Watch Welcome to Happy Valley

Welcome to Happy Valley is a 2013 indie drama film directed by Mark Leisher and written by Michael Caporale. The movie is set in a small town in rural America and revolves around the lives of several characters, each with their unique struggles and hopes for the future. Brooke Coleman plays Abby, a young woman who returns to Happy Valley after dropping out of college to take care of her sick mother. Abby is met with a series of challenges, including a strained relationship with her mother and an abusive ex-boyfriend. As the story progresses, Abby gradually learns to confront her past and take control of her life.

Dan Glenn plays Frank, a middle-aged man who runs a local furniture store and is struggling to keep his business afloat. Frank is a widower and a father to a teenage daughter who is going through a rebellious phase. Despite his struggles, Frank is determined to provide for his family and keep his business going.

Merri Jamison plays Pamela, a middle-aged woman who is struggling with addiction and a crumbling marriage. Pamela is desperate to get back on her feet and turn her life around, but her addiction and her rocky relationship with her husband make it difficult for her to see a way out.

The movie also features several supporting characters, including Abby's childhood friend Chris (played by David Johnson), a kind-hearted mechanic who provides Abby with much-needed support, and Frank's elderly mother (played by Linda Hunt), who offers him words of wisdom and encouragement.

Overall, Welcome to Happy Valley is a poignant and heartfelt portrayal of life in a small town. The film deals with several important themes, including family, friendship, addiction, and the struggle for personal growth. The performances by the cast are excellent, particularly those of Brooke Coleman and Dan Glenn, who bring a sense of authenticity and emotional depth to their respective roles.

One of the strengths of the film is its ability to balance moments of humor with moments of intense drama. The movie never feels overly sentimental or heavy-handed, and Leisher's direction is subtle and understated.

Another standout aspect of the movie is its depiction of small-town life. The film captures the rhythms and routines of a close-knit community, as well as the inherent challenges and limitations of a rural existence. It is clear that the filmmakers have a deep affection for the town and its inhabitants, and this affection is palpable on screen.

In summary, Welcome to Happy Valley is a moving and introspective drama that offers a glimpse into the lives of ordinary people struggling to find their way in the world. The film is a testament to the power of human connection and the resilience of the human spirit, and it is sure to resonate with audiences who have experienced their own struggles and hardships.

Welcome to Happy Valley is a 2015 kids & family movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 51 minutes. It has received mostly poor reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 4.8.