Girl in the Attic (2025) Movie Script
[ominous music plays]
[grunting]
[exhausted exhale]
[grunting continues]
[loud thud]
[nervous panting]
- You're okay.
- Ah, wait.
No, I can't, I can't.
- You can.
- It freaks me out.
- You just have to relax.
Or, why don't I just
do it without makeup?
Because when you look more
gorgeous, you make more money.
Oh, Sofia, you can't say that.
That is so messed up.
Okay, don't blame
me, blame like... science.
I'm just trying to help you.
Oh, science?
Really?
- Mm-hmmm.
- You failed science.
Okay.
[both laugh]
Let's just remember why
we're doing this.
Okay, just do it.
Okay, so don't look
at my hand.
Don't look at the wand.
- Okay.
Focus on a spot on
the ceiling as hard as you can,
and it'll be over before
you know it.
Chin down.
Blink.
Blink.
Blink.
And we'll do the other side.
And blink.
Blink.
Gorgeous. Okay.
What do you think?
Superstar?
[giggles]
Can I go? Yeah.
Hi, everyone, um, my name
is Kelsey Romano
and this is my mom...
Lisa.
[tender music]
We
we actually made this frame at
a craft fair together.
She's always so good at coming
up with fun things for us to do.
Um,
but three months ago,
after a long battle,
she died of breast cancer.
Um...
[whispers inaudibly]
[Kelsey exhales]
The only agonizing,
opposite of fun,
thing she liked to do was run.
And I always hated when
she would ask me
to go on runs with her.
But this summer,
the Breast Cancer Awareness
Foundation is sponsoring
a charity half marathon,
right here in the city,
and I determined to run it,
for my mom.
So, over the next six months,
I will be posting
my updates, um,
keeping you guys posted,
and please consider
making donations,
if you can.
Even a dollar helps.
Um...
Social media.
Oh, yes, and you can find
all my information
on my social media.
Okay, thanks guys.
I'll see you out there.
Okay, one-take wonder.
[both laugh]
- Was that fine?
- Yeah, it's great.
- Okay.
[birds chirping]
[Kelsey]: Dad, I can't
do this anymore.
Oh, are you seriously
telling me
two blocks on your first mile
you're gonna call it quits?
Just like that? Come on.
No, Dad, I'm so serious.
My whole body is aching.
I'm gonna puke, I'm gonna puke.
Oh, come on, Kels.
[Kelsey moans]
If we want to get anywhere in
this life,
we gotta develop mental
toughness.
It's just your mind
saying you can't.
Ignore it.
And if my mind is right
and I just expire right here?
Well, then you don't gotta
run no more.
- Ha, ha.
- Come on, let's get home,
you can get on that social
media app you love so much,
and you can tell everyone how
wonderful you're doing.
[Kelsey groans]
[Sofia sighs]
- Dude, we have to go.
The movie starts in 15 minutes.
Uh, no, the half an hour
of previews
they play before the movie
starts is in 15 minutes.
You don't need to respond
to everyone
who donates or writes
a message to you.
These people are taking time
out of their day to help me.
It's the least I can do.
Here look.
You're already at $5,000?!
Shh! Shh!
Why?
This is amazing!
I haven't told my dad yet.
I want to surprise him.
Okay.
But still, then we should
still celebrate.
No, what we need to do
is make another video.
[Sofia grumbles]
So, I just did my first mile.
It was horrible.
I have no idea how
I'm gonna do 13,
but the experts on my app say
if I stick to the plan, I will.
So...
- Oh, she's cute.
Yeah, she's one of the drama
students at the high school
I used to teach at part time.
You teach part time?
Sure, yeah.
After I got back from
New York, you know.
Gotta do your part
where you can.
[Manager]: Billy?
Do a face out pass.
Yeah.
Be there in a jiff.
[scoffs]
[app chimes]
Hey, Billy!
Mrs. Byrd!
How is everything
at the house?
Great.
Why wouldn't it be?
Well, I just worry
about your mom.
I mean, I've known her
a long time.
And you know, she used
to be so active.
And now
stuck in that chair?
I mean, it would bring
me to tears.
But you are so wonderful
to come back here
and take care of her.
Well, just
'til the physio ends.
[piercing screech]
- Ah, God, ah, sorry.
You okay?
Oh, it's just these
damn hearing aids.
They give me such
horrendous feedback.
That's not your hearing aids.
That's coming from my house.
[smoke detector screeching
loudly]
Mom!
[pan thuds in sink]
Mom!
[grunting]
[Billy]: Mom?
I'm here!
[grumbles]
Hey, hey, what happened?
How long have you been
like this?
I'm stuck,
if you can believe it.
Can you help me?
[grunts]
[door creaks]
- I'm sorry, Billy.
What are you apologizing for?
I hate being an invalid.
I pushed myself too hard.
I was feeling wobbly but...
I just had to go to
the bathroom.
I couldn't wait for you
to get home.
All right, can you feel
everything okay?
Dinner's ruined.
I tried to surprise you.
Oh, it's okay.
We can make cereal or something.
No, no, no, no.
Go get $20 out of my purse
and go get some burgers.
My treat.
But you were saying that um...
Don't argue with your mother.
All right.
First get me the hell
outta here.
[money rustles]
Thanks, Mom.
I'm going out!
[upbeat electronic music]
[phone pings]
Hi guys, it's Kelsey, again.
Um, I just wanted to update
you guys on my plans
for this weekend's run...
[car starts]
[footsteps shuffle]
Hey.
You okay?
Mrs. Byrd dropped off
my Costco order
and I thought I had
enough money to pay her.
And you're looking for it
in the couch cushions?
How much did you take out?
Twenty dollars,
like you told me.
Where's the other 40 I had?
There was no other money.
But you took $60 out
of the bank for me.
I haven't touched it
and nobody else
has been in the house except
for you and the cleaning lady.
Mom, I went to the bank
for you two weeks ago.
No, it was Monday.
The doctor said
short-term memory
might be a bit of an issue
after the accident.
[Debbie scoffs]
Look...
Okay, today's the 16th.
I went to the bank
for you on the 3rd.
Well, I guess things are
worse than I thought.
I know my body, I'm a dancer.
I was a dancer.
Hey.
It's okay.
I'm here.
My sweet boy.
[chuckles softly]
If you're gonna be stuck here
with me, your old mom,
then you should at least get
out and have some fun.
You're so handsome.
[exhales]
Find some young beauty
to take out.
That's not really what
I'm focused on right now.
Hmm.
So, how about a gym?
You used to love working out.
I can't do that.
I'm always at work.
If I'm not, I'm here,
watching you.
Your dad's old workout
equipment is up there.
Buried under some stuff.
I'll even give you
a little bit of money.
Fix it up.
Okay.
I like that idea.
Good.
[sighs]
Let's eat.
Oh, I actually ate
mine in the car.
I don't really like it
when it gets cold.
But uh, I'll keep you company.
You're my boy.
Come on.
[Billy grunting]
[ominous music]
[Male Podcaster]: And bro,
you know what?
We've given up on nature.
Women today wait too long
to get married,
and by then,
their minds are corrupted
by the false promises
of feminism.
[fringe clatters]
The simple fact is
that young women
do not know what they want,
let alone what they need.
[grunting exhales]
Hey, hey, hey,
don't throw that away.
That's my memory trunk.
[Billy scoffs]
- You wanna hold on to this?
Yeah.
[tender music]
[latches creak]
Forgotten about this.
[Debbie grunts]
[sighs happily]
[gasps]
This is when I played Vegas.
[giggles]
Oh, my gosh.
[gasps]
This is when I was in
the national tour
of "A Chorus Line".
You were away a lot.
Hey, hey!
[Billy grumbles]
I had to be.
Your father was a wonderful man
but he wasn't much
of a provider.
[annoyed exhale]
And when my mom left us
this house,
the property taxes were crazy,
and if I hadn't worked,
you would have not had
a home to grow up in.
Hang on to it.
And we'll go through it later.
Might want to hang some
of the pictures
on the wall of my room.
- All right.
Well, I'll keep it in
the attic for ya.
Pretty sure there's room.
[trunk clunks]
[grunting exhales]
[trunk thuds]
[phone pings]
[Kelsey[: Hi, guys!
Uh, just an update.
I am happy to report I am
ahead in my training schedule.
[Frank]: Yes, if we pour
the foundation by Friday,
the timeline works.
[Kelsey]: Good morning.
- Okay, gotta.
Kells Bells, big breakfast,
then I drive you to the gym.
Dad, come on.
Did you forget?
Forget what?
I'm running my first
10 mile today.
Not on your own, you're not.
It's our usual training.
Come on, we'll do it together.
Dad, I can't do that.
Everybody's expecting
me to do this.
I will be home before noon.
Besides, isn't this a good
test of my mental toughness?
Goodbye.
[birds chirping]
[panting]
Oh. Okay.
[phone chiming]
[Man]: Hey, excuse me?
You seen a golden retriever
running around?
[Kelsey]: No, sorry.
I didn't check before I opened
the door and he ran off.
He's not trained yet.
My five-year-old's already
obsessed with him,
so I'm trying to find him before
she gets out of camp.
Okay, well,
I'll keep my eyes open.
Hey wait...
Aren't you that girl
who's running for charity?
Yeah, I am.
I've seen your posts online.
Actually used to go to
Lincoln High myself.
Well, hey, wait a sec,
maybe I could show you this
flyer really quick,
just in case you see him later.
Uh... s-sure.
Where are the flyers?
Huh.
Must have left them
at the Kinko's.
Do you wanna grab a drink?
You look like you could
use a drink.
Yeah, I've been running.
I gotta go.
[ominous music]
[Billy]: No, no, no.
This can't be happening.
Hey, what's going on?
I thought you had physical
therapy?
[Debbie]: Oh, the heater broke
and they closed early,
and my ride care couldn't come
for an hour.
Yeah, and she couldn't get
hold of you so she called me.
Tell him your good news, Debbie.
Oh, where did you run off to
so early this morning?
Well, what's the good news?
Um, well, I...
it's no big deal.
[Mrs. Byrd]: No big deal.
She walked two steps.
[Debbie]: With a walker.
[Mrs. Byrd]: It's still
progress!
And your physical therapist
said if you keep up
with your exercises,
you could be out of this chair
within six months.
[hands clap]
Six months?
Really?
You okay?
Yeah, fantastic.
Here, come inside,
I'll make you sandwiches.
Wait, wait, wait, that...
I feel like we should celebrate.
Well, that's why we're here.
We're gonna go inside
and have a nice lunch.
I'll tell you what?
Why don't you guys
on me?
How's that?
And they have Margaritas.
It's barely noon!
Oh, it's perfect!
Gives me a chance to sober
up before my five.
Right, your walk.
5 P.M., every day,
rain or shine.
Rain or shine!
[Mrs. Byrd]: Let's go!
- Well, have fun, ladies.
[wheels rumbling]
[grunting exhales]
There you go.
You're finally home.
Now we can start
our lives together.
[sinister music]
[Kelsey whimpers softly]
[panicked breathing]
Help! Help me!
[shrieking loudly]
Help me! Help!!
Help! Help!
Help me! Help!
[loud rock music blaring]
[Kelsey continues shrieking]
[Kelsey]: Help! Help! Help me!
Help!
Help!
Kelsey! Kels!
It's Sofia!
