I'm not one to cry in movies but I cried like a baby in this film. For King & Country is one of my favorite bands and they have talked so much about their story during their concerts but to see their story brought to life on the big screen is so inspiring. The hardship they went through after moving to the states was so sad. Joel Smallbone (for King & Country's frontman) co-directed and starred in the film. He is a good actor. It is truly amazing to see that no matter what was thrown at the family, nothing was able to separate them. I don't want to write much more without spoiling the film but I highly recommend the film. It's an incredible story of success, hardship but more importantly how despite all the challenges their faith stood strong and didn't deteriorate due the challenges they faced.
49 Reviews
Can an atheist enjoy this film?
sebapesto26 April 2024
Warning: Spoilers
It was the evening of Tuesday, April 23rd. I was about to go to bed when a thought came to my mind. "Are there any good films in the theaters?" I checked on the AMC app (not a sponsored review, unfortunately), and I see this " Unsung Hero" early screening on April 24th. I read the brief description and the only thing I get from it is that it is based on a true story (or as the movie itself says IT IS a true story) about a family whose kids will then become global singers.
I am saying all this because, when I went to watch the film, I was not aware of the deep religious elements in it, I did not know the musician the music is based on, and maybe I was even the target of the film. I have to admit, at the beginning of the film I thought "What am I even watching?" I am not religious, I don't believe in God, and I am not a fan (simply because I don't know their music, not because I dislike them in any way) of the artists it talks about.
But I'm glad I stay all the way through.
Although this movie is in no way perfect (and no film should ever strive for something as abstract as the concept of perfection anyway, although LOTR comes very close, side note), and there are definitely a handful of cheesy moments that might turn off some audiences, and most of the siblings could have easily been cut from the film if not that it is based on a true story as they had almost no lines and no development, I found myself invested, entertained, moved, and satisfied once I left the theater.
This is a feel-good story And despite me not being religious and not connecting particularly with the act of praying, I can connect with what Community is, what desires are, and what needs are.
I'm glad I watched this film and I'm glad it was made.
Thanks for the flick, onto the next one.
I am saying all this because, when I went to watch the film, I was not aware of the deep religious elements in it, I did not know the musician the music is based on, and maybe I was even the target of the film. I have to admit, at the beginning of the film I thought "What am I even watching?" I am not religious, I don't believe in God, and I am not a fan (simply because I don't know their music, not because I dislike them in any way) of the artists it talks about.
But I'm glad I stay all the way through.
Although this movie is in no way perfect (and no film should ever strive for something as abstract as the concept of perfection anyway, although LOTR comes very close, side note), and there are definitely a handful of cheesy moments that might turn off some audiences, and most of the siblings could have easily been cut from the film if not that it is based on a true story as they had almost no lines and no development, I found myself invested, entertained, moved, and satisfied once I left the theater.
This is a feel-good story And despite me not being religious and not connecting particularly with the act of praying, I can connect with what Community is, what desires are, and what needs are.
I'm glad I watched this film and I'm glad it was made.
Thanks for the flick, onto the next one.
Great movie!! Go see it!
willeagle2326 April 2024
I want to see this again!! Being on vacation this week my wife and I were lucky enough to be able to go see this on a special preview night. It even had some extra content before the movie started by for King & Country and an animated short. Not sure if those will be included on the wide release. I only saw the trailer once before I went to see the movie and only knowing it involved the for King & Country family because my wife told me. Was so surprised to learn that one of my favorite Christian artist was part of the Smallbone family! Their older sister is Rebecca St. James! I never knew of that connection and have been a fan of hers for years! That was a pleasant surprise. I really did enjoy this movie and laughed and I even noticed I got watery eyes a few times. I think the watery eyes were due to the cool air blowing into my face during the movie. My wife assured me that was not the case because the air wasn't even on. Oh? Definitely a movie to go see with family and friends and if I am fortunate enough to see it again I'm taking someone with us!
Excellent movie, beautifully filmed!
afoldcrop26 April 2024
"Unsung Hero" is based on a true story. Set in the 90s, it portrays the real life struggle of an Australian family who has hit rock bottom and is immigrating to America for a fresh start. This film is excellently directed and acted! It is a beautiful story about the importance of family during difficult seasons of life, and how adversity and difficulty can make your faith and family stronger. I liked that it dealt very honestly with the emotional toll people experience when going through difficulty and the importance of loving each other in our brokenness. Beautiful movie with an inspiring ending!
