The film opens with an intentionally clichéd love at first sight romance. The two main characters quickly fall for each other, set to the classic song “Walkin’ on Sunshine” by Katrina and the Waves. As the film progresses however, the viewer may begin to notice some warning signs—the man becomes more controlling and possessive, keeping tabs on the clothes she wears, the food she eats, and the people she associates with. This causes some of his earlier behavior to be re-evaluated—like his invasive selfie on her phone, or showing up uninvited at her front door. The signs are subtle at first, until it’s too late. By the end, the sweet, happy vibe of the song takes on a more ironic, dark twist.

Day One is a NYC-based organization dedicated to reducing the prevalence of sexual abuse and violence as well as supporting and advocating for those affected by it. But not all abuse is physical. Emotional and verbal abuse is often even more insidious and difficult to separate from devotion, which is succinctly captured in the film’s final line: don’t confuse love and abuse.