Them That Follow

Mara Childs grows up in a secluded Pentecostal community in the heart of Appalachia, under the strict guidance of her father, Pastor Lemuel. This environment shapes her beliefs and values, creating tension as she grapples with her secret life.

Mara enters a serious courtship with Garret, much to her father's delight. However, this relationship is complicated by a hidden truth that will soon unravel.

Unbeknownst to her father and the congregation, Mara discovers she is pregnant with Augie's child. This revelation adds to her internal conflict as she navigates her expectations and responsibilities.

Feeling immense pressure from her father and the community's expectations, Mara reluctantly accepts Garret's marriage proposal. This decision only deepens her inner turmoil as she grapples with her secret.

During a snake-handling ritual led by Pastor Lemuel, a tragedy strikes, resulting in a death. This incident raises concerns about a police investigation, putting pressure on the congregation and heightening tensions.

To protect his congregation from scrutiny, Lemuel allows Garret to take the fall for the snake-related incidents, resulting in Garret losing his job. This decision creates rifts between Mara and Garret.

Hope Slaughter, Augie's mother, learns of Mara's pregnancy and non-virgin status when assessing her purity. Despite her compassion, she chooses to keep this secret from Lemuel and Garret, instead informing Augie.

In a desperate attempt to win Mara back, Augie attends church and participates in the snake-handling ritual. Unbeknownst to him, this leads to a dangerous snake bite that threatens his life.

Garret, feeling betrayed, confronts Mara about her relationship with Augie. This encounter escalates into a heated argument where Garret issues a warning to Mara to stay away from Augie.

Mara, feeling overwhelmed, confides her situation to her friend Dilly. Unfortunately, this information is revealed to Garret, leading to a violent outburst that threatens Mara's safety.

In a chilling confrontation with Garret, Lemuel learns about Mara's pregnancy and her struggles. This revelation devastates him and forces him to reassess his role as a father.

Desperate to 'cleanse' his daughter, Lemuel insists Mara participate in a snake-handling test during church. Her survival of this harrowing ordeal results in a complicated approval from her father.

Concerned for Augie's life following his snake bite, his parents decide to perform an amputation at home. This shocking decision is made in the face of their belief and fear of the church.

After surviving her father's test, Mara has a moment of clarity. She chooses to leave her father's oppressive influence to support Augie during his recovery, demonstrating her growth and newfound independence.

Mara, with the blessing of Augie's parents, embarks on a journey with Augie. They vow to stand by each other and face adversity together, symbolizing hope for a new life away from their past.