The film has been noted for its "smartly constructed" script and "persuasive" performances, particularly from Sommer and Collins Jr..

Michael Vaughn (Rich Sommer) is a failing psychic who travels the country selling his book and performing group readings. His life takes a dark turn when he is kidnapped by Nathan (Clifton Collins Jr.), a remorseful murderer who believes Michael has supernaturally intuited the truth about a high-profile cold case Nathan committed years ago. Rather than fearing for his life, Michael sees the situation as his big break; he attempts to manipulate Nathan into "confessing" through a nationally televised séance to propel himself to superstar status.

: Critics from Variety and Roger Ebert praised the cast—which includes Ed Harris as Michael’s minister father—for elevating the material beyond its modest budget.

: The story serves as a resonant character study on how people justify "white lies" and the moral downward spiral that occurs when an opportunist refuses to change course.

In this interview, lead actor Rich Sommer discusses his role as Michael Vaughn and his transition from television to this indie thriller: Concordia College YouTube• Dec 14, 2016

Rich Sommer, Clifton Collins Jr., Joanne Froggatt, Ed Harris, Amy Madigan October 5, 2018 Rating R (Language and Brief Violence) A Crooked Somebody movie review - Roger Ebert

The 2018 thriller is a character-driven drama that explores the dangerous intersection of fame, fraud, and a desperate need for acceptance. Directed by Trevor White, the film follows Michael Vaughn, a "medium" who uses his charismatic persona and a staged act to provide grieving families with a false sense of closure.