Words on Bathroom Walls poster

Words on Bathroom Walls

"If you can't trust your mind, trust your heart."

Movie PG-13 2020 1h 51m 7.8 /10
Directed by Thor Freudenthal

Adam is a quick witted high school senior who hides his private struggle with a mental illness as he finishes his last year, churning through exams and a sense of uncertainty about the future. Halfway through, a formal diagnosis arrives and forces him to redefine how he talks about himself. He... Read more

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Streaming availability last verified: February 13, 2026

About Words on Bathroom Walls

Adam is a quick witted high school senior who hides his private struggle with a mental illness as he finishes his last year, churning through exams and a sense of uncertainty about the future. Halfway through, a formal diagnosis arrives and forces him to redefine how he talks about himself. He discovers a confidant in Beth, a brilliant classmate whose intelligence and empathy draw him out of his shell. Their evolving connection gives him a reason to open up to others and to reimagine a life beyond secrecy. The film keeps the focus on personal growth and authentic emotion rather than sensational twists. The film lets small, intimate scenes build trust and truth. Its emotional honesty stays with you.

Directed by Thor Freudenthal, the 2020 film adapts Julia Walton's novel with a grounded, character driven approach. Budgeted at eight million, it features Charlie Plummer as Adam and Molly Parker as Beth, supported by Walton Goggins and Andy Garcia.

Audiences respond to its earnest portrayal of adolescence and mental health, with a 7.8 out of 10 average from 649 votes reflecting solid reception. The story centers on honest dialogue, resilience, and the healing power of love and friendship. The film balances humor and sorrow with restraint.

The film adds to teen drama that treats mental illness with care rather than spectacle, using a literal bathroom wall motif to symbolize inner voices. It resonates with teachers and parents facing similar challenges. Its tone stays steady even as stakes rise, offering hope without cheap thrills.

Awards and nominations for the film are limited, reflecting its modest release rather than festival breakout status. While praised for performances, the production did not secure major nominations. Its release included limited theatrical and digital platforms. It stands as a sincere, humane teen drama about embracing flaws and choosing honesty.

Details

Release Date
August 21, 2020
Runtime
1h 51m
Rating
PG-13
User Ratings
649 votes
Type
Movie
Genres
Drama, Romance
Country
United States
Studio
LD Entertainment
Budget
$8,000,000
Box Office
$3,151,849
External Links
View on IMDB

Official Trailer

Cast

Charlie Plummer

Charlie Plummer

Adam

Molly Parker

Molly Parker

Beth

Walton Goggins

Walton Goggins

Paul

Andy Garcia

Andy Garcia

Father Patrick

Taylor Russell

Taylor Russell

Maya

AnnaSophia Robb

AnnaSophia Robb

Rebecca

Beth Grant

Beth Grant

Sister Catherine

Devon Bostick

Devon Bostick

Joaquin

Lobo Sebastian

Lobo Sebastian

Bodyguard

Aaron Dominguez

Aaron Dominguez

Todd

Director: Thor Freudenthal

Written by: Nick Naveda, Julia Walton

Frequently Asked Questions

Words on Bathroom Walls is not currently available on streaming subscription services, but you can rent or buy it on Apple iTunes, Google Play, Vudu, and Amazon Video.

With a rating of 7.8/10 from 649 viewers, Words on Bathroom Walls is well-received and recommended by the community. It's a good pick if you enjoy drama and romance stories.

Adam is a quick witted high school senior who hides his private struggle with a mental illness as he finishes his last year, churning through exams and a sense of uncertainty about the future. Halfway through, a formal diagnosis arrives and forces him to redefine how he talks about himself. He di...

No. Words on Bathroom Walls is adapted from Julia Walton's novel Words on Bathroom Walls, so it's a fictional drama about a teen dealing with mental illness and romance.

Charlie Plummer plays Adam, the witty high school student who tries to keep his mental illness a secret while navigating a budding romance.