Watch DAMAGED

When Katie Arneson (Merritt Patterson) returns to her hometown after dropping out of college, her future seems bleak. She has lost her scholarship, and her mother's house is facing foreclosure. Desperate for a way out, she accepts a job at a local bar where she befriends co-worker Jake (Michael Adamthwaite) and begins a turbulent relationship with local bad boy, Paul (Chris Klein).

As Katie tries to navigate her new life and past demons, she discovers that Paul's past is even more complicated than hers. He is haunted by a traumatic event that occurred when he was a teenager and has been struggling with addiction ever since. Their relationship becomes increasingly volatile as they both try to overcome their personal struggles.

Amidst the chaos, a small-town detective (John Saxon) investigating a string of disappearances starts to suspect Paul may be involved. As the investigation intensifies, Katie is forced to make a choice between the man she loves and the truth.

DAMAGED is a gritty drama that explores the dark side of small-town life and the consequences of our past mistakes. The film offers a raw depiction of addiction, mental health, and trauma, and how these issues can have a ripple effect on those around us. The performances of the lead actors are particularly noteworthy, with Merritt Patterson giving a nuanced and layered portrayal of a young woman struggling to find her place in the world, and Chris Klein delivering a powerful performance as a troubled man haunted by his past.

The film's cinematography is another standout aspect, with the desolate landscapes of the Pacific Northwest serving as a striking backdrop for the characters' struggles. Director Rick Bieber's distinct visual style and attention to detail serve to enhance the film's tense and foreboding atmosphere.

Ultimately, DAMAGED is a gripping and thought-provoking drama that offers a poignant commentary on the impacts of addiction and trauma, and the difficulties of escaping the cycles we're born into. It is a must-watch for fans of intense character-driven dramas and those looking for a fresh take on the small-town thriller genre.