“Escaping the Madhouse: The Nellie Bly Story” (2019) is a psychological thriller based on the true story of investigative journalist Nellie Bly. Set in the late 19th century, the film follows Bly (portrayed by Christina Ricci) as she voluntarily commits herself to the infamous Women’s Lunatic Asylum on Blackwell’s Island to expose the brutal conditions and mistreatment of patients.

Undercover as a mentally ill woman, Bly endures inhumane treatment, including forced isolation, physical abuse, and psychological torment. The asylum’s cruel head nurse, Matron Grady (Judith Light), rules with an iron fist, subjecting patients to extreme neglect and punishment. As days turn into weeks, Bly’s sanity is pushed to its limits. Her only solace is a fellow patient, who provides brief moments of companionship amid the horror.

With her release dependent on outside intervention, Bly’s escape becomes a race against time. Eventually, her editor arranges for her removal, and she publishes a groundbreaking exposé that leads to widespread outrage and reforms in mental health institutions.

The film captures the terror of being trapped in a corrupt system and highlights Bly’s courage in exposing injustice.

Dark, intense, and unsettling, Escaping the Madhouse sheds light on a pivotal moment in investigative journalism and mental health reform.