Words on Bathroom Walls 2020

As a high school senior, Adam Petrazelli’s world dramatically shifts when he experiences a psychotic break, unintentionally burning one of his classmates’ arms. Diagnosed with schizophrenia, Adam initially turns to cooking as a way to cope with his condition, finding solace in his culinary skills. However, as his symptoms worsen, he is enrolled in a drug trial to help manage his hallucinations. These hallucinations include visits from three distinct characters: Rebecca, a free-spirited New Age enthusiast; Joaquin, his mischievous best friend; and the overprotective “Bodyguards,” who lurk ominously between being threatening and caring. Additionally, Adam is plagued by a menacing voice that embodies his deepest fears and anxieties around the unknown.

Upon transferring to St. Agatha’s Catholic School, Adam encounters Maya Arnez, the intelligent and passionate class valedictorian, who takes on the role of his academic tutor. As they develop a close bond, Adam finds comfort in her presence, which calms his troubled mind. He begins confiding in Father Patrick, the empathetic school priest, sharing his fears and struggles with mental health.

Maya’s tutoring becomes a vital source of support for Adam, but he learns that she is battling her own difficulties at home, where her family faces significant financial challenges. An unexpected visit to her home leads to initial embarrassment and tension, but understanding quickly turns to acceptance, deepening their connection. Maya invites Adam to accompany her to her part-time job, where he realizes that the medication is dulling his sense of taste.

In a reckless decision, Adam chooses to stop taking his prescribed medication, keeping this choice hidden from his mother Beth and stepfather Paul. This leads to a downward spiral as his mental state deteriorates, with delusions returning and mood swings becoming more unpredictable. The news of Beth’s pregnancy with Paul exacerbates Adam’s feelings of insecurity and being a burden.

Despite his emotional turbulence, Adam excels academically, earning a chance to read his essay at the graduation ceremony. He musters the courage to ask Maya to prom, and she agrees, marking a significant moment in their relationship. However, Beth discovers Adam’s choice to stop his medication, triggering a confrontation with Sister Catherine, the school’s headmistress, resulting in Adam’s temporary suspension due to safety concerns.

Determined to attend prom despite the suspension, Adam self-medicates and, upon arrival, meets Maya. As they dance together, he is besieged by dark whispers, unraveling his composure. [Sister Catherine] attempts to intervene, but Adam’s delusions escalate, culminating in a harrowing fall from the catwalk at the event.

Upon waking in the hospital the next day, Adam is confronted by Beth and Paul. Maya’s visit is filled with emotional complexity, revealing Adam’s fragile state of mind, leading to her departure amidst his turmoil. The repercussions of his actions are severe—prompting his expulsion from St. Agatha’s and confinement in a psychiatric ward.

A visit from [Father Patrick] offers Adam the comfort he desperately needs, as he provides reassuring words that help ease some of his pain. Meanwhile, a heartfelt email from Paul helps Adam realize the true depth of his stepfather’s support. This revelation leads to a transformative moment for Adam, causing him to reach out to his parents and, in a moment of vulnerability, extend an olive branch to Paul.

With graduation approaching, Adam confronts his struggles head-on, delivering an impactful speech that serves as both a confession and a testament to the strength found in embracing one’s challenges. Thanks to [Father Patrick]’s encouragement, he articulates the harsh realities of living with schizophrenia, acknowledging the toll of concealing his true self.

Following this cathartic moment, Maya returns, and Adam takes the chance to apologize for his earlier secrecy, paving the way for a deeper romantic connection. As he embarks on his journey to culinary school, Adam’s high school diploma symbolizes his triumph over adversity.

The film concludes on a touching note as Adam celebrates the arrival of his new sibling with Maya, Beth, and Paul. Even though the voices still whisper in his ear, Adam has learned to coexist peacefully with them, showcasing his growth and resilience as a source of hope for others navigating the challenging terrain of mental health.