One miracle after another occurs through the passion of one full time single father whose original intention was to reunite his 12-year-old daughter with her addicted mother.
Deep in the heart of Utah, commonly referred to as "Happy Valley," residents enjoy one of the lowest crime rates, highest literacy and language fluency - even the most jello consumption - across the nation. Yet under the glossy exterior of this beautiful community, there are less popular categories that Happy Valley contends in but doesn't advertise, including prescription drug abuse, double the national average of anti-depressant drugs, even suicide. In Happy Valley at least one teen per week dies from drug overdose.
The real-life true story, Happy Valley, sheds light on the growing problem of prescription drug abuse in Utah County and, as importantly, the associated issues of denial, conformity, social pressure and guilt. The film intimately follows several lives and families that have been dramatically affected by prescription drug abuse leading to street drug abuse and addiction. From these stories and a single father's journey to reunite a family emerge unconditional love, forgiveness, acceptance... even transformation. Examples…
One: Meet Danny. From all appearances, Danny is an extremely successful entrepreneur with a beautiful family, prominent in both his community and church. However, Danny has harbored a secret addiction for more than 15 years. Danny's courage to risk everything for recovery inspires throughout the film.
Two: "Greg" takes us through the high and lows of drug abuse with humility and honesty. Initially, Greg agreed only to be an anonymous participant for the film's research, however, his story becomes so powerful that he chooses the path of recovery. Greg surrenders to his addiction, portraying endless personal transformation and growth.
Three: A harrowing story of heartbreaking addiction, broken families, and even death is told from inside prison walls, both literal and emotional. A mother and daughter's story ends with consequences but also the discovery of the exhilarating freedom that comes through forgiveness. The miracle in all of this is, how the movie ends. Unbelievable.
These miracles and more become the heart of Happy Valley with additional interviews from the State Medical Examiner, residents, local undercover cops, doctors and recovering addicts. The film also touches on the reality that we are the sickest generation of Americans ever and the disturbing blur between pharmaceutical and street drugs.
Happy Valley will open your eyes to a culture where denial and guilt are instinctive, and it will open your heart to the people who are brave enough to face it and step through it.
"I did not find this story, it found me. It was long overdue. The whole project is a miracle. The intent is to create in all of us the conversations we are avoiding. There are many forms of addiction, hence… ‘What’s in your Jello?’ “-- Ron Williams, Director, Producer & Creator
Part 001
Part 002
Part 003
Part 004
Part 005
Part 006
Part 007
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