Williams as the local sheriff asking questions and Dacre Montgomery as their mom's drug dealer both bring serious menace to their roles.

The script doesn't judge these kids for their impossible choice. It just shows how desperation can push people to extremes when the system fails them. Grace especially shines - she's come so far since her earlier work.

Is it a remake? Nope, this is all Kay's vision, and it shows. The guy knows how to craft a story that sticks with you.

And yes, definitely worth your time, if you want something that'll mess with your head in the best way. Just prepare for some heavy emotional moments - this one hits different.

Outstanding performances by the cast! This heart warming film is a must see! The cinematography is beautiful and keeps you engaged the whole time. If you haven't seen this movie yet you are majorly missing out. I want to say more but don't want to give anything away so that you can experience it all yourself!

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. :(

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.

I've seen this film three times now and the third was an even more intense experience than the first two. McKenna Grace and Jojo Regina gave such realistic performances as the sisters who are suffering because of their mother's overdose (& their terrified of the drug dealer's pure evil performance). The film quality and character chemistry was so good! And the scenes filmed in Plant City, Brandon, and Pinellas County, Florida seemed perfectly placed. Kudos to the whole cast and to Hungry Bull Productions for another great film.

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.

What We Hide takes a unique view of the opioid crisis by looking at it through the eyes of children. A gripping tale of tragedy, sisterhood, and, ultimately, resilience. The acting and story is incredible and engrosses you in the world of two young sisters who have to fight to stay together. The film both breaks your heart and leaves you with a sense of hope.

This is a really special, pitch-perfect film. An incredibly engaging, moving story. Not one moment ever takes you out, thanks to the ever rising tension and authentic, grounded acting. Some performances not to be missed: McKenna Grace, Jojo Regina, Forrest Goodluck, and Dacre Montgomery. Beautifully shot as well.

This remarkable movie tells the poignant story of two sisters trying to stay toghether as challenges arise amid a broken foster system,after their mother dies of overdose. From joyous highs to heartbreaking lows, their rollercoaster of emotions captivates the audience, making it impossible to look away. With a powerful narrative that resonates deeply, the film not only entertains but also aims to raise awareness for a vital cause. Prepare to be emotionally invested from start to finish, as this cinematic experience will leave you reflecting long after the credits roll.

Jojo and McKenna did so amazing on this project. Their performances made me cry. Very well written and great cinematography! The talent and emotion in this movie is so raw and special. I loved seeing the way Spider and Jessie deal with their grief of losing their mother. This movie really moved me. I definitely recommend watching.

The film is truly special. The kids performances were truly moving. The cinematography was beautiful. The themes were present but not preachy. I really enjoyed watching every moment.

There were aspects that reminded me of Winter's Bone. Probably bc of the young female protagonists, and who they had to become to protect their family. It's not a perfect comparison but I had similar feelings go through me at times. Great movie!

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.

They two main leads really pull you into their story give you a glimpse into how kids lives are impacted by parents affect by drug use. Not only are they battling the loss of their parents, they're also trying to grow up without guidance. This movie provides a look into a sad and honest truth of what is happening to some of the communities in our country.

Just as Spider, so brilliantly played by Mckenna Grace had to overcome challenges and to protect her younger sister Jessie, played beautifully by rising star Jojo Regina, the making of this special film had to deal with major storms including a hurricane, Covid delays, a harsh and declining market for indie dramas, these challenges were overcome and now this unique film is available to the public - enjoy the remarkable performances and story!

The chemistry Jojo & McKenna have on screen makes it seem so real. It's a great story that hits on drug use, family bonds & loyalty.

These two young sisters go thru so much due to their mother's drug use. The town sheriff from Grey's Anatomy does great in this film, even the villain of the story is actually good!

Definitely worth the watch!!

Such a sweet and touching film that pulls you in and accurately depicts the experiences, feelings and challenges of the millions of children and teens impacted by the addiction of a family member and those grieving a loss from overdose. The deep bond and connection between the siblings, the roles they take on in the family and the community members that support them are weaved in organically and realistically. Thank you for making this movie and giving our kids a voice.

Beautiful film with a lot of heart and great performances all around. Especially the kids - McKenna Grace is exceptional. Really loved the dynamic between the sisters and the restrained direction really allows the relationship to play out naturally. The subject matter is so important and timely. This is a great film!

Very well written and directed... had me hooked from the very beginning. Actors also did a great job portraying the story line and were well chosen. It is sad to think about the sexual and drug abuse that is out there in this world, but it's good to see a feel good story of a family over coming it. An absolute must-see!