Trapped: The Alex Cooper Story

A 15-year-old student and the film’s central figure, Alex endures coercive conversion efforts by guardians and the Simms. She documents days in a secret journal while seeking help from allies, and she fights to live openly with her girlfriend Frankie. Her resilience drives the legal battle that follows.

An openly gay student who leads the Gay-Straight Alliance at school. He has faced discrimination and suicidal thoughts but finds strength in a supportive family and peers. Jason becomes a crucial ally for Alex, helping her access protection and resources.

The English teacher who assists Alex and Jason, connecting them to legal help. She and Jason reassure Alex that support is available and willing to help navigate the crisis. She acts as a protective ally within the school.

A Salt Lake City attorney who takes Alex’s case pro bono and agrees to represent Frankie if needed. He coordinates with schools and advocates to challenge the coercive network and protect Alex’s rights.

The adult in charge of the conversion program, who exerts control through intimidation and punishment. He orchestrates the abusive regime and reinforces a climate of fear to force obedience.

Alex’s sympathetic neighbor who provides shelter after she is expelled from the home. Daniella’s support demonstrates how small acts of kindness can sustain someone under pressure.

A worker at the Salt Lake City Youth Crisis Center who supports Alex and coordinates contact with legal aid. She emphasizes that the Simms and parents cannot take her away while advocacy continues.

A religious leader who becomes involved in the storyline during crucial moments but offers limited practical aid to Alex’s plight.

Alex’s grandmother who is part of the Utah-based family network. She appears in the broader setting that introduces Alex to the Simms and the surrounding community dynamics.

Alex’s father, whose decision to send Alex to Utah with her grandparents initiates the confrontation with the Simms and the conversion regime.

Alex’s mother, a driving force behind the plan to send Alex to Utah and place her under the Simms’ care.