Synopsis: Based on a remarkable true story, Unsung Hero follows David Smallbone as he moves his family from “Down Under” to the United States, searching for a brighter future after his successful music company collapses. With nothing more than their seven children, suitcases, and their love of music, David (for KING + COUNTRY’s Joel Smallbone) and his pregnant wife, Helen (Daisy Betts), set out to rebuild their lives. Helen’s faith stands against all odds and inspires her husband and children to hold onto theirs. With their own dreams on hold, David and Helen begin to realize the musical prowess in their children, who will go on to become two of the most successful acts in Inspirational Music history: five-time GRAMMY Award®-winning artists for KING + COUNTRY and Rebecca St. James.
In a seemingly eroding world, every once in a while we are reminded how truly wonderful life and people can be. Whether it’s from random acts of kindness, a community coming together to support a neighbor, marveling at a work of art, or those moments when you take time to soak in nature, being alive can be amazing. There will be instances where it may take a personal hardship or witnessing the difficulties of another for you to appreciate what you have and who you are and that’s okay, that’s human. Time is fleeting and nothing is promised, so we must remember to be thankful for the gifts and abilities we possess, and the people in our lives, and remind ourselves that we’re not so different from one another. Be kind, be thankful, and appreciate.
“We’re going to lose everything.”
If you don’t already, it’s time that we all start showing love to those who do the most for us. Directed by Joel Smallbone and Richard L. Ramsey, Unsung Hero is a humbling reminder of what’s important. The easy answer is the actual answer and that’s family. We all say it when asked and mention it in lists, but we often lose that focus and care because we see our families regularly. More than anything we tend to lose sight and forget to give our deep gratitude to the person or persons who nurtured us and sacrificed the most. That sentiment is at the core of this film and what it does best. It celebrates the unsung heroes in our lives. For many of us, it’s our mothers. A mom will forego all her dreams and aspirations, wake up early, stay up late, eat last, and dedicate her entire existence to ensure her family is happy and achieving their goals. As the film quickly takes a turn for the worse, we are faced with the duality of the Smallbone family. It is the pride of the father aggressively crashing up against the mother’s unwavering faith.
From incredibly high to almost rock bottom, this love letter to Helen Smallbone and moms everywhere details the strength of a loving woman. This faith-driven true story highlights not just the fall from the top, but the difficult yet beautiful journey of what happens when you stand firm together, especially when life is at its bleakest. It shines a light on community and fellowship and despite your hardships, help is available if you allow it. More than anything, this is a story of encouragement and growth. It’s seeing the little miracles or finding the small wins, and then watering them until they blossom. From realizing you can do without to discovering angelic voices that will change the family’s trajectory forever, this ultimately triumphant moment in time would be unbelievable if it wasn’t true. It’s not only inspiring and relatable, but it’s incredible. To quote J. Cole, there’s beauty in the struggle.
“God makes everything beautiful when it’s time.”
The themes of faith and family are evident, but the well-executed drama sets this film apart from other faith-based features. The drama doesn’t feel forced or manufactured like a Hallmark movie. Not to mention, this story of humility isn’t overtly preachy. Does it reference God? Yes. Are there a handful of prayer scenes? Yes. Nevertheless, it’s done in a fashion that isn’t attempting to convert or shame you for not believing. It is merely what took place and I can appreciate that.
Unfortunately, the film doesn’t hit as hard in the feels as I expected. I predicted tears, however, the sadder moments are somewhat rushed through for the sake of making a relatively more uplifting journey. Moreover, with such a large family to cover, I’m sure some darker moments were left out. There is also some overacting in a few spots that feel out of place. Nevertheless, the film is shot incredibly well, the 90s-infused soundtrack is a lot of fun, and for those looking for a family film with lessons and teachable moments, this is for you. It’s not quite the music-focused voyage you expect as it tells a balanced family experience but it has plenty to offer. Its rewatchability is medium.
Pace & Pop
The film moves at a decent pace. While many emotional beats are hit, the story could’ve slowed down to drive a few points home and let the hard-hitting scenes breathe. What popped for me was the strength of the mother, Helen Smallbone. Her faith and determination are unflinching as the family traverses their most difficult time.
Characters & Chemistry
Starring: Daisy Betts, Joel Smallbone, Kirrilee Berger, Jonathan Jackson, Lucas Black, Candace Cameron Bure and Terry O’Quinn
If I’m not mistaken, this is Joel Smallbone’s first leading role and one of few acting gigs outside of doing music videos. He knocked it out of the park. Playing your father is no easy task and he is thoroughly impressive. The anger, frustration, and guilt come off incredibly authentic. Daisy Betts steals the show as Helen Smallbone. She’s strong, loving, caring, present, and everything else you’d want a mother to be. Kirrilee Berger as Rebecca Smallbone is the most relatable. We can all put ourselves in her shoes and remember when no one would listen to us. She has a wonderful singing voice, I only wish it was showcased more often. However, it was incredibly moving when we witnessed her talents in full. The young ones, Tenz, Diesel, JJ, and Angus were all great and added innocence and humor. And lastly, Paul Bonenfant was the protector as older brother Daniel Smallbone. Lucas Black fit the story perfectly while Candace Cameron Bure felt a tad over the top.
Unsung Hero releases in theaters on April 26, 2024. Stay safe and tell them you love them.
Rated: PG Runtime: 1h 52m Directors: Joel Smallbone & Richard L. Ramsey Screenplay: Richard L. Ramsey & Joel Smallbone Story: Richard L. Ramsey Producers: Joshua Walsh, Luke Smallbone, Justin Tolley, Joel Smallbone Executive Producers: Candace Cameron Bure, Andrew Erwin, Tony Young, Kevin Downes, Jon Erwin, Mike Curb, Todd Woods, David Pierce, Jeffery Brooks, Gerald Webb, Ford Englerth Director of Photography: Johnny Derango Production Designer: Katherine Tucker
Unsung Hero is a humbling reminder of what’s important. The easy answer is the actual answer and that’s family.
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GVN Rating 7
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