The Fallout

In the days after a shooting at their high school, Vada, Mia and Quinton cope in very different ways while forming an uneasy closeness. Vada drifts through family and school life, feeling numb and disconnected. Mia channels anger into late-night parties and risky choices. Quinton keeps his pain private behind polite smiles. As they spend time together, small conversations and sudden silences reveal how trauma reshapes ordinary routines, friendships, and hopes. The film stays focused on awkward, ordinary moments rather than tidy resolutions, showing grief as uneven and the steps toward connection as messy and uncertain.

Released in 2021, The Fallout was directed by Megan Park and stars Jenna Ortega, Maddie Ziegler and Niles Fitch. The intimate teen drama was produced for a limited theatrical run and broader streaming distribution, bringing new attention to its cast.

The film had a limited theatrical release and modest box office returns, but it reached a wider audience through streaming platforms. Its availability online helped the title gain steady viewership among teens and young adults seeking realistic portrayals of trauma.

Audiences and critics discussed The Fallout for its unvarnished look at post-traumatic responses and its focus on messy, everyday interactions rather than melodrama. Jenna Ortega's performance became a frequent subject online, and the film prompted conversations about school safety, survivor guilt, and how teenagers process public tragedies on social media.

Critics generally praised the film's naturalistic performances and understated approach. Reviews highlighted its attention to isolation, shifting friendships, and the long tail of a sudden violent event. The movie treats grief as uneven and ongoing, often showing small moments of empathy, missteps in communication, and the limits of quick fixes.