By Harley Wallen
Every so often, a story comes along that reminds us why we tell them in the first place. For me, Finding Nicole was that kind of story — one rooted in truth, resilience, and the power to make a difference.
Based on the real-life journey of Michigan domestic violence survivor Nicole Beverly, the film pulls back the curtain on a reality too often hidden in silence. As a filmmaker, I’ve always been drawn to emotional honesty — stories that not only entertain but challenge us to confront what we’d rather ignore. Domestic violence remains one of those issues that too many people experience, yet too few understand.
Bringing Finding Nicole to life took a village of artists who believed in its message. At its core is a stellar ensemble led by Kaiti Wallen, whose portrayal of Nicole is both haunting and deeply human. Alongside her, we were fortunate to have an incredible lineup of talent — including fan favorites Sean Whalen (Twister, The People Under the Stairs), Richard Tyson (Kindergarten Cop, Black Hawk Down), and Blanca Blanco (Eye for Eye, Betrayed). Their collective experience helped us reach wider audiences while grounding the story in authenticity.
But the film’s Detroit heartbeat is what makes it truly special. Shawntay Dalon — beloved from Detroiters on Comedy Central (now streaming on Netflix) — brings not only humor and soul but also the grit that defines Detroit itself. Her performance reminds us that strength doesn’t always look the same — sometimes it’s quiet courage, sometimes it’s fire.
Marcus Woods (Empire), another proud Detroit native, adds powerful depth to the film with a performance that captures both vulnerability and conviction. His presence continues the legacy of Detroit talent shaping meaningful storytelling on screen.
Mari G., who made the trip back from Atlanta to star across from Kaiti Wallen, brings an emotional and layered performance that amplifies the film’s diversity and authenticity. Her return to Detroit for this project symbolizes exactly what this story represents — coming home, facing the truth, and finding your strength again.
Detroit knows what it means to rebuild, to rise again after the storm — and that spirit runs through every frame of Finding Nicole. Ultimately, this film isn’t just about survival — it’s about empathy. It’s about asking audiences to imagine this happening to their daughter, their sister, their friend, and to decide what they would do. Because awareness begins when we see the humanity in someone else’s struggle.
Kaiti and I have been fans and supporters of Beautiful Machine for years now, attending several of their incredible events and connecting with the positive, creative energy the magazine continues to bring to Detroit. Being featured in their pages during Domestic Violence Awareness Month feels like coming full circle — sharing a story that represents both our city’s strength and its heart. We couldn’t be more excited or grateful.
As we share Finding Nicole with audiences this month, I’m reminded that storytelling can be a form of advocacy. And as our team moves into the final funding stage of Killing Jenny — another true-story-inspired film exploring domestic violence from a different angle — we continue our mission to shine a light on the early, often unseen warning signs of manipulation and abuse that can escalate into tragedy.
Both films share a single purpose: to use art as a mirror, a conversation starter, and ultimately a lifeline. Because when truth finds its voice, change begins to follow.
And in recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Finding Nicole is now available to stream free with an Amazon Prime subscription — a perfect time to experience the story, share it, and help raise awareness for those who need it most.