"Long obedience in the right direction." - Eugene Peterson
anabagel27 April 2024
"Long obedience in the right direction." - Eugene Peterson
Over and over again throughout the movie this quote played through my mind. The long, steadfast obedience and prayers of Helen Smallbone. The willingness and kindness of their neighbors and church. The encouragement and hope of James Smallbone. The faith and resilience of each of the kids. The determination, repentance, and purpose of David Smallbone. The opportunities given by Forefront Records, and so many others - every bit of it is long obedience in the right direction. And their obedience has impacted my life.
Their music, their testimony, their encouragement, and their faith has taught me, shaped me, and pushed me toward Jesus for more years than I can even count.
What you do and how you do it matters. It may not lead to the global phenomenon of top CCM artists, industry leaders, or pastors in your town, but it will impact and change the lives of those around you. Fix your eyes on Jesus, keep following. You never know what He's going to do. Go see Unsung Hero, and let your people know how their long obedience in the right direction has changed you.
Over and over again throughout the movie this quote played through my mind. The long, steadfast obedience and prayers of Helen Smallbone. The willingness and kindness of their neighbors and church. The encouragement and hope of James Smallbone. The faith and resilience of each of the kids. The determination, repentance, and purpose of David Smallbone. The opportunities given by Forefront Records, and so many others - every bit of it is long obedience in the right direction. And their obedience has impacted my life.
Their music, their testimony, their encouragement, and their faith has taught me, shaped me, and pushed me toward Jesus for more years than I can even count.
What you do and how you do it matters. It may not lead to the global phenomenon of top CCM artists, industry leaders, or pastors in your town, but it will impact and change the lives of those around you. Fix your eyes on Jesus, keep following. You never know what He's going to do. Go see Unsung Hero, and let your people know how their long obedience in the right direction has changed you.
So inspiring and moving
johnmorrisfamily27 April 2024
I really loved this movie. Christian films aren't always great; some are in fact quite cheesy. This movie was believable and a great story of perseverance, family and faith. I grew up loving the music of Rebecca St James but never knew her story. I didn't know she was related to the awesome brothers of For King and Country. This story was so incredibly powerful. As a father of four, I kept thinking what I would do if I lost my job and had no way to provide for my family. What a scary place to be. This story of hope and faith, and how the kids never stopping believing really moved me. It's not Hollywood it's real life.
My only wish is that the film didn't end so abruptly. I wanted to see more, like maybe a jump to "present day" where it showed the success of all the kids after incredible hardship. Either way this was a terrific, inspiring movie that the whole family should see.
My only wish is that the film didn't end so abruptly. I wanted to see more, like maybe a jump to "present day" where it showed the success of all the kids after incredible hardship. Either way this was a terrific, inspiring movie that the whole family should see.
SOME MOVIES CHANGE YOU!
firedude289427 April 2024
Some movies entertain you for an hour or two. But some movies change you. They leave you feeling like life has purpose and meaning, like it's not all for nothing, and like you want to be a better person (or the best possible version of yourself). Unsung Hero is all of the above!
First, it's a true story about one family and the extreme difficulties they experienced while trying to find a job and make a new life for themselves. Everyone can relate to feeling beat down at times, but not everyone has an unsung hero that refuses to let them stay down.
Helen Smallbone was just that; an unsung hero. She had a faith that could move mountains. She had a love that was unshakeable. And she had a kindness that is to be both admired and duplicated.
This is a beautiful story and I am so glad that it has now been told.
Lastly, the acting was spot on and the storytelling well done.
First, it's a true story about one family and the extreme difficulties they experienced while trying to find a job and make a new life for themselves. Everyone can relate to feeling beat down at times, but not everyone has an unsung hero that refuses to let them stay down.
Helen Smallbone was just that; an unsung hero. She had a faith that could move mountains. She had a love that was unshakeable. And she had a kindness that is to be both admired and duplicated.
This is a beautiful story and I am so glad that it has now been told.
Lastly, the acting was spot on and the storytelling well done.
A MUST-SEE MOVIE!!!
melkaiser-4305326 April 2024
This is a movie that every family should watch together! It's hard to find quality family films these days, but Unsung Hero is more than just quality. It is a heartwarming movie based on the true story of the Smallbone family, a family who moved to America from Australia and faced hardships. Rather than give up, they worked together to build a new life, and were blessed by some amazing people along the way. With all that we face in the world today, a movie like this is exactly what people need to see. It is a reminder that the greatest joys in life are not found in material items, but in the relationships. The message of hope and perseverance was inspiring!
