Directed by Harley Wallen, Finding Nicole tells the true story of domestic abuse survivor Nicole Beverly, adapted from her book and appearances on national television. The story opens with Nicole (Kaiti Wallen) at a gun range in the present day, struggling to push through the fear and trauma that fills her mind. The film then rewinds to 2005, when Nicole is a college track athlete. She meets Warren (Marcus Woods), a charming football player who quickly sweeps her off her feet. A year later, they’re at a backyard barbecue—Nicole is now working double shifts at a health clinic, and Warren is a police officer, talking about marriage but uneasy about Nicole’s other male friendships…even the gay ones. Warren begins to show signs of emotional control over Nicole, as he reacts violently to feelings of inadequacy and rejection.
As time moves forward, Nicole becomes pregnant—unexpectedly. Though Warren initially opposed the idea of children, he changes his mind and stays in the relationship. Over the years, the abuse escalates, particularly after the birth of their second child. Warren becomes more volatile and physically violent, especially when he’s drinking or when Nicole questions his behavior. The situation comes to a head when Nicole kicks him out of the house, but he continues to show up uninvited, and he threatens to harm Nicole and the children if she doesn’t let him back in.
In the present timeline, Nicole is in court as Warren is charged with domestic abuse. She is run through the wringer, forced to defend her decisions and explain why she stayed in the relationship. The film highlights how deeply embedded Warren’s manipulation was and how the system often failed to protect her. The trial becomes a battleground where Warren and his attorney engage in legal games, and there is even concern that he may have orchestrated a hit on Nicole with his prison buddies. Despite the risks and the trauma, Nicole pushes forward with the case, seeking justice and safety for herself and her children.
A dramatic moment unfolds in Finding Nicole as law enforcement confronts a key character, reflecting the film’s tense and emotional stakes.
“…seeking justice and safety for herself and her children.”
Finding Nicole tells a harrowing story that, tragically, is all too common. She is the woman who is drawn into a relationship and doesn’t see her partner’s true nature until it’s too late. She endures abuse while law enforcement and the justice system fail to protect her. Justice often seems to protect the guilty from actual harm to an extreme degree.
As a film, Finding Nicole is a compelling drama even when its low budget cracks open ever so slightly. The film doesn’t exactly have the studio production values of a million-dollar set and a designer wardrobe, but its makeshift locations do convey the point effectively. Kaiti Wallen carries much of the film with her incredible performance, walking a constant line between frustration, anxiety, fear, and triumph.
Despite its indie limitations, Finding Nicole delivers a raw, emotional impact thanks to Kaiti Wallen’s powerful performance. Her portrayal captures the emotional tightrope Nicole walks every day—between fear and hope, survival and strength. Ultimately, this is not just a story of abuse, but one of resilience, justice, and the determination to reclaim one’s life.
"…Justice often seems to protect the guilty from actual harm..."
