The Poison Rose 2019

Set in 1978, the story follows Carson Phillips, a private investigator from Los Angeles who is summoned to his hometown in Texas. He is tasked with uncovering the whereabouts of Barbara Poole, a patient at a mental facility who has gone missing. Barbara’s niece is deeply concerned about her well-being after not hearing from her for an extended period.

When Carson arrives at the sanatorium, he immediately senses something off as the staff, particularly the head doctor, Dr. Miles Mitchell, seem anxious when he inquires about Barbara’s condition. For days, he finds himself caught in a web of evasions, never able to see Mrs. Poole directly. During his investigation, he reconnects with his former partner, Jayne Hunt, and their daughter, Becky Hunt.

Becky is married to a local star quarterback named Happy, but tragedy strikes during a game when Happy unexpectedly collapses and dies. The police quickly shift their suspicion towards Becky, sparking Jayne’s desperate plea for Carson’s assistance. Unbeknownst to many, Rebecca had been enduring abuse at the hands of her husband, and the police’s reluctance to intervene due to Happy’s status complicates matters.

As Carson delves deeper into the facility, he uncovers a sinister truth: Dr. Miles has been systematically eliminating patients without family support to siphon off their social security benefits. With shocking revelations leading to the eventual demise of Dr. Miles, what follows challenges familial bonds and ignites a series of dramatic turns.

The climax reveals that Jayne, fearing for her daughter’s safety and knowing her own terminal prognosis, resorted to poisoning Happy to protect Becky from further abuse. In an intense confrontation, Becky confronts her mother about her involvement, and after initial denials, Jayne confesses. Their emotional reconciliation highlights the complexities of motherhood and sacrifice.

In the poignant conclusion, Carson reflects on his journey and realization that he has found a sense of home not just within the walls of his childhood town, but also within his relationships. As he decides to remain with Jayne and Becky rather than return to Los Angeles, it signifies a new beginning forged from the ashes of past conflicts and reconciliations.