MADDIE’S SECRET

(director/writer: John Early; cinematographer: Max Lakner; editor: Danny Scharar; music: Michael A. Hesslein; cast: John Early (Maddie Ralph), Kip Reynolds (Juggler), Neil Wachs (Homeless Man), Harris Mayersohn (Burgher Boy), Kate Berlant (Deena), Eric Rahill (Jake), Claudia O’Doherty (Emily), Conner O’Malley (Zach), Vanessa Bayer (Julie), Chris Bauer (Dr. Kronenfeld), Kristen Johnston (Beverlee Ralph); Runtime: 98; MPAA Rating: NR; producers: Luca Intili, John Early, Harris Mayersohn; Magnolia Pictures/Radish Films; 2025)

“It’s about the influencer culture.”

Reviewed by Dennis Schwartz
 
The comedian/actor John Early makes his feature film debut as the director-writer-star for this campy TV melodrama that’s made-for-television. It’s about the influencer culture and its clout with the American public.

John Early in drag plays Maddie, who is married to the supportive Jake (Eric Rahill). They reside in Los Angeles.

The timid Maddie is a dishwasher at a social media test kitchen, where she works with her friend Deena (Kate Berlant). She’s a great cook, who yearns to be a chef.

Her hubby sends a video online of her cooking that goes viral. Her boss (Claudia O’Doherty) is impressed and promotes her to chef. But her childhood eating disorder returns and she’s forced to turn herself into a treatment clinic. She kept this a secret from even her husband.

The film gambles by going from comedy to melodrama, and I think it sort of wins.

REVIEWED ON 6/22/2026  GRADE: B-
dennisschwartzreviews.com

melodrama.”