Yell if you can hear me!
Kelsey!
[call dials]
[phone ringing in distance]
[sinister music]
[Kelsey sobbing]
It's just a dream.
It's just a dream.
Oh, wake up, wake up, wake up.
[Billy]: You're finally awake,
sleepyhead.
[shaky breathing]
What is this?
Where am I?
You're home.
What are you talking about?
Let me go!
Oh, I plan to.
When?
So many questions.
You
y-you, you're that guy,
with the, with the lost dog.
[mumbles indistinctly]
That's the last thing
I remember.
What did you do to me?
[Billy]: Relax, Kelsey.
Now is the time you
can put aside
everything that's ever made you
anxious, or-or-or upset.
How do you know my name?
[scoffs]
I know a lot more about
you than that.
From your posts, remember?
I made a project of you.
My clothes.
It's
am I still a virgin?
[sighs]
- You poor thing.
No, I didn't touch you.
I need my wife to be pure.
[nervous inhale]
Your wife?
You think we're married?
Not yet.
You have to earn that privilege.
And what if I don't want it?
Well, then you
can stay up here.
My wife, on the other hand,
will live in a big,
beautiful house with me.
Have a family.
Dinners together.
Vacations.
Would you like that?
I don't want to stay up here.
So, you'll be my wife?
[whimpers]
[sighs]
Good.
Then I'm gonna need to know
I can trust you.
[notebook thwacks]
- Ow.
Start with your social
media passwords.
[whimpering]
[footsteps thud away]
[floorboard creaks]
[rope creaking]
We finished combing every
inch of the woods
within a five mile radius
of where Kelsey's phone
was located.
And the good news is,
we didn't find any blood
or other signs of foul play.
You ever try to take
a teenager's phone from them?
They will fight you to
the death for it.
So, forgive me if
I don't believe you
that there's no foul play.
She may have been abducted,
or she may have run away.
Run away? No, not Kelsey.
No way.
Listen, I'm sorry,
I'm going to have to ask you,
was everything okay at home?
Yeah.
Yeah, it was good.
I mean
it's been tough since her
mom has been gone
but she seemed good, right?
Yeah.
Were you two fighting
more than usual?
More than usual?
No, we don't fight.
Kelsey's a great kid.
Look...
I'd push her to get good grades
and always do her best.
But I'm supposed to do that,
right?
I mean, I'm her dad, right?
Soph, is there something going
on with Kelsey
that I don't know about?
Soph, I'm desperate here!
If you got some information,
you need to tell us!
Would you rather speak
to me alone?
No.
No, um...
Kelsey just didn't want you
to know
but she's been raising money
online for the half-marathon.
On-online?
Where?
Just like, on social media.
She would post her running
experiences and stuff.
Okay.
Yesterday before she left,
she said she had to do her
first 10-mile run
because everyone was watching.
That's what she meant?
Did she tell people where
she'd be running, Sofia?
Sometimes.
But it was, like, mostly
for, like, tips,
and encouragement, and stuff.
I mean, she's raised
almost $10,000.
I don't believe this.
She-she wanted to do
something really big
for her mom and it was supposed
to be a surprise.
I'm so sorry.
Okay.
I'm going to need to know
every app and all her usernames,
and then we can start
by checking out
her male followers in the area.
Okay, I'm-I'm gonna drive
around the neighborhood.
[engine rumbling]
[door shuts]
[police car rumbles away]
Mom!
[Debbie]: Yes?
[Billy]: What the hell's
going on?
Well, hello to you too.
Why is there a cop outside?
I'm fine.
Everything's fine,
which you would know if you
answered the phone.
I've been trying to call you...
What happened?
After the cleaning girl left,
I checked my purse
and I was missing $36.
You called the police
for that?
This is the third time
my money's gone missing
on cleaning days.
Well, did you mention
to the detective
you have memory problems?
Because this has been
an issue before.
No, I know, I know,
and since the last time
you mentioned that,
I have been keeping a notebook
with all my cash expenses.
Every last cent.
[Billy exhales]
Well, what now?
Should I be expecting to see
more cops around?
Well, what does that matter?
Why do you care?
Because, okay?
I was worried about you.
Hey, hey, hey, hey.
Come here.
[Billy exhales]
You're not rid of me yet.
[Billy exhales sharply]
[gentle ominous music]
[staple gun clunking]
[Billy grunts]
I thought that dress might
be a little tight.
But I think that's the size
I want you to be.
Let's put you down
to one meal a day.
Billy, it
it might go faster if,
if I could exercise.
Maybe run a few miles
a day or...
[Billy huffs]
[hand slaps harshly]
[Kelsey winces]
I know you didn't grow up
with a good role model
of what a wife should be,
so I'm going to forgive
what you just did.
But in this house,
we do things right.
You understand that?
Good.
[snide chuckle]
You know what?
This actually might
be a good thing.
We get to make up for
the first time.
Huh?
Say you're sorry.
I'm sorry.
As long as you mean it,
that goes a long way with me.
You've earned this.
[paper bag crinkling]
The beginning of our
physical intimacy.
Our first kiss.
Let's get you minty fresh.
I want it to be perfect.
Open up.
Come on.
Uh...
[Kelsey gags]
- There you go.
[nail file rasping]
[Debbie]: What do you think?
Oh, much better.
But we have got to do something
about those cuticles.
Oh, when's the last time you
cleaned those things?
Oh, pfft, easy-peasy.
[matchbox rattles]
[chuckles]
[match snap]
What?
[laughs]
Very nice.
Very nice, Beth Byrd.
Hmm.
[blows out breath]
[piercing ringing]
- Oh. Ah!
You all right?
I still get a little
ringing in my ear
from your casserole incident.
How do you know about that?
Well, I was out for my
5 P.M. walk.
Right, your walk.
5 P.M., every day,
rain or shine.
And being outside,
I had the volume on my hearing
aids turned up
and I could hear your smoke
alarm down the block.
Oh, I'm sorry.
I can't believe that
I practically burned
this place down after working
so hard to hold on to it.
Have those developers from
the subdivision been by?
Turned away three offers
without even listening
to the price.
[Debbie]: I didn't travel back
and forth across the country
to wind up in a wheelchair
and a convalescent home.
At least now I can sleep
in my own bed.
Mom, why wouldn't you
at least hear
what they're offering?
- Oh, honey,
I learned a long time ago that
if you never listen
to the offer...
yer never tempted!
[both laugh]
Honey, you'll get all
this eventually.
Be patient.
In the meantime,
let me enjoy my house.
[annoyed exhale]
I'm gonna get outta here.
Hey, uh, what's happening
in the attic?
Excuse me?
Well, I mean, the lights are
on all hours of the day.
- Billy's turned it into a gym.
- Oh.
He's been working out
quite a bit.
[Mrs. Byrd]: Well, good for you!
Thanks.
Does he look any different
to you, at all?
Not at all.
But he seems calmer.
- Mm-hmm.
- So, I'm going along with it.
I think he used the money
for a gaming room.
[Mrs. Byrd sighs]
[attic door clunks open]
[Billy]: Good mornin', sunshine.
Good morning, Billy.
Did you sleep well?
No, Call of Duty
tournament went late
and then we ended up losing
in the final elimination anyway.
Hmm.
Well, I'm sure they only
even made it that far
because of you.
[chuckles]
You're learning.
Good.
Do you want to tell
me about it?
Yes, and I will,
but today's all about you.
We're going on a field trip.
[water rushing]
A few months ago,
my mother injured
her spinal cord
in a car accident.
Now, she goes to therapy
twice a week.
So, I figured it'd be a
good opportunity for a bath.
Let's get these things off you.
[ties rip]
[tape zips]
Not a word.
Not a sound.
You understand?
[gentle sinister music]
I've never given someone
a bath before.
How'd I do?
I know you feel exposed but
that's how we build trust.
I love how innocent you are.
I don't know how much
longer I can wait
to marry you.
[mailbox lid creaks]
[flyer crinkles]
[Debbie]: Billy!
[Billy]: You okay?
Yeah. Hold on a second,
I want to show you something.
Can it wait?
No, it cannot!
[annoyed exhale]
[Debbie breathing heavily]
Meet my new friend.
I call her B-r-r-r-idget.
Bridget?
It means "power, strength,
and vitality!"
It was either that or Eileen.
[laughs]
Anyway, I...
I couldn't wait to show you.
Well, really happy
for you, Mom. Seriously.
Who knows? Maybe by Christmas
I'll be climbing the stairs
to work out in your gym!
[chuckles]
Christmas?
Is that what they said?
They said it's possible.
Well, uh, fantastic.
[bag crashes]
Ah, flowers?
Oh, uh... you weren't supposed
to see that.
It was supposed to be
a bit of a surprise.
For what?
[clicks tongue]
- Your... walker.
Thought we could celebrate.
But you just
you just found out about that.
Well, I could tell it
was going well.
I'm trying to be
optimistic here.
[clock ticking]
Okay.
Sorry to ruin the surprise.
Just put 'em in the kitchen and
I'll uh, I'll put 'em in water.
You got it.
[ominous music]
[teary]: Mom, please,
if you can hear me, please help
me get out of here.
[sobbing]
Please, please, please, please.
[attic door clunks]
Please help me get out of here.
Honey, I'm home.
[Kelsey sobbing]
[Kelsey sniffles]
I need water, food.
Please.
That's how you're gonna
greet me?
[Kelsey sobbing]
I work very long days
to provide for you.
Buy us a house.
And this is what I come home to?
Not even a smile.
I'm sorry.
I'm beginning to think
this isn't working.
It's like you're
not even trying.
I just want to go home.
[sobs]
My dad
my dad is probably terrified.
Is that what you think?
It's time for a hard dose
of reality for you.
You gave me all your social
media passwords.
Your dad hasn't posted
anything about you.
He has been posting...
I screen grabbed
this the other day.
I was waiting for the right
moment to show you.
Who is that?
His new girlfriend.
He's moved on, Kelsey.
So should you.
[Kelsey sobbing]
Why don't you stay here
with a man who actually
cares about you?
Hey
you have one month to become
wife material.
You understand?
I have needs!
What if I can't do that?
Well, I'll send you home,
but to your mom.
Is that what you want?
No.
I can't hear you.
No, it's not what I want.
What do you want?
I want to be perfect for you.
That's better.
I'm sorry that you
had such a bad day.
Can you, can you please let
me make it up to you?
What did you have in mind?
Ah, that's it, just like that.
You're really getting
the hang of this.
See? This is how it should be.
You take care of me
here at home.
I take care of us out
in the world.
That's it.
Ah, a little more pressure,
kitten.
[Kelsey screams]
[thudding blow]
[Billy groans loudly]
Help! Help! Help!
[shrieking loudly]
[Billy grunting]
Billy? Did you call me?
[Kelsey gasping]
Billy: I treated you like
my wife,
and all you've done since
you've been here
is lie to me and try to escape.
Wives are supposed
to be obedient.
And you know who isn't?
Whores!
And from now, that's how
you're gonna be treated.
[gasping]
Sometimes obedience needs
to be imposed.
Billy, please,
I didn't mean to.
I should have done
this a long time ago.
[eerie music]
[Debbie]: Billy! Billy!
Billy!
Billy!
Jesus.
My pills.
I can't find my pills.
It's like you're getting
murdered or something.
They're all right here.
