Eddie Mensore, director of Hazard.

Director Eddie Mensore and Production and Costume Designer Michael McKowen’s HAZARD, a sensitive and powerful film, explores the opioid crisis impacting Appalachia

In theatres beginning January 10th

Hailing from New Martinsville, WV, filmmakers Eddie Mensore and production designer Michael McKowen are deeply committed to authentically portraying the stories of their Appalachian roots. Their latest collaboration, Hazard, is a testament to their shared dedication to highlighting the resilience and culture of the Central Appalachian mountains.

“The opioid crisis has taken so much from Appalachia, but it hasn’t stolen our spirit. Through storytelling, we honor both the pain and the perseverance of our communities.” said Mensore.

“As a West Virginia filmmaker, I feel a responsibility to capture the truth of Appalachia–not just its challenges but its unyielding capacity for love, family, and survival.”

Mensore’s passion for his community is evident in his previous work, including the critically acclaimed coal mine drama Mine 9–a box office hit in the region in 2019. Now, with Hazard, he takes a heartfelt and unflinching look at the opioid crisis, featuring a stellar cast that includes Sosie Bacon (Smile), Alex Roe (Rings, Forever My Girl), Dave Davis (The Vigil, Renfield), Steven Ogg (The Walking Dead, Snowpiercer), and West Virginia native Kevin Sizemore (Mine 9).

Michael McKowen’s production and costume design further bring authenticity to the film. A fellow New Martinsville native, McKowen approached the project with a personal connection to its themes. “Being from the region, I felt a responsibility to get the details right,” he explains. “The visuals needed to reflect the lived-in reality of these communities. Spending time with locals and hearing their stories helped us craft sets and costumes that felt true to life.”

Set in a small mining town grappling with the opioid crisis, Hazard follows Will, a reluctant drug dealer determined to protect his family from the devastation of addiction. The story explores themes of resilience, sacrifice, and survival as Will navigates the harrowing choices that threaten to entangle him further in chaos.

The film will make its theatrical debut on January 10, 2025, with screenings in more than two dozen theaters across Appalachia. A broader regional release will follow on January 17, leading up to showings in New York on January 31 and Los Angeles on February 7.

Director Eddie Mensore, production designer Michael McKowen, and cast members Alex Roe and Dave Davis will attend select screenings and host community panels addressing addiction and mental health. Special advance screenings will be held from January 6-9, culminating in a red carpet event in Louisville, KY, on January 10.

For additional details and screening information, visit www.hazardthemovie.com.