Not a payed add. Just saw it at 1:40 PM east opening day
bryantmadeline27 April 2024
One of the best Christian Films Ive seen in a long time. It manages to get the point accross without being to preachy. The movie flows from start to finish and has some great ups and really sad downs ; but yet it doesnt drag at all. With all the hype and way over board promotion ; I expected it to be awful. Boy O Boy, was I wrong. Loved all the actors and Joel does a great job protraying his dad. Each kid picked did such a awesome job. My only complaint's are Candaces hair and Jonathans looked so fake.. like they dident even try. I really wanted to see more of Rebeecca Journy as well. Just remeber the movie is mostly about the mother and her faith and strengh..
Wonderful family film
jonesmiriam27 April 2024
Very well-done family film.
However, in the first 20 minutes the main theme of the movie (faith) was not mentioned and it already felt like a movie that did not made sense at all - events happened very quickly and it was overall quite unrealistic.
Smallbone's acting was brilliant and his directing more so. But I guess I was hoping for a Jesus moment. In the end, I had more questions than answers which means the movie will not fit in well with sold-out believers. Overall, a very meaningful love story, but there's not one mention of Jesus outside of using His name as a joke between the Son of God and Santa Clause
Very flippant about our Savior, but maybe there's no need. I just don't want to waste my busy time on any film that doesn't talk about Jesus. I may as watch Star Wars or Indiana Jones than a family drama that should have more Jesus if it's a true faith based movie.
However, in the first 20 minutes the main theme of the movie (faith) was not mentioned and it already felt like a movie that did not made sense at all - events happened very quickly and it was overall quite unrealistic.
Smallbone's acting was brilliant and his directing more so. But I guess I was hoping for a Jesus moment. In the end, I had more questions than answers which means the movie will not fit in well with sold-out believers. Overall, a very meaningful love story, but there's not one mention of Jesus outside of using His name as a joke between the Son of God and Santa Clause
Very flippant about our Savior, but maybe there's no need. I just don't want to waste my busy time on any film that doesn't talk about Jesus. I may as watch Star Wars or Indiana Jones than a family drama that should have more Jesus if it's a true faith based movie.
Support this! We need Christ in theaters!!
AaroninCali226 April 2024
Please get out and support this film UNSUNG HERO - we need JESUS at the theaters. The incredible Smallbone family is about incredible faith in God. Our church supports this film.
Another must-see movie is 'THE FIRING SQUAD' coming out I think August 2.
Both of these films are incredible and we must do all we can to bring unsaved people to the theaters if they won't go to church. The Apostle Paul says, "I become all things to all men to win some to Christ" 1 Corinth 9:22.
The Great Commission is not The Great Suggestion. Telling people about a Savior is the greatest thing you can do in this lifetime
Our country needs Jesus more than ever. Please support these films.
Another must-see movie is 'THE FIRING SQUAD' coming out I think August 2.
Both of these films are incredible and we must do all we can to bring unsaved people to the theaters if they won't go to church. The Apostle Paul says, "I become all things to all men to win some to Christ" 1 Corinth 9:22.
The Great Commission is not The Great Suggestion. Telling people about a Savior is the greatest thing you can do in this lifetime
Our country needs Jesus more than ever. Please support these films.
Nice story in the mold of "I Can Only Imagine"
jwag7773 May 2024
Warning: Spoilers
Nice story of faith, patience, perseverance, and most importantly, a never-ending trust in God, about a down and out Australian family who move from the riches of Australia to an empty house rental in Nashville because of some unpredictable bad luck for the music promoting father. Literally down to nothing, the family of five discover the singing talents of one of their very own daughters, who is able to hook up with a record company and turn things around for the family.
The movie is the true story of the discovery and emergence of popular Christian singer Rebecca St. James, which I knew going in. But I wasn't aware it was also the story of two of her brothers who went on to sing for another popular Christian group, "For King and Country".
My only beef with the movie is that, for some reason, they decided to portray everyone the family confronted between Australia and Nashville as unfriendly, arrogant stiffs. From airport security, to gate attendants to other promoters, all were very unpleasant. Not sure why, except to make the families plight as difficult as possible. I hope those people weren't that way in real life!
