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The Fallout (film)

The Fallout is a 2021 American drama film written and directed by Megan Park in her feature directorial debut.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The Fallout is a 2021 American drama film written and directed by Megan Park in her feature directorial debut. It stars Jenna Ortega as Vada Cavell, a high school student coping with the emotional aftermath of a school shooting. The film premiered at South by Southwest in March 2021 and was released on HBO Max in January 2022.

Plot

The film follows Vada Cavell, a high school student whose life changes after surviving a school shooting. The story focuses on emotional trauma, changing relationships, and recovery.

Cast

Jenna Ortega leads the film as Vada Cavell, with Maddie Ziegler, Niles Fitch, Will Ropp, Julie Bowen, John Ortiz, Lumi Pollack, and Shailene Woodley in supporting roles.

Production and release

The Fallout was written and directed by Megan Park in her feature film directorial debut. It premiered at South by Southwest on March 17, 2021, and was released on HBO Max on January 27, 2022, by New Line Cinema and Warner Bros. Pictures.

Music

The film's score was composed by Finneas O'Connell, who is credited as the film's composer.

Key facts

  • Megan Park wrote and directed the film as her feature directorial debut.
  • Jenna Ortega plays Vada Cavell, a student affected by a school shooting.
  • The cast includes Maddie Ziegler, Niles Fitch, Julie Bowen, John Ortiz, Lumi Pollack, and Shailene Woodley.
  • Finneas O'Connell composed the film's score.
  • The film premiered at South by Southwest on March 17, 2021, and was released on HBO Max on January 27, 2022.
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Canadian context

The film was distributed internationally through Warner Bros. and streamed on HBO Max, which made it available to Canadian viewers through WarnerMedia-linked distribution in some markets.

Frequently asked questions

What is The Fallout about?
It follows a high school student dealing with the emotional aftermath of a school shooting and the ways the event changes her relationships and outlook.
Who directed The Fallout?
Megan Park wrote and directed the film.
Who stars in The Fallout?
Jenna Ortega stars as Vada Cavell, alongside Maddie Ziegler, Niles Fitch, Will Ropp, Julie Bowen, John Ortiz, Lumi Pollack, and Shailene Woodley.
When was The Fallout released?
It premiered at South by Southwest on March 17, 2021, and was released on HBO Max on January 27, 2022.
What genre is The Fallout?
It is an American drama film.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Fallout_(film)
    Supports: Basic credits, plot premise, premiere date, release date, cast, runtime, and production details.
  2. IMDb — https://www.imdb.com/title/tt11847410/
    Supports: Plot synopsis and cast information.
  3. Rotten Tomatoes — https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/the_fallout_2021
    Supports: Director, genre, runtime, release date, and synopsis.
  4. Max — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gtl-6RCOl84
    Supports: Official trailer describing the film and confirming Megan Park's directorial debut and streaming release.