'Finding Nicole' Review: A True Story Daring You to Look Closer at the World Around You
- Romey Norton
- May 28
- 2 min read
By Romey Norton - May 28, 2025
In Finding Nicole, director Harley Wallen tackles a subject that too often remains behind closed doors, domestic abuse, and transforms it into a gripping, deeply emotional story that never feels exploitative or sensationalised. Based on the real-life journey of Nicole Beverly, the film offers a powerful, unfiltered look at survival, justice, and the long road to reclaiming your voice.
What is 'Finding Nicole' About?
At its core, Finding Nicole isn’t just about trauma, it’s about transformation. Kaiti Wallen delivers a grounded and affecting performance as Nicole, a woman whose seemingly ordinary marriage descends into psychological control, fear, and violence. Her abuser, Warren, is chillingly played without caricature, reminding audiences that danger often comes dressed in charm. The contrast between public perception and private horror is handled with care, making the story even more unsettling, and unfortunately, all too real.
There is an array of ensemble cast who are all dedicated to their roles and telling this true story. Some performances fit a soap drama, and others are stronger. There are times the story teeters on being a kitchen-sink drama, but then something dramatic happens that draws you back in as an audience. The abuse scenes are very realistic and graphic, so viewer discretion is advised.
Instead of relying on graphic scenes or courtroom theatrics, Finding Nicole builds tension through small, precise details, an offhand comment, a controlling glance, and the weight of silence after a threat. These moments accumulate, offering a slow-burn intensity that mirrors the lived experience of many survivors.
The film’s pacing can be slow at times, but stick with it because one of the most compelling aspects is its refusal to offer easy closure. The courtroom may be a destination, but it’s not the resolution. Finding Nicole shows the emotional aftermath, the media attention, the mental health toll, and the strain of navigating a justice system that often struggles to protect the very people it should serve, and the power people can have even when they’re behind bars.
All the way through, you’re craving justice for Nicole and wanting her to have a positive end to all this abuse and misery. Without giving too many spoilers, it's a fulfilling end.
Is 'Finding Nicole' worth watching?
Yes— In a culture that often asks, “Why didn’t she just leave?” Finding Nicole answers with clarity and courage. It invites the viewer to understand what it means to live in fear, fight for safety, and speak up even when the odds are stacked against you.
Finding Nicole is a raw, quietly powerful film that’s uncomfortable viewing, but that’s exactly the point. By centering the voice of a real survivor and refusing to look away, it becomes a film of rare urgency and empathy.
Finding Nicole is out now on digital platforms
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