No, not those pills,
my arthritis pills.
They're supposed to be
in this caddy.
They're always in this caddy.
Well, I'm sure
they'll turn up.
Turn up?
We're not talking about
a missing set of keys, here.
I need these pills to
function, to live.
Oh, to live.
Come on, dramatic much?
[hand slams on counter]
I can't physically
move without them.
Do you get that?
Fine.
What do you want me to do?
Go back to bed.
Come on.
You don't seem to give
a damn about this
so don't worry about it.
- Mom...
- Go back upstairs.
I'm sorry it came out
that way.
I said leave me alone!
[Billy huffs]
Want some help?
No.
I didn't think it would get
this bad so quickly.
I can't believe the insurance
company didn't approve
your emergency prescription.
It was a new bottle.
Why would they?
Well, wait's almost over.
When does the renewal get here?
Week from Thursday.
Not that it matters.
All my progress is shot to hell.
Damn it.
Okay, here, let me help you.
[Debbie breathes deeply]
Okay.
Come on, open up.
[Debbie grunts]
Where are you going?
I'm not going to have you
start feeding me.
I'd rather starve.
[truck beeping]
[footsteps approaching]
[knock on door]
Can you open the door, please?
Hi.
[Driver]: Hi.
Hi. Can you open it
for me, please?
[Driver]: Sure.
Thank you. I've been waiting
all day for my...
- Here you are.
- Ah, my pills.
Thank you.
[laughs happily]
Thank you!
Thank you.
You're welcome.
[relieved sigh]
[packing paper crinkles]
[door opens]
[grocery store din]
[scanner beeps]
What?
[card declined error]
Hey buddy, declined.
What?
Hold on, I'm...
[Debbie]: I don't understand!
We've been paying
the mortgage on time.
This isn't about
the mortgage payments, Mom!
It's about the property tax.
You haven't paid them and
now they're gonna garnish
your disability checks.
So, you need to go down to
the bank and,
and transfer some money
from the savings!
There are no other savings!
How is that possible?!
Medical bills,
your physical therapy,
all-I of your medicine.
This stuff adds up, Mom!
Not to mention your
attic activities.
What's that supposed to mean?
You told me to build a gym
up there, okay?
Is that what you did?
Really?
You wanna see?
Come on, I'll take you up
there right now.
As a matter of fact,
I'll carry you.
Come here.
- No! No! Hold... , back off!
None of this changes the fact
that we could lose the house.
The house that I killed myself
to hang on to,
and what are you going
to do when that happens?
Pick up some overtime
or something.
I'll get a second job.
[computer keys clacking]
[deep exhale]
[seductive music]
[sighing heavily]
[shaky breaths]
[grunts]
Oh, there you are.
You seem chipper this morning.
Why wouldn't I be?
Good workout last night
in the gym?
Best so far.
I'm sure.
What's that supposed to mean?
It means, I know your secret.
My secret?
Wh-what are you talking about?
At first, I thought
my mind was playing tricks
on me all that time
you spent in the gym.
Even late at night.
But you still look the same.
Well, I'm doing a conditioning
thing.
It takes a little longer.
Then...
I thought that you used my money
for gaming equipment.
But what really gave it away
were the long hairs
I found in the shower
this morning.
Am I really that much
of an embarrassment
that you can't introduce me
to your girlfriend?
[clock ticking]
[stammers]
- I, I mean...
Relax, Romeo, you're an adult.
But I want to meet her.
Okay.
I'm not really sure how
serious it is.
If she's spending time
in my house, I want to meet her.
Sunday dinner, no arguments.
I'll make something special.
Okay.
Sunday.
Dinner.
Uh...
we'll be there.
I gotta get to work.
I'll uh, I'll be home later.
[door opens and shuts]
[Mrs. Byrd]: A girlfriend?
Well, what's her name?
What does she do?
He won't tell me!
He says they're not official.
But I insisted on meeting her
if they're gonna spend time
in this house.
She's been in your house
but you've never even met her?
I think he's sneaking her
in after I go to bed.
No, no, no.
This is your house.
You have the right to know
who's traipsing around in it
when you're sleeping.
- I know,
that's why she's coming
to dinner on Sunday.
What are you gonna do
if she doesn't show up?
[Billy]: I'm not lying.
People get sick.
Happens.
[Debbie]: So, prove it.
Doctor's note?
How about a photo?
A photo?
Tell her to send a photo
so I can see how sick
she really is.
[sighs]
- You're being ridiculous.
I wasn't born yesterday.
So, unless you can prove to me
that you have a real girlfriend
who happens to be sick,
I have to assume that
you're lying,
and I am going to find out why!
Okay, it's your life.
Waste it however you like.
[sighs]
[Billy]: Up, up, up.
There you go.
Okay. You still don't look
sick enough.
Here.
There we go.
[tissues rustling]
Okay.
There.
Hoo, should be a director.
What are we doing?
Tell you what?
Billy, please,
no more photo shoots.
The faster you do this,
the faster I'll let you eat.
Sound good?
Okay.
Now, sicker, like you've got
the flu or something.
Okay, now give me your hand.
Let's make this look
like a selfie.
There ya go.
Perfect.
I'm such an idiot.
[worrying music]
[tense music]
[chain rattles]
[strained exhale]
Ow!
[whimpers]
[boot clunks]
[grunting]
[Debbie grunting]
[phone clatters]
Oh!
[sighs]
[breathing nervously]
[sighs]
[leather rips]
[Debbie panting]
[panting]
What are you doing in my house?
Help! Help me!
Help me, please help me!
What the hell is going on?
Billy brought me here.
You...
you're the girlfriend.
Oh, what is this,
some sort of...
Fifty Shades role playing
or something?
You... you knew
about me?
Oh, my God.
Oh, my God.
Oh, oh, listen, honey, I...
I... honey, I don't
want any trouble, I...
[laughing]
I'll have a conversation with
Billy when he gets home,
but right now, you need
to get outta here.
[laughing]
You think I'm here on purpose?
On purpose?!
I have been trapped here since
the day your son drugged me
and threw me on this
disgusting, filthy mattress!
[Debbie exhales]
I don't believe that.
Does it look like
I want to be here?!
What
how, how did you meet Billy?
Was it on one of those
dating apps or something?
[sobbing]: No.
No.
I went for a run
and he pulled over
and asked me to help him look
for his lost dog.
And then he drugged me
and brought me here.
[whimpers]
When?
[sobbing]
July 22nd.
Three months ago?
July 22nd, 2023.
You've been here over a year?
[sobbing]
Can you please let me go?
I need to go home to my dad.
Yes.
Yes, of course.
What... how do I get you
out of here?
I don't know.
I don't, I don't know.
- I'm gonna call the cops.
- Yeah. Yes, yes.
Please, please.
- All right.
Oh, thank you.
- Oh.
- Where are you going?!
I dropped my phone
on the stairs
when I was coming up here.
I will go down there
and I will call,
and I will get you out of here.
Okay.
Okay. Please.
[Debbie breathing nervously]
[Billy]: Looking for this?
[Debbie]: Billy.
Ha.
Here, help me up.
Happy to.
[both grunt]
[Debbie crashes in chair]
Oh, damn it!
That really hurt, Billy.
Hey, hey, hey, give me my phone.
Why?
So you can call
the police on me?
Is that what you told
Kelsey you'd do?
Hmm?
[sinister music]
- Honey, what is going on?
What are you doing up there?
Now that you know
my real secret,
things are gonna change
around here.
[Debbie groans]
From now on, the chair
stays with me.
You don't move unless I say so.
Do you understand?
- You let that girl go, Billy.
She's just a kid!
What are you gonna
do about it?
You really think the police
are gonna believe
you didn't know she was here
the whole time?
Help! Help!! Somebody help!
- Who is that for?
- Help!
The neighbors aren't coming
to your rescue anymore.
Help!!
Hey, keep screaming,
I'll send them unhinged messages
from your phone after I convince
them you have dementia.
They'll feel bad for me
when they hear you screaming.
Do whatever you want to me,
Billy, but let that girl go.
I won't say anything to anyone.
We won't have to talk about it
ever again.
You are in no position to be
giving the orders.
[chair rumbling]
[Billy]: Sweet dreams, Debbie.
[door slams shut]
[Billy]: Good morning, sunshine.
Why the long face?
- Let me go!
[grunts]
Were you expecting the police?
Are you really that delusional?
[grunting]
My mother can't walk on her own.
I'm the last surviving family.
You really think...
You really think she was gonna
choose some whore
over her own son?
[grunts]
No!
You belong to me.
You understand?
You're my property
and nobody damages
my property but me.
What better way to start
your birthday than with a bang?
[sinister music]
October 22nd, right?
I'm 18.
Little less hot now that
you're legal, but
[belt thumps to floor]
we'll make it work.
[distant thumping]
[Debbie grunts]
[thuds to floor]
[grunting]
[Billy]: Hey! What the hell do
you think you're doing?
[Debbie gasps]
Why are you doing this?
You try to pull a stunt
like that again
and it's a pillow over your face
and I'm putting the house
on the market.
You understand?
[Mrs. Byrd]: Billy,
I haven't seen you for a while.
What are you doing here?
Installing some alarms.
Why? What happened?
[Billy sighs]
- Can you keep a secret?
Of course.
A few months back,
my mom was diagnosed
with early onset-dementia.
Last night, she snuck out of
the house in her nightgown.
Took me an hour to find her.
I had no idea.
Yeah, well, now if it happens
again, alarms will sound,
be able to get down
here right quick.
You take such good care
of your mother.
Thank you.
Appreciate that.
Yeah, my husband had dementia
at the end, but I mean,
I know how to deal with it.
Let me help you with your mom.
You know what? I think
she's a little embarrassed
by the whole thing.
I don't know if it'd
be a great idea.
I think she needs her friends.
She needs her dignity,
is what she needs.
All right.
But the second you decide
you need anything,
you call me and I will
be right over.
You got it.
Okay. Bye.
[Billy]: Once you're finished
with Mom, you can make us lunch.
What is she doing here?
What do you think?
We have our own live-in maid.
Kelsey just finished the house.
She's gonna help you shower.
No.
She... , I can take
care of myself.
Not without your walker
and your chair, you can't.
Let's make it quick.
Getting hungry.
[footsteps tap away]
[Kelsey]: You have to keep
your head back
or the water's going to get
in your eyes.
Shut up and don't tell
me what to do!
- I was just trying to...
- Shush, that was for his sake.
We have to get out of here.
What?
I want to help you.
No.
No, you want to test me.
You can report back to that
rapist son that you raised
I didn't take the bait.
- Listen to me.
The man outside that door
is not the son I raised.
I think that if we act like
we hate each other
give him more control.
I promise you I will try
to get you out of here
but you have to trust me.
[stammers]
[nature TV program plays
in background]
Oh, I, I'll be right back
with your drink.
What the hell is this?
The bun's not toasted.
You didn't toast the buns.
Toast them?
[Debbi]e: Do you not know
what that means?
Do you need a dictionary.
No, sorry, I'll,
I'll take care of it.
And don't let
the food get cold.
[sighs]
You know, it's actually
not a bad idea.
The food is cooked,
the house is clean.
This might be the best idea
you've ever had.
Coming around faster than
I thought you would.
Well, we both work so hard.
We deserve to enjoy this house.
You know what?
That we do.
