| Unsung Hero | |
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 Theatrical release poster | |
| Directed by |
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| Written by |
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| Produced by |
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| Starring |
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| Cinematography | Johnny Derango |
| Edited by | Parker Adams |
| Music by | Brent McCorkle |
Production companies |
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| Distributed by | Lionsgate |
Release date |
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Running time | 112 minutes |
| Country | United States |
| Language | English |
| Budget | $6 million [1] |
| Box office | $3.7 million [2] |
Unsung Hero is a 2024 American Christian drama film directed by Richard Ramsey and Joel Smallbone. The film follows the Smallbone family, of which Rebecca (stage name Rebecca St. James) and Joel and Luke Smallbone of For King & Country become Christian recording artists.
Plot
In 1991, the Smallbone family moved from Australia to Nashville, Tennessee in pursuit of a new beginning amidst adversity. David and his wife, Helen, uproot their lives and seven children, seeking refuge in Nashville after the collapse of David's music company in Australia.
As the family settles into their new home, they encounter numerous challenges, including financial struggles and the daunting task of starting over in a foreign country. Despite the uncertainty, Helen's unwavering faith and David's determination propel them forward, instilling hope and resilience in their children.
Central to the narrative are three of the Smallbone siblings: Joel, Luke, and Rebecca St. James. The film traces their individual journeys as they discover their musical talents and navigate the competitive music industry. Joel and Luke eventually form the acclaimed duo for KING + COUNTRY, while Rebecca St. James embarks on her own successful career as a Christian recording artist.
Throughout the film, the Smallbones confront various trials and tribulations, including doubts, setbacks, and personal sacrifices. Yet, their unwavering faith, love for one another, and steadfast determination serve as guiding lights, empowering them to overcome obstacles and fulfill their dreams.
Unsung Hero is a poignant tale of resilience, family bonds, and the power of faith to triumph over adversity. It celebrates the Smallbone family's inspiring journey and their enduring legacy as influential figures in the world of Christian music.
Cast
- Joel Smallbone as David Smallbone
- Daisy Betts as Helen Smallbone
- Kirrilee Berger as Rebecca St. James
- Jonathan Jackson as Eddie DeGarmo
- Lucas Black as Jed Albright
- Candace Cameron Bure as Kay Albright
- Diesel La Torraca as Joel Smallbone
- JJ Pantano as Luke Smallbone
Production
On 30 November 2022, Joel and Luke Smallbone announced via social media that they had made a film with their brother Ben about their mother. [3] The film is scheduled to release on 26 April 2024 by Lionsgate and produced by Kingdom Story Company. [4]
The film was directed by Joel Smallbone, making his directorial debut, and written by Joel Smallbone and Richard Ramsey. The cast also includes Jonathan Jackson, Candace Cameron Bure, Kirrilee Berger, Lucas Black, Terry O'Quinn, and Hillary Scott. The production team comprises producers Justin Tolley, Josh Walsh, and Luke Smallbone. [5]
Release
The film was released in the United States on April 26, 2024. It is scheduled to be released in Australia on May 30, coinciding with For King & County's "Homecoming" musical tour through Australia and New Zealand. [6] In the lead-up to the film, For King & County released an updated version of "Place in this World", featuring Michael W. Smith, who originally released the song in 1991. [7]
Reception
Box office
In the United States and Canada, Unsung Hero was released alongside Challengers and Boy Kills World, and is projected to gross around $6 million from 2,800 theaters in its opening weekend. [1] The film made $3.7 million on its first day, including $1.67 million from preview screenings. [8]
Critical response
On the review aggregator website Rotten Tomatoes, 56% of 16 critics' reviews are positive, with an average rating of 5.8/10. [9] Audiences polled by CinemaScore gave the film a rare average grade of "A+" on an A+ to F scale, while those polled by PostTrak gave it a 96% overall positive score, with 90% saying they would definitely recommend it. [8]
References
- ^ a b D'Alessandro, Anthony (April 23, 2024). "Zendaya-Palooza At Weekend Box Office As Luca Guadagnino's 'Challengers' Looks To Serve $15M Opening & 'Dune 2' Returns To Imax – Preview". Deadline. Retrieved April 23, 2024.
- ^ "Unsung Hero – Financial Information". The Numbers. Retrieved April 27, 2024.
- ^ "FOR KING + COUNTRY on Instagram: "WE MADE A MOVIE!"". Instagram. Retrieved December 1, 2022.
- ^ Vlessing, Etan (August 1, 2023). "Lionsgate Nabs 'Unsung Hero' Drama from Music Duo For King + Country (Exclusive)". The Hollywood Reporter. Retrieved August 1, 2023.
- ^ "Lionsgate Picks up for King & Country's 'Unsung Hero' Movie". Billboard.
- ^ Mitchell, Cody (April 19, 2023). "Unsung Hero: A Family's Journey from Down Under to Centre Stage in the USA". The Daily Declaration. Retrieved April 19, 2023.
- ^ Mitchell, Cody (January 31, 2024). "A Film That Celebrates Family: The True Story Behind for KING + COUNTRY and Rebecca St James". The Daily Declaration. Retrieved April 19, 2023.
- ^ a b D'Alessandro, Anthony (April 24, 2024). "Zendaya & Luca Guadagnino's 'Challengers' Looks To Win Weekend Box Office Match With $15M+ Opening – Saturday AM Update". Deadline Hollywood. Retrieved April 27, 2024.
- ^ "Unsung Hero". Rotten Tomatoes. Fandango Media. Retrieved April 26, 2024.
