Watch Paradise Recovered

Paradise Recovered is a thought-provoking drama film about a young woman named Esther (played by Heather Wallis) who is fresh out of college and begins an unsettling journey of self-discovery. Esther's journey takes her from her small, sheltered life in rural Ohio to a farm community in Missouri where she works at an organic food co-op. Unsure of her future and longing to find her place in life, Esther is searching for something more but doesn't quite know what that is.

At the food co-op, Esther meets a young man named John (played by Dane Hurlburt), who is an overly enthusiastic and passionate advocate for organic food and natural living. While John is a bit awkward, he becomes fascinated with Esther's reserved and shy demeanor. Despite the initial awkwardness, the two begin to develop a friendship as Esther becomes more involved with the co-op.

As Esther becomes more immersed in the co-op, she is introduced to its charismatic leader, Gideon (played by Oliver Luke), who is adored by his followers. Gideon is a magnetic figure who has a charismatic and seductive presence with a message about finding true happiness in simplicity and in natural living. Gideon's message resonates with Esther, and she begins to get caught up in the co-op's beliefs and lifestyle.

As time goes on, Esther becomes increasingly dedicated to the co-op's mission, even as others around her begin to question Gideon's leadership and motives. Eventually, Esther's loyalty is put to the test as she starts to uncover unsettling aspects of the co-op and its leader that threaten everything she has come to believe in.

Paradise Recovered is a well-crafted character-driven film that explores the idea of what it means to truly belong and find one's place in the world. The film raises important questions about the thin line between faith and fanaticism, personal freedom and collective responsibility, and the difficulty of navigating these complex issues amid a group of like-minded individuals.

The movie is beautifully shot, with stunning landscapes and intimate character moments that capture the essence of Esther's journey. The performances are strong all around, particularly Heather Wallis, who conveys Esther's inner turmoil and search for meaning with subtlety and grace. Dane Hurlburt delivers an endearing and awkward portrayal of John, who becomes a symbol of Esther's own struggles with identity and belonging. Oliver Luke is impressive as Gideon, who manages to remain enigmatic and seductive, even as the audience starts to suspect that there's something darker lurking beneath his charismatic facade.

Overall, Paradise Recovered is a film that will resonate with anyone who has ever felt lost or unsure of their place in the world. Its exploration of the complexities of faith, identity, and community is nuanced and thought-provoking, and its characters are relatable and real. The movie's message is ultimately one of hope and resilience, as Esther learns to navigate the complexities of life and find her own paradise, even in the midst of uncertainty and doubt.