Anyhow, if you liked the movie "I Can Only Imagine" from a few years ago, you'll like this too. Very similar rags to riches story. And how God is faithful to those who believe in him with all of their heart.
The movie is the true story of the discovery and emergence of popular Christian singer Rebecca St. James, which I knew going in. But I wasn't aware it was also the story of two of her brothers who went on to sing for another popular Christian group, "For King and Country".
My only beef with the movie is that, for some reason, they decided to portray everyone the family confronted between Australia and Nashville as unfriendly, arrogant stiffs. From airport security, to gate attendants to other promoters, all were very unpleasant. Not sure why, except to make the families plight as difficult as possible. I hope those people weren't that way in real life!
Anyhow, if you liked the movie "I Can Only Imagine" from a few years ago, you'll like this too. Very similar rags to riches story. And how God is faithful to those who believe in him with all of their heart.
An okay film with a good performance by Daisy Betts
moviemanmo9734 May 2024
The trailer lends itself to that of "A star is Born". So, I decided to watch it without knowing anything about the people it is based on. This is a true story based on the life of Christian Singer Rebecca St. James before her rise to fame. The film begins by showing that her family didn't always struggle and were well off until one bad investment during a recession cost them everything. The rest of the runtime goes on to show their struggles to get back on their feet and how she got her break as a Christian Singer.
Joel Smallbone (David Smallbone) played a believable role as the father of this family struggling to keep them financially stable. Through his character he was able to show how much this father cared for his family and how much it hurt him to not be able to take care of them at times. Compared to other characters, he was given some depth which helped make him relatable.
The standout performance was that of Daisy Betts (Helen Smallbone). She stole every scene she was in as this mother who stayed strong for her family despite their hardships. Her acting ranged from subtle body language and facial expressions to full on dramatic moments. There wasn't a single emotion she didn't express.
Kirrilee Berger (Rebecca St. James) unfortunately wasn't given much to work with. She was a subdued character despite this film being inspired by her. For most of the time she was just the daughter with the good singing voice. She was easily forgotten in this story that overpowered her with the drama between her parents. She should have been more of the focus since this ultimately became her story even if it was the family's story.
The remaining family members weren't developed as characters. Only one of them was given somewhat of a personality the rest were just bodies to make this family appear large. The only thing that supports having such meaningless characters is the fact that they had to be in the film to represent the real family.
The music works well throughout complementing its emotional scenes. The singing was also enjoyable. The family drama was engaging enough to keep one invested in what it had to say. There were many positive messages and touching moments which accentuated the importance of family, hard work and having faith. However, the film is in no way heavy handed with its message of faith. There are scenes where the family is praying and going to church but it isn't preachy. It simply shows the family's beliefs. Many of the negative reviews stem from those who feel this film should have fully devoted itself to religious talks. If those are your expectations then do not watch this film.
The ending wasn't very pleasing as it rushes its conclusion on what's already a very predictable plot. The film needed to show more of the family's success instead of coming to a halt at the turn of their misfortune.
Joel Smallbone (David Smallbone) played a believable role as the father of this family struggling to keep them financially stable. Through his character he was able to show how much this father cared for his family and how much it hurt him to not be able to take care of them at times. Compared to other characters, he was given some depth which helped make him relatable.
The standout performance was that of Daisy Betts (Helen Smallbone). She stole every scene she was in as this mother who stayed strong for her family despite their hardships. Her acting ranged from subtle body language and facial expressions to full on dramatic moments. There wasn't a single emotion she didn't express.
Kirrilee Berger (Rebecca St. James) unfortunately wasn't given much to work with. She was a subdued character despite this film being inspired by her. For most of the time she was just the daughter with the good singing voice. She was easily forgotten in this story that overpowered her with the drama between her parents. She should have been more of the focus since this ultimately became her story even if it was the family's story.
The remaining family members weren't developed as characters. Only one of them was given somewhat of a personality the rest were just bodies to make this family appear large. The only thing that supports having such meaningless characters is the fact that they had to be in the film to represent the real family.
The music works well throughout complementing its emotional scenes. The singing was also enjoyable. The family drama was engaging enough to keep one invested in what it had to say. There were many positive messages and touching moments which accentuated the importance of family, hard work and having faith. However, the film is in no way heavy handed with its message of faith. There are scenes where the family is praying and going to church but it isn't preachy. It simply shows the family's beliefs. Many of the negative reviews stem from those who feel this film should have fully devoted itself to religious talks. If those are your expectations then do not watch this film.
