The wellness influencer, Eliza, portrayed as a social media celebrity, hosts retreats, shares her daily routine, and promotes her products to a large following of women seeking to improve their physical and mental health. One of her followers, a young woman named Emily, overdoses on prescription drugs and ends up in the hospital. Eliza, feeling responsible for Emily's well-being, invites her to stay at her beautiful and tranquil manor in a rural area where she operates a rehabilitation center.
At first glance, Willowbrook Manor seems idyllic, with lush gardens, a serene pond, and a staff of friendly helpers. Emily is amazed by the peace and organization inside the manor. She is excited to begin her journey to recovery under Eliza's guidance.
However, things quickly take a dark turn. Emily notices that the rehabilitation center's residents are miserable, and their treatments are harsh and even torturous. While Emily tries to understand the methods imposed on them, she comes across severe secrets and abuses that happen behind the scenes, as well as the staff's inability to provide the necessary care for the residents. With nowhere else to turn, Emily must come up with a plan to reveal the truth about the center and escape Willowbrook before it's too late.
The Willowbrook is a suspenseful thriller that shows how an influential celebrity can exploit the trust of their followers to achieve their own self-serving goals. It reveals how social media can create a false image of reality, and how easy it is to become lost in it, especially for vulnerable individuals. The film also highlights how people in power can abuse their authority and exploit people under their care.
The film's cast includes rising stars of Hollywood, including notable names such as Emma Stone, Daisy Ridley, and Bill Skarsgard. The Willowbrook is directed by Jordan Peele, known for his provocative and thought-provoking films like Get Out and Us.