Directed by Bobby Peoples and Renee S. Warren Peoples, “You Can Never Go Home Again” is a gripping thriller on Lifetime. It follows Izzy as she comes to terms with the loss of her mother, famed artist May Malcolm. To start over, she and her husband Jack move to her hometown of Clinton, Mississippi, with their daughter Taylor. However, things go awry when Jack begins having an affair with Taylor’s teacher, Emma. When he tries to end it, she kidnaps Jack and Taylor and tries to take Izzy’s place in the family.
A troubled Izzy must now do her best to save her family before Emma’s dangerous obsession spells disaster. The idyllic small-town backdrop adds an intriguing element to its fast-paced narrative. Plus, it invokes a sense of unpredictable thrill and anticipation. If you’re wondering where this unique movie was filmed, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive!
You can never go home again
“You Can Never Go Home Again” was shot entirely in Mississippi, aka Magnolia State, specifically in Clinton and Jackson. The film was originally titled “Teacher’s Watching” during production. Principal photography for the film likely began in late January 2021 and wrapped in the first half of February 2021. Now let’s take a closer look at the filming locations.
Clinton, Mississippi
“You Can Never Go Home Again” was primarily recorded in Clinton, a town in Hinds County. Being where the storyline originally takes place, it adds an authentic element to the scenes. Additionally, more than thirty locals were hired as extras in the film. Clinton was founded in 1823 and has witnessed major historical events over the years. It is also the birthplace of many famous personalities in sports, entertainment, music, business and education.
Clinton is home to the renowned Mississippi College Choctaws and Clinton Arrows sports teams. Additionally, the comedy television series “Lowest Bidders” and the movie “The Client” were also filmed in the city.
Jackson, Mississippi
Significant parts of “You Can Never Go Home Again” were apparently filmed in Jackson, especially the parts set at school. The capital of Mississippi is located in Hinds County, with its eastern border mostly bordered by the Pearl River. The city held great significance during the Civil Rights Movement, which is reflected in its various historical landmarks like the Medgar Evers Home Museum, Mississippi State Capitol, Battlefield Park, and Mississippi Civil Rights Museum. Often referred to as “The City with Soul”, Jackson has made significant contributions to the world of music and the performing arts. Films like “The Help”, “Assimilate” and “Borat” were filmed in the city.
You can never go home again
Maria Breese leads the cast as Izzy. The talented actress is known for her roles in the television series “Project Hollywood”, “All Wrong” and “SuperHero Diaries”. Omar Gooding plays Izzy’s husband, Jack. Gooding portrayed notable characters in several TV series and movies like “Barbershop”, “Family Time” and “Christmas Belles”.
Jackie Moore tries out for the role of Emma, ​​a teacher dangerously obsessed with Jack. Some of Moore’s well-known works include the films ‘Party from Hell’, ‘Wanton Want’ and ‘Nightmare Best Friend’. The other cast members of this Lifetime movie are Al Sapienza (Chuck Fletcher), Liliana Ali (Taylor), Matt McVay (Kyle Prater), Deborah Rennard (May Malcolm), Sherri Eakin (Natalie Jensen), Princess Elmore (Olivia) and Jeremy Sande (Byron Boyd).
Can You Never Go Home Again is a true story?
No, “You Can Never Go Home Again” is not based on a true story. However, the somewhat realistic narrative can be credited to writers Harel Goldstein, Charles Morris Jr., and Rebecca Weaver. The screenplay brilliantly captures real life aspects of human life, such as infidelity in marriages, loss of a parent, and obsession. Additionally, the film is most likely inspired by real crime incidents where women kidnapped and murdered their lover’s spouses.
The narrative also explores the fragile yet strong nature of marital relationships, which often stand the test of time and loyalty. It further focuses on the impact of cheating on a marriage, which is, unfortunately, one of the top reasons for divorces in the United States. According to divorce statistics, 17% of divorces are due to adultery by one or both partners. In addition, 22% of married men and 14% of married women have committed acts of adultery at least once in their lives.
These alarming numbers indicate that infidelity is indeed a serious matter and makes you think about why a person is unfaithful. Some of these reasons include lack of emotional support from the partner due to personal difficulties, which are carefully examined in this Lifetime film. Jack feels neglected by Izzy, as she struggles to come to terms with her mother’s death. Thus, he seeks comfort from his daughter’s teacher, which leads to disastrous consequences for him and his family.
But when Izzy realizes Emma’s intentions, she bravely faces her trauma and decides to save her family. To conclude, even though the film’s script isn’t based on an actual incident, it reflects reality with a dash of fiction made possible by the stellar performances.
Read more: Best infidelity movies
