Friendships are key in leading a happy, healthy and balanced life. They keep us in check, lift us up and add joy to our lives in a number of ways. Whether that be for living a happy life, having a well-rounded support system or, sometimes, more life-or-death situations. In the feature film ‘Til Death Do Us Part, out later this month, friendship ends up being the force that helps bring a dangerous situation to light.
Michael (Stephen Bishop) and Madison Roland (Annie Ilonzeh) are newlyweds living behind a mask of a perfect marriage. Although their relationship might have started in love, it takes a dangerous turn when Michael becomes violent and abusive.
Malik Yoba, who plays Rob, Michael’s childhood best friend, realizes something isn’t right with their marriage. He tries to give advice and support to Michael, suggesting he seek counseling.
Photo: Stephen Bishop
Robinne Lee, who plays Madison’s best friend, Chelsea, also notices the unsafe situation and steps up to the plate to help her best friend get to a safe environment. She serves as a support system for someone in a seemingly inescapable and massively terrifying situation.
Her insight into the situation transcends the facade the “happy” couple has been putting on. Eventually, she works to help her friend make a plan for changing her identity in order to stay safe. She really steps out in front of Madison to ensure that she’s doing everything possible to help her escape to safety.
This portrayal in the movie, although fictional, is something based off of very real life experiences. The release of this film also has very intentional timing — Sept. 29 — just before the start of Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM).
The director of ‘Til Death Do Us Part, Christopher B. Stokes, says that for survivors of domestic violence who have been wounded both physically, mentally and emotionally, the film is intended to bring awareness to the courage it takes to be a survivor. It’s also intended to bring attention to an issue that affects so many.
“I can't think of a more thrilling and timely film project to draw attention to the movement,” says Stokes, “Madison Roland is the kind of character any director dreams of bringing to life.”
Telling these stories is essential and giving voice to those so often portrayed as voiceless is powerful. And even beyond those in the situation, this film highlights what powerful, meaningful friendships can do as well. May this film help us all reflect on the health of our relationships and friendships.
If you or your friend is in a potentially harmful or abusive situation, there are resources available to help you reach safety. Be a lifeline, lend an ear and communicate about your concerns. Your mental, physical and emotional health will benefit. And you can see ‘Til Death Do Us Part in theaters nationwide on Sept. 29.
This post is brought to you in collaboration with '‘Til Death Do Us Part.'