Dad wasn't so bad.
He worked hard, too.
Was just under a lot of stress.
Don't I know it.
In the months before he died,
his insomnia was so bad.
You okay?
Yeah.
Better than okay.
This is how the other
half lives.
Pretty soon we'll be going to
the opera and the ballet.
Who wants to leave for that?
Kelsey!
[stun gun zapping]
Dance for us.
- What, what are you crazy?
What?
[stun gun zapping]
Picked it up the other day
in case there's any more
escape attempts.
Can you please put that away?
That's not necessary.
Come on.
Just having a bit of fun.
What's your problem?
Are you starting to
care about her?
No.
If you tase her,
she'll be worthless for
the rest of the day
and then what are gonna
do about dinner?
Good point.
Fine.
Just don't forget who makes
the rules here now.
[Kelsey breathing nervously]
[Debbie]: What are you doing
standing around?
The food is getting cold.
[annoyed sigh]
All right, Kelsey, it's time
to make yourself useful.
You are going to help my mother
with her hemorrhoid cream.
Well, get to it.
Come on.
I'm gonna be right on the other
side of that door.
And remember,
these are all alarmed.
No funny business.
Got it?
- Yes, Billy.
All right.
[door slams]
You needed help with
your cream?
I think I may have found
a way out
but we have to act quickly.
Tonight?
No, but soon.
My husband had terrible
insomnia.
His doctor prescribed
sleeping pills for him
that could take out an elephant.
Wait, I don't understand.
In the closet there should be
a black leather bag
that's hidden under
a million things.
I need you to get it
out for me, quickly.
Okay.
[door creaks open]
[Kelsey]: Is this it?
Yes.
Open the sides.
See if there's a prescription
bottle in there.
[pills rattle]
- There's only two pills.
- That's more than enough.
If we can knock Billy out
long enough,
we can use his phone
to call 911.
I'll keep these under
my pillow tonight.
Tomorrow sometime I need
you to get them
into the kitchen and hide them.
Okay, yeah, and then what?
Leave the rest to me.
I've got a birthday surprise
planned for him.
Now, give me your arm.
This cream will help
some of your scars.
Let me see your arm.
Oh.
I'm so sorry that
he did this to you.
[metallic screeching]
It looks ready.
Perfect.
Actually, the top of this
is a little uneven.
You'll have to slice it.
- Why?
'Cause if you don't,
the second tier will slide
right off.
Your mother never taught
you how to do this?
Her mom's dead.
Oh, I didn't know.
I'm sorry.
Anyway, leave the kitchen
to the birds.
I'll be in the living room.
[mutters]
Like that?
Looks good.
You can start icing it now.
Hey, Billy, remember
how much your dad
loved the Tom Collins
I would make him?
What do you think if I made
you one tonight?
Pass. Nothing goes better with
chicken fried steak than beer.
There's no way I can
fit those pills
into his beer bottle.
[shouts]: Hold the spatula
still and spin the cake.
[whispers]
Did you grind them?
Yes.
But the opening
is way too narrow.
What are you two whispering
about in there?
Allow your mother
a few surprises!
[whispers] Listen,
we'll figure it out.
But whatever you do,
you cannot panic.
Do you understand?
[sinister "Happy Birthday"
plays]
Mm, smells amazing.
Turns out this one
isn't completely useless
in the kitchen.
That's not the only room
she's useful in.
I... uh, I was...
She didn't want to spoil
the surprise.
I found your dad's
old beer mug and froze it.
Kelsey, pour the beer into
the mug slowly
and on an angle to keep
the head down.
[tense music]
[plastic crinkles]
Billy, do you remember
your birthday,
I think you were 12-years-old,
your dad and I didn't give you
your presents in the morning,
and you thought that we forgot?
[Billy]: Yeah, but when
I got home,
you had mounted that flat screen
TV on my wall.
[Debbie laughs]
He wasn't a bad gift giver.
[Debbie]: Mm-hmm.
What are you so nervous about?
Sit.
No.
I... I just want tonight to
be perfect for you.
Would you look at that?
Two and a half years
of training,
she finally gets it.
[chuckles uncomfortably]
[knock on door]
[Mrs. Byrd]: Hello?
It's Mrs. Byrd.
Is there anybody home?
Not a word or she dies.
[door knocker clangs]
- Mrs. Byrd.
- Hi.
Well, good evening.
[door shuts]
Uh, so is your mother home?
I... can I say hello?
Who's Mrs. Byrd?
C-c-can we trust her?
It's too risky.
He convinced a neighborhood
that I went nuts.
I... let's stick with
the plan.
Yeah, it's uh, not really
a good time right now
but maybe another night.
- Oh, okay.
Well, I remembered that it
was your birthday
and because you have done
so much to help your mother,
I wanted to get you
something special.
Thank you.
Oh, no, open it now.
I want to make sure you like it.
- Right now?
- Yes, please.
Okay.
Aged 18 years.
- Yes.
I know it's a good one
'cause my husband always used
to hide his
when we had company come.
That's very generous of you
but I'm gonna get back inside.
Don't like to leave her
alone too long.
Okay.
Um, well, happy birthday!
Good night!
Turns out I was wrong.
There is something that
goes better
with chicken friend steak.
[deep sigh]
What the hell is this?
You put something in my drink,
you bitch!
I knew it tasted funny.
No! No!
[Billy grunts angrily]
No! No, Billy!
Stop it! Stop it!
She had nothing to do with it.
I put a sleeping pill
in your mug
when Mrs. Byrd
came to the door.
Why would you do that?
Why? Heh.
[laughs]
Why? You want to know why?
Because, because you're holding
us prisoner!
This is insanity!
You think this is a prison?
You haven't seen anything yet.
Kelsey, get Mom's pills!
No.
No. No, no, no, no, you
can't do that.
I won't be able to move!
You have been more trouble
than you're worth.
The only reason
you're still alive
is because of your disability
checks.
Don't forget that.
I'm not gonna ask again
or I'm gonna put you in
a chair too.
No, no, no!
No! No!
No, no, please!
Don't! Don't do this!
[sobbing]
[toilet flushes]
[computer keys clacking]
Hey, come here.
[sighs]
What do you think of her?
Who, who is she?
A replacement.
[sinister beat]
Relax.
You're not going anywhere.
You know everything I like
and you can teach it to her.
All right, no more standing
around.
Go make the bed.
[keys clacking]
[Kelsey breathing nervously]
What's a good opening line
for a teenage girl?
What?
Wait, I got it.
[pills rattling]
[ominous music building]
[gentle music]
Billy, this needs to stop.
You're torturing her.
She has food and a comfortable
place to stay.
Doesn't sound like any torture
I'm aware of.
Please.
I will do anything you
want me to.
[huffs]
- You already do.
But it's good that
you're saying this.
I know what I'm capable of
if somebody tries to betray me.
Is it gonna take much longer?
All that research this afternoon
got my motor running.
She needs to finish eating.
[Billy sighs]
I'm gonna grab a beer.
Be done by the time
I'm finished.
[pills rattling]
I found your arthritis pills.
They were under
Billy's mattress.
It's a 28-day supply.
I tore the house apart
looking for those.
He's looking to bring
another girl here.
She's even younger than I was.
We have to get out of here.
I know.
Let's get your strength
up first, okay?
[pills rattling]
[breathing nervously]
You ready?
Didn't think you'd sit in
that chair again, did you?
I will say, I'm glad the moaning
finally toned down.
I'm impressed considering
what a victim
you always loved playing.
[Billy]: You all done in there?
Yeah. Uh, everything but
the laundry.
Good.
Get started on some
food after that.
We'll have to get your
energy up.
Got a big day clearing
out the attic.
The new one will be here soon.
Okay, help me get her up.
All right, ready?
- Mm-hmm.
Okay.
[Debbie flops in chair]
- Ow!
When was the last time you
trimmed her nails?
Chop, chop, we don't
have all day.
I've got a lot of work
to do upstairs.
I'm not done filing yet.
You're kidding me, right?
Look at her.
She's practically a vegetable.
Leave her for now.
Let's go.
[hand clunks on tray]
[leading music]
[Mrs. Byrd]: I had the volume on
my hearing aids turned up.
And I could hear your smoke
alarm down the block.
5 P.M. every day,
rain or shine.
[nail polish remover splashing]
[match snaps]
Ooh.
[fire hissing]
[smoke detector beeping]
- Oh, ah!
Ooh.
[knock on door]
Debbie!
[pounding on door]
Debbie!
Debbie!
[911 Operator]: 911.
- I need to report an emergency.
[tense music]
There's a, there's
a girl in the attic.
[Officer]: There's someone
in the attic?
One of you come with me now.
In the house! Let's go!
You take this floor.
I'm heading upstairs.
[police radio chatter]
[sirens blaring]
[stun gun zapping]
[Billy shrieks]
[chain rattles]
[Kelsey moaning]
[muffled shouting]
He went out the window!
He went out the window!
Go to the window!
He went out the window!
[Billy panting]
[Taser clacking]
[Billy grunts]
I'm just trying to get as far
away from that house as I can!
They're holding me
prisoner there!
[Billy grunting]
[sirens wailing]
[door clangs shut]
[gentle music]
[Kelsey]: I can't believe
they're letting me go home
so soon.
[Sofia]: Yeah, well, you're
one tough bitch, so.
Sorry, Mr. Romano.
- That's all right.
Honestly, Dad, you did
not have to come walk me
the whole way.
I will walk with
you anywhere, anytime,
and as much as you'll let me.
[Kelsey chuckles softly]
And you, you did not have
to come home,
all the way from Sacramento.
Uh, we looked for you
for two years,
six months, and 23 days.
Yeah, I was coming back.
[chuckles]
You look so grown up.
I really missed you.
Well, you don't need to worry
about that again
because you are never getting
out of my sight.
Well, you'll have to compete
with me for that one.
[Sofia laughs]
Kels? Are you okay?
You want me to get a doctor?
- No, I... I...
Yeah, what's up?
I, I can't leave without
saying goodbye.
[Kelsey]: I just,
I can't believe you set fire
to your own home.
Billy always said it was
the thing in the world
you were proudest of.
I wasn't doing a lot of living
in that house anyway.
And I knew that Beth Byrd would
hear that smoke alarm
and call 911 right away.
What? It was all a set-up?
Digging your nails into
Billy's arm and...
Yeah.
Well, he had to think that
the manicure was his idea.
That boy may be a lot of things
but he is not stupid.
You saved my life.
No.
You saved my life.
If you hadn't gotten me
those pills,
I never could have done this.
[Kelsey sniffles]
Well, how are you feeling now?
[teary exhale]
Seeing you walk around free
makes me feel good.
They're still treating me
for malnourishment but I...
I'm clear to go home.
What are you going
to do first?
[chuckles]
Well...
I got a reason to try
even when it don't feel right
[uplifting music]
When I'm lost in my mind
And I'm running out of time
[smart watch]: Mile 20 complete.
...When the fear is taking
hold, hold
Let it go, go
Gotta fight back
Toss and turn, no sleep
Thinking about my dream
Or what it could be
If I just keep my head down
Someday we will see
This was meant to be
One great victory
Beautiful things are
just about to happen
Beautiful things are
just about to happen
[smart watch]: Mile one complete.
Because we're glorious
We are victorious
We're never going down
We're never getting old
Because we're glorious
We are...
