Lead Us Not

Robert Miller is a kind-hearted, selfless man in his late 20’s to early 30’s. He’s always had an affinity as a public servant, trying to fulfill the desire to be helpful to the world. He’s married to Alice Miller, determined and cunning, craving attention and validation while desperately (and effectively) covering up her not-so-perfect past. Upon Alice’s suggestion, we meet Robert while he is working towards getting his Masters in Divinity in hopes to become the next local pastor at their church. Wanting to do some good in the world, he pushes on, but something feels like it’s been missing for years. A once passionate photographer, Robert finds himself at a crossroads as he continues his studies, perhaps not fully wanting to envelop the life that has been suggested for him by his wife. This only becomes further complicated by the arrival of their weekend guests, Alice’s childhood friend, Rachel, along with her “husband,” Sean. From the moment they arrive, Robert recognizes Sean as his ex-lover from several years ago, which sends him into a flurry of self-exploration. Push comes to shove, and after enduring the world’s most awkward dinner, Robert and Sean have a confrontation, discussing why Sean has turned up out of the blue. Unbeknownst to Sean—and honestly, even Robert—this is exactly the change Robert has been waiting for to breathe life back into him Meanwhile, Rachel is realizing that her long-time friend, Alice, isn’t who she used to be anymore. Observing the Christian-doused décor and overly pretentious attitude that Alice now displays, Rachel is disturbed and almost disgusted at the new behavior, knowing well that it’s all a façade to cover Alice’s past. Alice, who has become a master of manipulation, knows that Rachel has a keen eye, and takes extra care to uphold her porcelain wall, keeping every hair in place. This conflict reaches a breaking point as the weekend progresses, and the two have a fight regarding the coverup. As secrets begin to come to light, Robert understands that his situation is not only undesirable now, but entrapping, confining, and stressful. Not only has his marriage been built on lies, but the toxicity of it is choking him, realizing that several of his choices in the marriage haven’t even been his own. Sean reassures him that there’s light and love inside of him that’s dying to break free, and all Robert has to do is find his own truth, whatever that may be. Robert’s heart bursts open again, falling back in love with Sean, and ultimately confronting Alice about everything that’s transpired. He leaves her for a better life, a happier life, where he can truly feel fulfilled by helping people in a way that’s far more effective. By the end, Robert and Sean begin a new life together, Rachel returns home, and Alice, plagued with her own demons, finally takes the steps to recovery to begin a new, much healthier life.