Following the death of her father, attractive young Haley Lu Richardson (as Julina) moves with her mother Mary McCormack (as Leann) to a cult-like religious community. Implicitly, "Hillcreek" is a Mormon-type village somewhere in Utah; although not officially recognized by any law-abiding Church, these communities continue to thrive, in secret. Mother and daughter settle comfortably into the polygamist lifestyle, with Ms. McCormack becoming the newest wife for kindly Sam Hennings (as Merril)...
In church, Ms. Richardson's teenage hormones kick into high gear after she sees handsome young Jack Falahee (as Ryder). When they meet, Mr. Falahee sinfully has his shirt unbuttoned. Then, we're off to the races. Richardson and Falahee arrange to meet secretly and kiss. The mutually attracted couple decide to be monogamous, of course, but fanatical leader William Mapother (as Ervil, "The Prophet") has other plans. "Escape from Polygamy" may not be possible...
Damon Hill's story focuses on two of the most often related abuses present in these communities. First, there is the initiation of very young women into sexual relations, usually by a Godly older man. Second, there is the casting off of young men when they reach adulthood. The latter reason isn't explained, but it's obvious: this lifestyle needs an improper ratio of males to females in order to survive, so males must be disposed of...
This movie takes a negative view of the practice, but be aware we are left with some "good" polygamists. There are increasingly implausible occurrences, but they are paced in a way which suspends most disbelief. And, there are some plot developments which will keep the viewer surprised and engaged. You can't be sure how this will end for Richardson and Falahee, the attractive starring duo. The elders get little to do, except for Mr. Mapother. Supporting victims Jake Weary (as Micah) and Presley Henderson (as Esther) are impressive playing a tweaked castaway and pregnant girl.
****** Escape from Polygamy (8/24/13) Rachel Goldenberg ~ Haley Lu Richardson, Jack Falahee, William Mapother, Jake Weary.