[uplifting music continues]
[grunting]
[exhausted exhale]
[grunting continues]
[loud thud]
[nervous panting]
- You're okay.
- Ah, wait.
No, I can't, I can't.
- You can.
- It freaks me out.
- You just have to relax.
Or, why don't I just
do it without makeup?
Because when you look more
gorgeous, you make more money.
Oh, Sofia, you can't say that.
That is so messed up.
Okay, don't blame
me, blame like... science.
I'm just trying to help you.
Oh, science?
Really?
- Mm-hmmm.
- You failed science.
Okay.
[both laugh]
Let's just remember why
we're doing this.
Okay, just do it.
Okay, so don't look
at my hand.
Don't look at the wand.
- Okay.
Focus on a spot on
the ceiling as hard as you can,
and it'll be over before
you know it.
Chin down.
Blink.
Blink.
Blink.
And we'll do the other side.
And blink.
Blink.
Gorgeous. Okay.
What do you think?
Superstar?
[giggles]
Can I go? Yeah.
Hi, everyone, um, my name
is Kelsey Romano
and this is my mom...
Lisa.
[tender music]
We
we actually made this frame at
a craft fair together.
She's always so good at coming
up with fun things for us to do.
Um,
but three months ago,
after a long battle,
she died of breast cancer.
Um...
[whispers inaudibly]
[Kelsey exhales]
The only agonizing,
opposite of fun,
thing she liked to do was run.
And I always hated when
she would ask me
to go on runs with her.
But this summer,
the Breast Cancer Awareness
Foundation is sponsoring
a charity half marathon,
right here in the city,
and I determined to run it,
for my mom.
So, over the next six months,
I will be posting
my updates, um,
keeping you guys posted,
and please consider
making donations,
if you can.
Even a dollar helps.
Um...
Social media.
Oh, yes, and you can find
all my information
on my social media.
Okay, thanks guys.
I'll see you out there.
Okay, one-take wonder.
[both laugh]
- Was that fine?
- Yeah, it's great.
- Okay.
[birds chirping]
[Kelsey]: Dad, I can't
do this anymore.
Oh, are you seriously
telling me
two blocks on your first mile
you're gonna call it quits?
Just like that? Come on.
No, Dad, I'm so serious.
My whole body is aching.
I'm gonna puke, I'm gonna puke.
Oh, come on, Kels.
[Kelsey moans]
If we want to get anywhere in
this life,
we gotta develop mental
toughness.
It's just your mind
saying you can't.
Ignore it.
And if my mind is right
and I just expire right here?
Well, then you don't gotta
run no more.
- Ha, ha.
- Come on, let's get home,
you can get on that social
media app you love so much,
and you can tell everyone how
wonderful you're doing.
[Kelsey groans]
[Sofia sighs]
- Dude, we have to go.
The movie starts in 15 minutes.
Uh, no, the half an hour
of previews
they play before the movie
starts is in 15 minutes.
You don't need to respond
to everyone
who donates or writes
a message to you.
These people are taking time
out of their day to help me.
It's the least I can do.
Here look.
You're already at $5,000?!
Shh! Shh!
Why?
This is amazing!
I haven't told my dad yet.
I want to surprise him.
Okay.
But still, then we should
still celebrate.
No, what we need to do
is make another video.
[Sofia grumbles]
So, I just did my first mile.
It was horrible.
I have no idea how
I'm gonna do 13,
but the experts on my app say
if I stick to the plan, I will.
So...
- Oh, she's cute.
Yeah, she's one of the drama
students at the high school
I used to teach at part time.
You teach part time?
Sure, yeah.
After I got back from
New York, you know.
Gotta do your part
where you can.
[Manager]: Billy?
Do a face out pass.
Yeah.
Be there in a jiff.
[scoffs]
[app chimes]
Hey, Billy!
Mrs. Byrd!
How is everything
at the house?
Great.
Why wouldn't it be?
Well, I just worry
about your mom.
I mean, I've known her
a long time.
And you know, she used
to be so active.
And now
stuck in that chair?
I mean, it would bring
me to tears.
But you are so wonderful
to come back here
and take care of her.
Well, just
'til the physio ends.
[piercing screech]
- Ah, God, ah, sorry.
You okay?
Oh, it's just these
damn hearing aids.
They give me such
horrendous feedback.
That's not your hearing aids.
That's coming from my house.
[smoke detector screeching
loudly]
Mom!
[pan thuds in sink]
Mom!
[grunting]
[Billy]: Mom?
I'm here!
[grumbles]
Hey, hey, what happened?
How long have you been
like this?
I'm stuck,
if you can believe it.
Can you help me?
[grunts]
[door creaks]
- I'm sorry, Billy.
What are you apologizing for?
I hate being an invalid.
I pushed myself too hard.
I was feeling wobbly but...
I just had to go to
the bathroom.
I couldn't wait for you
to get home.
All right, can you feel
everything okay?
Dinner's ruined.
I tried to surprise you.
Oh, it's okay.
We can make cereal or something.
No, no, no, no.
Go get $20 out of my purse
and go get some burgers.
My treat.
But you were saying that um...
Don't argue with your mother.
All right.
First get me the hell
outta here.
[money rustles]
Thanks, Mom.
I'm going out!
[upbeat electronic music]
[phone pings]
Hi guys, it's Kelsey, again.
Um, I just wanted to update
you guys on my plans
for this weekend's run...
[car starts]
[footsteps shuffle]
Hey.
You okay?
Mrs. Byrd dropped off
my Costco order
and I thought I had
enough money to pay her.
And you're looking for it
in the couch cushions?
How much did you take out?
Twenty dollars,
like you told me.
Where's the other 40 I had?
There was no other money.
But you took $60 out
of the bank for me.
I haven't touched it
and nobody else
has been in the house except
for you and the cleaning lady.
Mom, I went to the bank
for you two weeks ago.
No, it was Monday.
The doctor said
short-term memory
might be a bit of an issue
after the accident.
[Debbie scoffs]
Look...
Okay, today's the 16th.
I went to the bank
for you on the 3rd.
Well, I guess things are
worse than I thought.
I know my body, I'm a dancer.
I was a dancer.
Hey.
It's okay.
I'm here.
My sweet boy.
[chuckles softly]
If you're gonna be stuck here
with me, your old mom,
then you should at least get
out and have some fun.
You're so handsome.
[exhales]
Find some young beauty
to take out.
That's not really what
I'm focused on right now.
Hmm.
So, how about a gym?
You used to love working out.
I can't do that.
I'm always at work.
If I'm not, I'm here,
watching you.
Your dad's old workout
equipment is up there.
Buried under some stuff.
I'll even give you
a little bit of money.
Fix it up.
Okay.
I like that idea.
Good.
[sighs]
Let's eat.
Oh, I actually ate
mine in the car.
I don't really like it
when it gets cold.
But uh, I'll keep you company.
You're my boy.
Come on.
[Billy grunting]
[ominous music]
[Male Podcaster]: And bro,
you know what?
We've given up on nature.
Women today wait too long
to get married,
and by then,
their minds are corrupted
by the false promises
of feminism.
[fringe clatters]
The simple fact is
that young women
do not know what they want,
let alone what they need.
[grunting exhales]
Hey, hey, hey,
don't throw that away.
That's my memory trunk.
[Billy scoffs]
- You wanna hold on to this?
Yeah.
[tender music]
[latches creak]
Forgotten about this.
[Debbie grunts]
[sighs happily]
[gasps]
This is when I played Vegas.
[giggles]
Oh, my gosh.
[gasps]
This is when I was in
the national tour
of "A Chorus Line".
You were away a lot.
Hey, hey!
[Billy grumbles]
I had to be.
Your father was a wonderful man
but he wasn't much
of a provider.
[annoyed exhale]
And when my mom left us
this house,
the property taxes were crazy,
and if I hadn't worked,
you would have not had
a home to grow up in.
Hang on to it.
And we'll go through it later.
Might want to hang some
of the pictures
on the wall of my room.
- All right.
Well, I'll keep it in
the attic for ya.
Pretty sure there's room.
[trunk clunks]
[grunting exhales]
[trunk thuds]
[phone pings]
[Kelsey[: Hi, guys!
Uh, just an update.
I am happy to report I am
ahead in my training schedule.
[Frank]: Yes, if we pour
the foundation by Friday,
the timeline works.
[Kelsey]: Good morning.
- Okay, gotta.
Kells Bells, big breakfast,
then I drive you to the gym.
Dad, come on.
Did you forget?
Forget what?
I'm running my first
10 mile today.
Not on your own, you're not.
It's our usual training.
Come on, we'll do it together.
Dad, I can't do that.
Everybody's expecting
me to do this.
I will be home before noon.
Besides, isn't this a good
test of my mental toughness?
Goodbye.
[birds chirping]
[panting]
Oh. Okay.
[phone chiming]
[Man]: Hey, excuse me?
You seen a golden retriever
running around?
[Kelsey]: No, sorry.
I didn't check before I opened
the door and he ran off.
He's not trained yet.
My five-year-old's already
obsessed with him,
so I'm trying to find him before
she gets out of camp.
Okay, well,
I'll keep my eyes open.
Hey wait...
Aren't you that girl
who's running for charity?
Yeah, I am.
I've seen your posts online.
Actually used to go to
Lincoln High myself.
Well, hey, wait a sec,
maybe I could show you this
flyer really quick,
just in case you see him later.
Uh... s-sure.
Where are the flyers?
Huh.
Must have left them
at the Kinko's.
Do you wanna grab a drink?
You look like you could
use a drink.
Yeah, I've been running.
I gotta go.
[ominous music]
[Billy]: No, no, no.
This can't be happening.
Hey, what's going on?
I thought you had physical
therapy?
[Debbie]: Oh, the heater broke
and they closed early,
and my ride care couldn't come
for an hour.
Yeah, and she couldn't get
hold of you so she called me.
Tell him your good news, Debbie.
Oh, where did you run off to
so early this morning?
Well, what's the good news?
Um, well, I...
it's no big deal.
[Mrs. Byrd]: No big deal.
She walked two steps.
[Debbie]: With a walker.
[Mrs. Byrd]: It's still
progress!
And your physical therapist
said if you keep up
with your exercises,
you could be out of this chair
within six months.
[hands clap]
Six months?
Really?
You okay?
Yeah, fantastic.
Here, come inside,
I'll make you sandwiches.
Wait, wait, wait, that...
I feel like we should celebrate.
Well, that's why we're here.
We're gonna go inside
and have a nice lunch.
I'll tell you what?
Why don't you guys
on me?
How's that?
And they have Margaritas.
It's barely noon!
Oh, it's perfect!
Gives me a chance to sober
up before my five.
Right, your walk.
5 P.M., every day,
rain or shine.
Rain or shine!
[Mrs. Byrd]: Let's go!
- Well, have fun, ladies.
[wheels rumbling]
[grunting exhales]
There you go.
You're finally home.
Now we can start
our lives together.
[sinister music]
[Kelsey whimpers softly]
[panicked breathing]
Help! Help me!
[shrieking loudly]
Help me! Help!!
Help! Help!
Help me! Help!
[loud rock music blaring]
[Kelsey continues shrieking]
[Kelsey]: Help! Help! Help me!
Help!
Help!
Kelsey! Kels!
It's Sofia!
Yell if you can hear me!
