Condition of Return revolves around the unfolding slow-burn story of Eve Sullivan (AnnaLynne McCord.) She finds herself trapped in a life spiraling out of control. In a daring attempt to turn her life around, she makes a deal with the devil. In the Faustian drama “Condition of Return“, the story focuses on Eve. She is seen in the opening scenes shooting a gun into a Church. She’s arrested for her heinous crime which leaves the small town scrambling to bring her to justice.

Enter Dr. Donald Thomas (Cain), a renowned psychoanalyst. He is assigned the delicate task of assessing Eve’s mental state. As she sits shackled in a police station breakroom, Eve finds herself at the mercy of his questions. With a sharp intellect and a relentless pursuit of the truth, Dr. Thomas engages in a battle of wits with Eve. As she reluctantly opens up about her troubled past, the tables slowly turn. The lines blur between who is really interrogating whom.

Intertwined with their intense dialogue, Condition of Return delves deep into the depths of human psychology. It explores the complexities of guilt, redemption, and the blurred boundaries between good and evil. Not only that, but Eve challenges Dr. Thomas to confront his own secrets and dark past. As a result, they unearth a surprising connection.

Condition of Return: A Riveting Faustian Drama

Condition of Return is a quiet but riveting tale. Consequently, one that often feels like there is not much happening. The quest for justice becomes a psychological labyrinth, and the distinction between antagonist and protagonist becomes hazier with each revelation. Dr. Thomas’s agenda is to uncover the reason Eve did what she did. However, throughout the movie, she draws on memories of her religious faith, her marriage, and severe exploitation. As she hits rock bottom she manifests the wrong kind of assistance. After that, whether her actions are justifiable is up to the viewer.

Tommy Stovall’s thought-provoking film, Condition of Return brought about by its close ties to the idea of a Faustian bargain. A character study through the eyes of Eve delves into the tale of a devout churchgoing schoolteacher. Directed by Stovall and written by the talented John Spare, her slow descent into the depths of darkness is gradual. It is driven by an unwavering determination. She is determined to reclaim her life. Retrospectively, the narrative gives rise to the realization that this is not a straightforward story.

Why is Faust a Tragedy?

Salvation is the epicenter of Faust tragedies. Eve is emphatically no hero here in Condition of Return. She does step beyond the limitations of humanity. She attempts to fix all that is broken. She bargains with the Devil giving the title a subtle supernatural sheen that is cleverely executed in the final quarter.

The cast of Condition of Return includes AnnaLynne McCord. She is known for her roles in “68 Kill” and “90210”. Dean Cain is also part of the cast. He is recognized for his performances in “Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman” and “God’s Not Dead”. Natasha Henstridge is famous for her roles in “Species” and “Diggstown”. James Russo is known for his appearances in “Django Unchained” and “Not a Stranger”.

“Condition of Return” is rated

3.5 Religion has a lot to answer for out of 5

Mother of Movies score

For a movie with a different kind of psychological test, watch The Beta Test, next.

Condition of Return Dark Drama. Courtesy of Stonecutter Media

Where to Watch Condition of Return

Experience the ultimate convenience of watching movies in the comfort of your own home with Condition of Return. From September 22, the film will be readily accessible on cable VOD and Vudu. Mark your calendars for October 23, as Condition of Return hits popular TVOD platforms including iTunes, Prime Video, and Amazon.

On September 22, 2023, Stonecutter Media brought this to theaters nationwide.