Words on Bathroom Walls
Movie Trailer
Release Date
August 21, 2020
Genre
Drama, Romance
Cast & Crew
- Charlie Plummer as Adam Petrazelli
- Taylor Russell as Maya Arnez
- AnnaSophia Robb as Rebecca
- Walton Goggins as Paul
- Molly Parker as Beth Petrazelli
- Andy García as Father Patrick
Director
Thor Freudenthal
Other Movies Director is Known For
- Diary of a Wimpy Kid (2010)
- Percy Jackson: Sea of Monsters (2013)
- Hotel for Dogs (2009)
Producer
Mickey Liddell, Pete Shilaimon, Thor Freudenthal
Writer
Nick Naveda (Screenplay), based on the novel by Julia Walton
Budget
$10 million (estimated)
Production Company
LD Entertainment, Kickstart Productions
Running Time
111 minutes
Languages
English
Maturity Rating
PG-13
Content Advisory
- Language
- Thematic elements
- Some violence
Movie Story
Words on Bathroom Walls is a poignant and uplifting drama that follows the life of Adam Petrazelli, a high school senior diagnosed with schizophrenia. The film provides an intimate look into Adam’s struggles as he tries to balance his mental illness with the everyday challenges of teenage life. Adam’s condition causes him to experience vivid hallucinations, which are represented by three characters who appear to him regularly: the smooth-talking Joaquin, the protective Rebecca, and the perpetually angry Bodyguard. These hallucinations serve as both a source of comfort and chaos in Adam’s life, making it difficult for him to distinguish between reality and his mind’s creations.
The story begins with Adam being expelled from his high school after a particularly intense episode in chemistry class. With his future hanging in the balance, he enrolls in a Catholic school, where he meets Maya, a brilliant and compassionate student who quickly becomes his confidante and romantic interest. Maya helps Adam navigate his condition with understanding and support, offering him a chance at normalcy in a world that often feels out of control.
As Adam continues to battle his inner demons, he faces the stigma and misunderstanding that often accompany mental illness. His relationship with his mother, Beth, and her new partner, Paul, is strained as they struggle to understand what Adam is going through. However, with the guidance of Father Patrick, the school’s supportive priest, Adam begins to find hope and the strength to accept himself.
The film beautifully captures Adam’s journey toward self-acceptance and his determination to live life on his own terms. Through Adam’s eyes, Words on Bathroom Walls explores the complexities of mental health, the power of love and friendship, and the importance of not being defined by one’s illness.
Special Effects
The special effects in Words on Bathroom Walls are used to visualize Adam’s hallucinations, bringing his inner world to life in a way that is both engaging and empathetic. The visual representations of his hallucinations are creatively designed to reflect his emotional state, enhancing the audience’s understanding of his condition. These effects are seamlessly integrated into the narrative, adding depth to Adam’s experience without overshadowing the story’s emotional core.
Box Office Performance
Words on Bathroom Walls was released during the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in a limited theatrical release and subsequent availability on digital platforms. Despite the challenging release environment, the film was well-received by audiences and critics alike, particularly for its sensitive portrayal of mental illness and the strong performances of its cast, especially Charlie Plummer.
Filming Locations
- Wilmington, North Carolina, USA
Notable Quotes
- “You can’t always trust what you see, but you can trust what you feel.” – Adam Petrazelli
- “You are not your illness. You have a gift, and you’re going to do something great with it.” – Father Patrick
Behind-the-Scenes
Director Thor Freudenthal took great care in portraying Adam’s schizophrenia in a way that was both respectful and authentic. The film is based on Julia Walton’s novel of the same name, and the adaptation was praised for its faithful representation of the book’s themes and character development. The filmmakers consulted mental health professionals to ensure an accurate depiction of the condition, aiming to raise awareness and reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness.
Awards
- Nominated for Best Performance by a Youth (Charlie Plummer) at the 2021 Critics’ Choice Movie Awards
- Nominated for Best Adapted Screenplay at the 2021 Writers Guild of America Awards (WGA)
Final Verdict
Words on Bathroom Walls is a touching and insightful film that offers a compassionate portrayal of a young man’s struggle with schizophrenia. Charlie Plummer’s heartfelt performance as Adam is the emotional anchor of the film, capturing the challenges and triumphs of living with mental illness. The film’s blend of drama and romance, combined with its thoughtful exploration of mental health, makes it a must-watch for anyone looking for a story of hope, resilience, and the power of human connection.
IMDb Rating
7.2/10