Kelsey!
[call dials]
[phone ringing in distance]
[sinister music]
[Kelsey sobbing]
It's just a dream.
It's just a dream.
Oh, wake up, wake up, wake up.
[Billy]: You're finally awake,
sleepyhead.
[shaky breathing]
What is this?
Where am I?
You're home.
What are you talking about?
Let me go!
Oh, I plan to.
When?
So many questions.
You
y-you, you're that guy,
with the, with the lost dog.
[mumbles indistinctly]
That's the last thing
I remember.
What did you do to me?
[Billy]: Relax, Kelsey.
Now is the time you
can put aside
everything that's ever made you
anxious, or-or-or upset.
How do you know my name?
[scoffs]
I know a lot more about
you than that.
From your posts, remember?
I made a project of you.
My clothes.
It's
am I still a virgin?
[sighs]
- You poor thing.
No, I didn't touch you.
I need my wife to be pure.
[nervous inhale]
Your wife?
You think we're married?
Not yet.
You have to earn that privilege.
And what if I don't want it?
Well, then you
can stay up here.
My wife, on the other hand,
will live in a big,
beautiful house with me.
Have a family.
Dinners together.
Vacations.
Would you like that?
I don't want to stay up here.
So, you'll be my wife?
[whimpers]
[sighs]
Good.
Then I'm gonna need to know
I can trust you.
[notebook thwacks]
- Ow.
Start with your social
media passwords.
[whimpering]
[footsteps thud away]
[floorboard creaks]
[rope creaking]
We finished combing every
inch of the woods
within a five mile radius
of where Kelsey's phone
was located.
And the good news is,
we didn't find any blood
or other signs of foul play.
You ever try to take
a teenager's phone from them?
They will fight you to
the death for it.
So, forgive me if
I don't believe you
that there's no foul play.
She may have been abducted,
or she may have run away.
Run away? No, not Kelsey.
No way.
Listen, I'm sorry,
I'm going to have to ask you,
was everything okay at home?
Yeah.
Yeah, it was good.
I mean
it's been tough since her
mom has been gone
but she seemed good, right?
Yeah.
Were you two fighting
more than usual?
More than usual?
No, we don't fight.
Kelsey's a great kid.
Look...
I'd push her to get good grades
and always do her best.
But I'm supposed to do that,
right?
I mean, I'm her dad, right?
Soph, is there something going
on with Kelsey
that I don't know about?
Soph, I'm desperate here!
If you got some information,
you need to tell us!
Would you rather speak
to me alone?
No.
No, um...
Kelsey just didn't want you
to know
but she's been raising money
online for the half-marathon.
On-online?
Where?
Just like, on social media.
She would post her running
experiences and stuff.
Okay.
Yesterday before she left,
she said she had to do her
first 10-mile run
because everyone was watching.
That's what she meant?
Did she tell people where
she'd be running, Sofia?
Sometimes.
But it was, like, mostly
for, like, tips,
and encouragement, and stuff.
I mean, she's raised
almost $10,000.
I don't believe this.
She-she wanted to do
something really big
for her mom and it was supposed
to be a surprise.
I'm so sorry.
Okay.
I'm going to need to know
every app and all her usernames,
and then we can start
by checking out
her male followers in the area.
Okay, I'm-I'm gonna drive
around the neighborhood.
[engine rumbling]
[door shuts]
[police car rumbles away]
Mom!
[Debbie]: Yes?
[Billy]: What the hell's
going on?
Well, hello to you too.
Why is there a cop outside?
I'm fine.
Everything's fine,
which you would know if you
answered the phone.
I've been trying to call you...
What happened?
After the cleaning girl left,
I checked my purse
and I was missing $36.
You called the police
for that?
This is the third time
my money's gone missing
on cleaning days.
Well, did you mention
to the detective
you have memory problems?
Because this has been
an issue before.
No, I know, I know,
and since the last time
you mentioned that,
I have been keeping a notebook
with all my cash expenses.
Every last cent.
[Billy exhales]
Well, what now?
Should I be expecting to see
more cops around?
Well, what does that matter?
Why do you care?
Because, okay?
I was worried about you.
Hey, hey, hey, hey.
Come here.
[Billy exhales]
You're not rid of me yet.
[Billy exhales sharply]
[gentle ominous music]
[staple gun clunking]
[Billy grunts]
I thought that dress might
be a little tight.
But I think that's the size
I want you to be.
Let's put you down
to one meal a day.
Billy, it
it might go faster if,
if I could exercise.
Maybe run a few miles
a day or...
[Billy huffs]
[hand slaps harshly]
[Kelsey winces]
I know you didn't grow up
with a good role model
of what a wife should be,
so I'm going to forgive
what you just did.
But in this house,
we do things right.
You understand that?
Good.
[snide chuckle]
You know what?
This actually might
be a good thing.
We get to make up for
the first time.
Huh?
Say you're sorry.
I'm sorry.
As long as you mean it,
that goes a long way with me.
You've earned this.
[paper bag crinkling]
The beginning of our
physical intimacy.
Our first kiss.
Let's get you minty fresh.
I want it to be perfect.
Open up.
Come on.
Uh...
[Kelsey gags]
- There you go.
[nail file rasping]
[Debbie]: What do you think?
Oh, much better.
But we have got to do something
about those cuticles.
Oh, when's the last time you
cleaned those things?
Oh, pfft, easy-peasy.
[matchbox rattles]
[chuckles]
[match snap]
What?
[laughs]
Very nice.
Very nice, Beth Byrd.
Hmm.
[blows out breath]
[piercing ringing]
- Oh. Ah!
You all right?
I still get a little
ringing in my ear
from your casserole incident.
How do you know about that?
Well, I was out for my
5 P.M. walk.
Right, your walk.
5 P.M., every day,
rain or shine.
And being outside,
I had the volume on my hearing
aids turned up
and I could hear your smoke
alarm down the block.
Oh, I'm sorry.
I can't believe that
I practically burned
this place down after working
so hard to hold on to it.
Have those developers from
the subdivision been by?
Turned away three offers
without even listening
to the price.
[Debbie]: I didn't travel back
and forth across the country
to wind up in a wheelchair
and a convalescent home.
At least now I can sleep
in my own bed.
Mom, why wouldn't you
at least hear
what they're offering?
- Oh, honey,
I learned a long time ago that
if you never listen
to the offer...
yer never tempted!
[both laugh]
Honey, you'll get all
this eventually.
Be patient.
In the meantime,
let me enjoy my house.
[annoyed exhale]
I'm gonna get outta here.
Hey, uh, what's happening
in the attic?
Excuse me?
Well, I mean, the lights are
on all hours of the day.
- Billy's turned it into a gym.
- Oh.
He's been working out
quite a bit.
[Mrs. Byrd]: Well, good for you!
Thanks.
Does he look any different
to you, at all?
Not at all.
But he seems calmer.
- Mm-hmm.
- So, I'm going along with it.
I think he used the money
for a gaming room.
[Mrs. Byrd sighs]
[attic door clunks open]
[Billy]: Good mornin', sunshine.
Good morning, Billy.
Did you sleep well?
No, Call of Duty
tournament went late
and then we ended up losing
in the final elimination anyway.
Hmm.
Well, I'm sure they only
even made it that far
because of you.
[chuckles]
You're learning.
Good.
Do you want to tell
me about it?
Yes, and I will,
but today's all about you.
We're going on a field trip.
[water rushing]
A few months ago,
my mother injured
her spinal cord
in a car accident.
Now, she goes to therapy
twice a week.
So, I figured it'd be a
good opportunity for a bath.
Let's get these things off you.
[ties rip]
[tape zips]
Not a word.
Not a sound.
You understand?
[gentle sinister music]
I've never given someone
a bath before.
How'd I do?
I know you feel exposed but
that's how we build trust.
I love how innocent you are.
I don't know how much
longer I can wait
to marry you.
[mailbox lid creaks]
[flyer crinkles]
[Debbie]: Billy!
[Billy]: You okay?
Yeah. Hold on a second,
I want to show you something.
Can it wait?
No, it cannot!
[annoyed exhale]
[Debbie breathing heavily]
Meet my new friend.
I call her B-r-r-r-idget.
Bridget?
It means "power, strength,
and vitality!"
It was either that or Eileen.
[laughs]
Anyway, I...
I couldn't wait to show you.
Well, really happy
for you, Mom. Seriously.
Who knows? Maybe by Christmas
I'll be climbing the stairs
to work out in your gym!
[chuckles]
Christmas?
Is that what they said?
They said it's possible.
Well, uh, fantastic.
[bag crashes]
Ah, flowers?
Oh, uh... you weren't supposed
to see that.
It was supposed to be
a bit of a surprise.
For what?
[clicks tongue]
- Your... walker.
Thought we could celebrate.
But you just
you just found out about that.
Well, I could tell it
was going well.
I'm trying to be
optimistic here.
[clock ticking]
Okay.
Sorry to ruin the surprise.
Just put 'em in the kitchen and
I'll uh, I'll put 'em in water.
You got it.
[ominous music]
[teary]: Mom, please,
if you can hear me, please help
me get out of here.
[sobbing]
Please, please, please, please.
[attic door clunks]
Please help me get out of here.
Honey, I'm home.
[Kelsey sobbing]
[Kelsey sniffles]
I need water, food.
Please.
That's how you're gonna
greet me?
[Kelsey sobbing]
I work very long days
to provide for you.
Buy us a house.
And this is what I come home to?
Not even a smile.
I'm sorry.
I'm beginning to think
this isn't working.
It's like you're
not even trying.
I just want to go home.
[sobs]
My dad
my dad is probably terrified.
Is that what you think?
It's time for a hard dose
of reality for you.
You gave me all your social
media passwords.
Your dad hasn't posted
anything about you.
He has been posting...
I screen grabbed
this the other day.
I was waiting for the right
moment to show you.
Who is that?
His new girlfriend.
He's moved on, Kelsey.
So should you.
[Kelsey sobbing]
Why don't you stay here
with a man who actually
cares about you?
Hey
you have one month to become
wife material.
You understand?
I have needs!
What if I can't do that?
Well, I'll send you home,
but to your mom.
Is that what you want?
No.
I can't hear you.
No, it's not what I want.
What do you want?
I want to be perfect for you.
That's better.
I'm sorry that you
had such a bad day.
Can you, can you please let
me make it up to you?
What did you have in mind?
Ah, that's it, just like that.
You're really getting
the hang of this.
See? This is how it should be.
You take care of me
here at home.
I take care of us out
in the world.
That's it.
Ah, a little more pressure,
kitten.
[Kelsey screams]
[thudding blow]
[Billy groans loudly]
Help! Help! Help!
[shrieking loudly]
[Billy grunting]
Billy? Did you call me?
[Kelsey gasping]
Billy: I treated you like
my wife,
and all you've done since
you've been here
is lie to me and try to escape.
Wives are supposed
to be obedient.
And you know who isn't?
Whores!
And from now, that's how
you're gonna be treated.
[gasping]
Sometimes obedience needs
to be imposed.
Billy, please,
I didn't mean to.
I should have done
this a long time ago.
[eerie music]
[Debbie]: Billy! Billy!
Billy!
Billy!
Jesus.
My pills.
I can't find my pills.
It's like you're getting
murdered or something.
They're all right here.
No, not those pills,
my arthritis pills.
They're supposed to be
in this caddy.
They're always in this caddy.
Well, I'm sure
they'll turn up.
Turn up?
We're not talking about
a missing set of keys, here.
I need these pills to
function, to live.
Oh, to live.
Come on, dramatic much?
[hand slams on counter]
I can't physically
move without them.
Do you get that?
Fine.
What do you want me to do?
Go back to bed.
Come on.
You don't seem to give
a damn about this
so don't worry about it.
- Mom...
- Go back upstairs.
I'm sorry it came out
that way.
I said leave me alone!
[Billy huffs]
Want some help?
No.
I didn't think it would get
this bad so quickly.
I can't believe the insurance
company didn't approve
your emergency prescription.
It was a new bottle.
Why would they?
Well, wait's almost over.
When does the renewal get here?
Week from Thursday.
Not that it matters.
All my progress is shot to hell.
Damn it.
Okay, here, let me help you.
[Debbie breathes deeply]
Okay.
Come on, open up.
[Debbie grunts]
Where are you going?
I'm not going to have you
start feeding me.
I'd rather starve.
[truck beeping]
[footsteps approaching]
[knock on door]
Can you open the door, please?
Hi.
[Driver]: Hi.
Hi. Can you open it
for me, please?
[Driver]: Sure.
Thank you. I've been waiting
all day for my...
- Here you are.
- Ah, my pills.
Thank you.
[laughs happily]
Thank you!
Thank you.
You're welcome.
[relieved sigh]
[packing paper crinkles]
[door opens]
[grocery store din]
[scanner beeps]
What?
[card declined error]
Hey buddy, declined.
What?
Hold on, I'm...
[Debbie]: I don't understand!
We've been paying
the mortgage on time.
This isn't about
the mortgage payments, Mom!
It's about the property tax.
You haven't paid them and
now they're gonna garnish
your disability checks.
So, you need to go down to
the bank and,
and transfer some money
from the savings!
There are no other savings!
How is that possible?!
Medical bills,
your physical therapy,
all-I of your medicine.
This stuff adds up, Mom!
Not to mention your
attic activities.
What's that supposed to mean?
You told me to build a gym
up there, okay?
Is that what you did?
Really?
You wanna see?
Come on, I'll take you up
there right now.
As a matter of fact,
I'll carry you.
Come here.
- No! No! Hold... , back off!
None of this changes the fact
that we could lose the house.
The house that I killed myself
to hang on to,
and what are you going
to do when that happens?
Pick up some overtime
or something.
I'll get a second job.
[computer keys clacking]
[deep exhale]
[seductive music]
[sighing heavily]
[shaky breaths]
[grunts]
Oh, there you are.
You seem chipper this morning.
Why wouldn't I be?
Good workout last night
in the gym?
Best so far.
I'm sure.
What's that supposed to mean?
It means, I know your secret.
My secret?
Wh-what are you talking about?
At first, I thought
my mind was playing tricks
on me all that time
you spent in the gym.
Even late at night.
But you still look the same.
Well, I'm doing a conditioning
thing.
It takes a little longer.
Then...
I thought that you used my money
for gaming equipment.
But what really gave it away
were the long hairs
I found in the shower
this morning.
Am I really that much
of an embarrassment
that you can't introduce me
to your girlfriend?
[clock ticking]
[stammers]
- I, I mean...
Relax, Romeo, you're an adult.
But I want to meet her.
Okay.
I'm not really sure how
serious it is.
If she's spending time
in my house, I want to meet her.
Sunday dinner, no arguments.
I'll make something special.
Okay.
Sunday.
Dinner.
Uh...
we'll be there.
I gotta get to work.
I'll uh, I'll be home later.
[door opens and shuts]
[Mrs. Byrd]: A girlfriend?
Well, what's her name?
What does she do?
He won't tell me!
He says they're not official.
But I insisted on meeting her
if they're gonna spend time
in this house.
She's been in your house
but you've never even met her?
I think he's sneaking her
in after I go to bed.
No, no, no.
This is your house.
You have the right to know
who's traipsing around in it
when you're sleeping.
- I know,
that's why she's coming
to dinner on Sunday.
What are you gonna do
if she doesn't show up?
[Billy]: I'm not lying.
People get sick.
Happens.
[Debbie]: So, prove it.
Doctor's note?
How about a photo?
A photo?
Tell her to send a photo
so I can see how sick
she really is.
[sighs]
- You're being ridiculous.
I wasn't born yesterday.
So, unless you can prove to me
that you have a real girlfriend
who happens to be sick,
I have to assume that
you're lying,
and I am going to find out why!
Okay, it's your life.
Waste it however you like.
[sighs]
[Billy]: Up, up, up.
There you go.
Okay. You still don't look
sick enough.
Here.
There we go.
[tissues rustling]
Okay.
There.
Hoo, should be a director.
What are we doing?
Tell you what?
Billy, please,
no more photo shoots.
The faster you do this,
the faster I'll let you eat.
Sound good?
Okay.
Now, sicker, like you've got
the flu or something.
Okay, now give me your hand.
Let's make this look
like a selfie.
There ya go.
Perfect.
I'm such an idiot.
[worrying music]
[tense music]
[chain rattles]
[strained exhale]
Ow!
[whimpers]
[boot clunks]
[grunting]
[Debbie grunting]
[phone clatters]
Oh!
[sighs]
[breathing nervously]
[sighs]
[leather rips]
[Debbie panting]
[panting]
What are you doing in my house?
Help! Help me!
Help me, please help me!
What the hell is going on?
Billy brought me here.
You...
you're the girlfriend.
Oh, what is this,
some sort of...
Fifty Shades role playing
or something?
You... you knew
about me?
Oh, my God.
Oh, my God.
Oh, oh, listen, honey, I...
I... honey, I don't
want any trouble, I...
[laughing]
I'll have a conversation with
Billy when he gets home,
but right now, you need
to get outta here.
[laughing]
You think I'm here on purpose?
On purpose?!
I have been trapped here since
the day your son drugged me
and threw me on this
disgusting, filthy mattress!
[Debbie exhales]
I don't believe that.
Does it look like
I want to be here?!
What
how, how did you meet Billy?
Was it on one of those
dating apps or something?
[sobbing]: No.
No.
I went for a run
and he pulled over
and asked me to help him look
for his lost dog.
And then he drugged me
and brought me here.
[whimpers]
When?
[sobbing]
July 22nd.
Three months ago?
July 22nd, 2023.
You've been here over a year?
[sobbing]
Can you please let me go?
I need to go home to my dad.
Yes.
Yes, of course.
What... how do I get you
out of here?
I don't know.
I don't, I don't know.
- I'm gonna call the cops.
- Yeah. Yes, yes.
Please, please.
- All right.
Oh, thank you.
- Oh.
- Where are you going?!
I dropped my phone
on the stairs
when I was coming up here.
I will go down there
and I will call,
and I will get you out of here.
Okay.
Okay. Please.
[Debbie breathing nervously]
[Billy]: Looking for this?
[Debbie]: Billy.
Ha.
Here, help me up.
Happy to.
[both grunt]
[Debbie crashes in chair]
Oh, damn it!
That really hurt, Billy.
Hey, hey, hey, give me my phone.
Why?
So you can call
the police on me?
Is that what you told
Kelsey you'd do?
Hmm?
[sinister music]
- Honey, what is going on?
What are you doing up there?
Now that you know
my real secret,
things are gonna change
around here.
[Debbie groans]
From now on, the chair
stays with me.
You don't move unless I say so.
Do you understand?
- You let that girl go, Billy.
She's just a kid!
What are you gonna
do about it?
You really think the police
are gonna believe
you didn't know she was here
the whole time?
Help! Help!! Somebody help!
- Who is that for?
- Help!
The neighbors aren't coming
to your rescue anymore.
Help!!
Hey, keep screaming,
I'll send them unhinged messages
from your phone after I convince
them you have dementia.
They'll feel bad for me
when they hear you screaming.
Do whatever you want to me,
Billy, but let that girl go.
I won't say anything to anyone.
We won't have to talk about it
ever again.
You are in no position to be
giving the orders.
[chair rumbling]
[Billy]: Sweet dreams, Debbie.
[door slams shut]
[Billy]: Good morning, sunshine.
Why the long face?
- Let me go!
[grunts]
Were you expecting the police?
Are you really that delusional?
[grunting]
My mother can't walk on her own.
I'm the last surviving family.
You really think...
You really think she was gonna
choose some whore
over her own son?
[grunts]
No!
You belong to me.
You understand?
You're my property
and nobody damages
my property but me.
What better way to start
your birthday than with a bang?
[sinister music]
October 22nd, right?
I'm 18.
Little less hot now that
you're legal, but
[belt thumps to floor]
we'll make it work.
[distant thumping]
[Debbie grunts]
[thuds to floor]
[grunting]
[Billy]: Hey! What the hell do
you think you're doing?
[Debbie gasps]
Why are you doing this?
You try to pull a stunt
like that again
and it's a pillow over your face
and I'm putting the house
on the market.
You understand?
[Mrs. Byrd]: Billy,
I haven't seen you for a while.
What are you doing here?
Installing some alarms.
Why? What happened?
[Billy sighs]
- Can you keep a secret?
Of course.
A few months back,
my mom was diagnosed
with early onset-dementia.
Last night, she snuck out of
the house in her nightgown.
Took me an hour to find her.
I had no idea.
Yeah, well, now if it happens
again, alarms will sound,
be able to get down
here right quick.
You take such good care
of your mother.
Thank you.
Appreciate that.
Yeah, my husband had dementia
at the end, but I mean,
I know how to deal with it.
Let me help you with your mom.
You know what? I think
she's a little embarrassed
by the whole thing.
I don't know if it'd
be a great idea.
I think she needs her friends.
She needs her dignity,
is what she needs.
All right.
But the second you decide
you need anything,
you call me and I will
be right over.
You got it.
Okay. Bye.
[Billy]: Once you're finished
with Mom, you can make us lunch.
What is she doing here?
What do you think?
We have our own live-in maid.
Kelsey just finished the house.
She's gonna help you shower.
No.
She... , I can take
care of myself.
Not without your walker
and your chair, you can't.
Let's make it quick.
Getting hungry.
[footsteps tap away]
[Kelsey]: You have to keep
your head back
or the water's going to get
in your eyes.
Shut up and don't tell
me what to do!
- I was just trying to...
- Shush, that was for his sake.
We have to get out of here.
What?
I want to help you.
No.
No, you want to test me.
You can report back to that
rapist son that you raised
I didn't take the bait.
- Listen to me.
The man outside that door
is not the son I raised.
I think that if we act like
we hate each other
give him more control.
I promise you I will try
to get you out of here
but you have to trust me.
[stammers]
[nature TV program plays
in background]
Oh, I, I'll be right back
with your drink.
What the hell is this?
The bun's not toasted.
You didn't toast the buns.
Toast them?
[Debbi]e: Do you not know
what that means?
Do you need a dictionary.
No, sorry, I'll,
I'll take care of it.
And don't let
the food get cold.
[sighs]
You know, it's actually
not a bad idea.
The food is cooked,
the house is clean.
This might be the best idea
you've ever had.
Coming around faster than
I thought you would.
Well, we both work so hard.
We deserve to enjoy this house.
You know what?
That we do.
Dad wasn't so bad.
He worked hard, too.
Was just under a lot of stress.
Don't I know it.
In the months before he died,
his insomnia was so bad.
You okay?
Yeah.
Better than okay.
This is how the other
half lives.
Pretty soon we'll be going to
the opera and the ballet.
Who wants to leave for that?
Kelsey!
[stun gun zapping]
Dance for us.
- What, what are you crazy?
What?
[stun gun zapping]
Picked it up the other day
in case there's any more
escape attempts.
Can you please put that away?
That's not necessary.
Come on.
Just having a bit of fun.
What's your problem?
Are you starting to
care about her?
No.
If you tase her,
she'll be worthless for
the rest of the day
and then what are gonna
do about dinner?
Good point.
Fine.
Just don't forget who makes
the rules here now.
[Kelsey breathing nervously]
[Debbie]: What are you doing
standing around?
The food is getting cold.
[annoyed sigh]
All right, Kelsey, it's time
to make yourself useful.
You are going to help my mother
with her hemorrhoid cream.
Well, get to it.
Come on.
I'm gonna be right on the other
side of that door.
And remember,
these are all alarmed.
No funny business.
Got it?
- Yes, Billy.
All right.
[door slams]
You needed help with
your cream?
I think I may have found
a way out
but we have to act quickly.
Tonight?
No, but soon.
My husband had terrible
insomnia.
His doctor prescribed
sleeping pills for him
that could take out an elephant.
Wait, I don't understand.
In the closet there should be
a black leather bag
that's hidden under
a million things.
I need you to get it
out for me, quickly.
Okay.
[door creaks open]
[Kelsey]: Is this it?
Yes.
Open the sides.
See if there's a prescription
bottle in there.
[pills rattle]
- There's only two pills.
- That's more than enough.
If we can knock Billy out
long enough,
we can use his phone
to call 911.
I'll keep these under
my pillow tonight.
Tomorrow sometime I need
you to get them
into the kitchen and hide them.
Okay, yeah, and then what?
Leave the rest to me.
I've got a birthday surprise
planned for him.
Now, give me your arm.
This cream will help
some of your scars.
Let me see your arm.
Oh.
I'm so sorry that
he did this to you.
[metallic screeching]
It looks ready.
Perfect.
Actually, the top of this
is a little uneven.
You'll have to slice it.
- Why?
'Cause if you don't,
the second tier will slide
right off.
Your mother never taught
you how to do this?
Her mom's dead.
Oh, I didn't know.
I'm sorry.
Anyway, leave the kitchen
to the birds.
I'll be in the living room.
[mutters]
Like that?
Looks good.
You can start icing it now.
Hey, Billy, remember
how much your dad
loved the Tom Collins
I would make him?
What do you think if I made
you one tonight?
Pass. Nothing goes better with
chicken fried steak than beer.
There's no way I can
fit those pills
into his beer bottle.
[shouts]: Hold the spatula
still and spin the cake.
[whispers]
Did you grind them?
Yes.
But the opening
is way too narrow.
What are you two whispering
about in there?
Allow your mother
a few surprises!
[whispers] Listen,
we'll figure it out.
But whatever you do,
you cannot panic.
Do you understand?
[sinister "Happy Birthday"
plays]
Mm, smells amazing.
Turns out this one
isn't completely useless
in the kitchen.
That's not the only room
she's useful in.
I... uh, I was...
She didn't want to spoil
the surprise.
I found your dad's
old beer mug and froze it.
Kelsey, pour the beer into
the mug slowly
and on an angle to keep
the head down.
[tense music]
[plastic crinkles]
Billy, do you remember
your birthday,
I think you were 12-years-old,
your dad and I didn't give you
your presents in the morning,
and you thought that we forgot?
[Billy]: Yeah, but when
I got home,
you had mounted that flat screen
TV on my wall.
[Debbie laughs]
He wasn't a bad gift giver.
[Debbie]: Mm-hmm.
What are you so nervous about?
Sit.
No.
I... I just want tonight to
be perfect for you.
Would you look at that?
Two and a half years
of training,
she finally gets it.
[chuckles uncomfortably]
[knock on door]
[Mrs. Byrd]: Hello?
It's Mrs. Byrd.
Is there anybody home?
Not a word or she dies.
[door knocker clangs]
- Mrs. Byrd.
- Hi.
Well, good evening.
[door shuts]
Uh, so is your mother home?
I... can I say hello?
Who's Mrs. Byrd?
C-c-can we trust her?
It's too risky.
He convinced a neighborhood
that I went nuts.
I... let's stick with
the plan.
Yeah, it's uh, not really
a good time right now
but maybe another night.
- Oh, okay.
Well, I remembered that it
was your birthday
and because you have done
so much to help your mother,
I wanted to get you
something special.
Thank you.
Oh, no, open it now.
I want to make sure you like it.
- Right now?
- Yes, please.
Okay.
Aged 18 years.
- Yes.
I know it's a good one
'cause my husband always used
to hide his
when we had company come.
That's very generous of you
but I'm gonna get back inside.
Don't like to leave her
alone too long.
Okay.
Um, well, happy birthday!
Good night!
Turns out I was wrong.
There is something that
goes better
with chicken friend steak.
[deep sigh]
What the hell is this?
You put something in my drink,
you bitch!
I knew it tasted funny.
No! No!
[Billy grunts angrily]
No! No, Billy!
Stop it! Stop it!
She had nothing to do with it.
I put a sleeping pill
in your mug
when Mrs. Byrd
came to the door.
Why would you do that?
Why? Heh.
[laughs]
Why? You want to know why?
Because, because you're holding
us prisoner!
This is insanity!
You think this is a prison?
You haven't seen anything yet.
Kelsey, get Mom's pills!
No.
No. No, no, no, no, you
can't do that.
I won't be able to move!
You have been more trouble
than you're worth.
The only reason
you're still alive
is because of your disability
checks.
Don't forget that.
I'm not gonna ask again
or I'm gonna put you in
a chair too.
No, no, no!
No! No!
No, no, please!
Don't! Don't do this!
[sobbing]
[toilet flushes]
[computer keys clacking]
Hey, come here.
[sighs]
What do you think of her?
Who, who is she?
A replacement.
[sinister beat]
Relax.
You're not going anywhere.
You know everything I like
and you can teach it to her.
All right, no more standing
around.
Go make the bed.
[keys clacking]
[Kelsey breathing nervously]
What's a good opening line
for a teenage girl?
What?
Wait, I got it.
[pills rattling]
[ominous music building]
[gentle music]
Billy, this needs to stop.
You're torturing her.
She has food and a comfortable
place to stay.
Doesn't sound like any torture
I'm aware of.
Please.
I will do anything you
want me to.
[huffs]
- You already do.
But it's good that
you're saying this.
I know what I'm capable of
if somebody tries to betray me.
Is it gonna take much longer?
All that research this afternoon
got my motor running.
She needs to finish eating.
[Billy sighs]
I'm gonna grab a beer.
Be done by the time
I'm finished.
[pills rattling]
I found your arthritis pills.
They were under
Billy's mattress.
It's a 28-day supply.
I tore the house apart
looking for those.
He's looking to bring
another girl here.
She's even younger than I was.
We have to get out of here.
I know.
Let's get your strength
up first, okay?
[pills rattling]
[breathing nervously]
You ready?
Didn't think you'd sit in
that chair again, did you?
I will say, I'm glad the moaning
finally toned down.
I'm impressed considering
what a victim
you always loved playing.
[Billy]: You all done in there?
Yeah. Uh, everything but
the laundry.
Good.
Get started on some
food after that.
We'll have to get your
energy up.
Got a big day clearing
out the attic.
The new one will be here soon.
Okay, help me get her up.
All right, ready?
- Mm-hmm.
Okay.
[Debbie flops in chair]
- Ow!
When was the last time you
trimmed her nails?
Chop, chop, we don't
have all day.
I've got a lot of work
to do upstairs.
I'm not done filing yet.
You're kidding me, right?
Look at her.
She's practically a vegetable.
Leave her for now.
Let's go.
[hand clunks on tray]
[leading music]
[Mrs. Byrd]: I had the volume on
my hearing aids turned up.
And I could hear your smoke
alarm down the block.
5 P.M. every day,
rain or shine.
[nail polish remover splashing]
[match snaps]
Ooh.
[fire hissing]
[smoke detector beeping]
- Oh, ah!
Ooh.
[knock on door]
Debbie!
[pounding on door]
Debbie!
Debbie!
[911 Operator]: 911.
- I need to report an emergency.
[tense music]
There's a, there's
a girl in the attic.
[Officer]: There's someone
in the attic?
One of you come with me now.
In the house! Let's go!
You take this floor.
I'm heading upstairs.
[police radio chatter]
[sirens blaring]
[stun gun zapping]
[Billy shrieks]
[chain rattles]
[Kelsey moaning]
[muffled shouting]
He went out the window!
He went out the window!
Go to the window!
He went out the window!
[Billy panting]
[Taser clacking]
[Billy grunts]
I'm just trying to get as far
away from that house as I can!
They're holding me
prisoner there!
[Billy grunting]
[sirens wailing]
[door clangs shut]
[gentle music]
[Kelsey]: I can't believe
they're letting me go home
so soon.
[Sofia]: Yeah, well, you're
one tough bitch, so.
Sorry, Mr. Romano.
- That's all right.
Honestly, Dad, you did
not have to come walk me
the whole way.
I will walk with
you anywhere, anytime,
and as much as you'll let me.
[Kelsey chuckles softly]
And you, you did not have
to come home,
all the way from Sacramento.
Uh, we looked for you
for two years,
six months, and 23 days.
Yeah, I was coming back.
[chuckles]
You look so grown up.
I really missed you.
Well, you don't need to worry
about that again
because you are never getting
out of my sight.
Well, you'll have to compete
with me for that one.
[Sofia laughs]
Kels? Are you okay?
You want me to get a doctor?
- No, I... I...
Yeah, what's up?
I, I can't leave without
saying goodbye.
[Kelsey]: I just,
I can't believe you set fire
to your own home.
Billy always said it was
the thing in the world
you were proudest of.
I wasn't doing a lot of living
in that house anyway.
And I knew that Beth Byrd would
hear that smoke alarm
and call 911 right away.
What? It was all a set-up?
Digging your nails into
Billy's arm and...
Yeah.
Well, he had to think that
the manicure was his idea.
That boy may be a lot of things
but he is not stupid.
You saved my life.
No.
You saved my life.
If you hadn't gotten me
those pills,
I never could have done this.
[Kelsey sniffles]
Well, how are you feeling now?
[teary exhale]
Seeing you walk around free
makes me feel good.
They're still treating me
for malnourishment but I...
I'm clear to go home.
What are you going
to do first?
[chuckles]
Well...
I got a reason to try
even when it don't feel right
[uplifting music]
When I'm lost in my mind
And I'm running out of time
[smart watch]: Mile 20 complete.
...When the fear is taking
hold, hold
Let it go, go
Gotta fight back
Toss and turn, no sleep
Thinking about my dream
Or what it could be
If I just keep my head down
Someday we will see
This was meant to be
One great victory
Beautiful things are
just about to happen
Beautiful things are
just about to happen
[smart watch]: Mile one complete.
Because we're glorious
We are victorious
We're never going down
We're never getting old
Because we're glorious
We are...
[uplifting music continues]