The ending wasn't very pleasing as it rushes its conclusion on what's already a very predictable plot. The film needed to show more of the family's success instead of coming to a halt at the turn of their misfortune.
Awesome Movie
mckinneyfamily-2502127 April 2024
Beautifully filmed movie with a very compelling story. I believe people of all life stages can enjoy and identify with the characters of this film. My husband and I could recognize parts of ourselves in the main characters, both negative and positive. A tale of human struggle and the ability to persevere with faith, family, tenacity, and courage. Eloquently delivered performances that really makes you appreciate your loved ones and the many blessings in each of our lives. This movie is a reminder to humanity that there is always hope and that we always have the choice to believe in that hope or let hard times define the rest of your life. This family chose hope.
Family perseverance that endures great struggles.
rccurlee27 April 2024
Great movie, production and acting.
Well done Smallbone Family!!!! Beautiful and inspiring!!! Belief in yourself and the guiding principles of kindness, love of family and staying true to your beliefs!
It was such a fantastic movie of Faith, blessings and the struggles of a family that is has been a part of my life for years through music.
Exceptional cinematography, videography, casting, acting - all of it. The events were so relatable, I was completely drawn in. Many tears - it was definitely moving. But not bad tears - tears of relief of miracles happening. Wholesome, faith-encouraging true story of a family.
A mother's deep love and husband and wife that work together. Take your family or at least be inspired to reach out to the people in your life that are your Unsung Heroes!
Well done Smallbone Family!!!! Beautiful and inspiring!!! Belief in yourself and the guiding principles of kindness, love of family and staying true to your beliefs!
It was such a fantastic movie of Faith, blessings and the struggles of a family that is has been a part of my life for years through music.
Exceptional cinematography, videography, casting, acting - all of it. The events were so relatable, I was completely drawn in. Many tears - it was definitely moving. But not bad tears - tears of relief of miracles happening. Wholesome, faith-encouraging true story of a family.
A mother's deep love and husband and wife that work together. Take your family or at least be inspired to reach out to the people in your life that are your Unsung Heroes!
A great movie about the importance of family!
slyredfox-869-72400426 April 2024
Unsung Hero, co-directed by Joel Smallbone, is a heartwarming movie about the importance of family among life's challenges. The story follows the move of a family from Australia to America. The family is for King and Country's Luke and Joel Smallbone's. The movie focuses on the challenges faced by the father, David, played by Joel, and his wife Helen, their love for their family, and how the family faces those challenges together. The movie also includes lots of great 90s music. The movie is a must-watch for anyone looking for an encouraging story that celebrates the healing power of family relationships.
What an amazing testimony of faith, love, perseverance
freakforfringe26 April 2024
I went into this not having any idea what it was about only that For King and Country had something to do with it which for me, was enough...From the start it drew me in and didn't let go even to the end...it deserves and Oscar and not just for the movie but everyone involved.. .the emotions of the characters so raw and real caused me to be just as angry at the injustice but inspired to.do whatever it takes to keep going while giving all my burdens to our Lord and Savior...even at their lowest...what a beautiful example of what it means to love unconditionally even when things to be the darkest...it makes me want to pray even harder for us to return to God's example of what a family is supposed to be...I pray this movie will go viral and explode the world over exceeding expectations...may God continue to bless everyone involved in the making of this masterpiece in all that they do...in Jesus' Name...
Well done Smallbone Family!!!!
rubyredww27 April 2024
Well done Smallbone Family!!!!
Beautiful and inspiring!!!
True life has ups and down and how we choose to move through those Peaks and valleys is OUR choice and often guided by the important people in our lives. Mom Smallbone is THAT person for this family!!
Belief in yourself and the guiding principles of kindness, love of family and staying true to your beliefs! And of course, MOM POWER!! Perfect timing for Mothers Day ...take your mom or at least be inspired to reach out to the people in your life that are your Unsung Heroes!
Golden rule is a great place to start for every action ...be the inspiration for yourself and those around you.
Beautiful and inspiring!!!
True life has ups and down and how we choose to move through those Peaks and valleys is OUR choice and often guided by the important people in our lives. Mom Smallbone is THAT person for this family!!
Belief in yourself and the guiding principles of kindness, love of family and staying true to your beliefs! And of course, MOM POWER!! Perfect timing for Mothers Day ...take your mom or at least be inspired to reach out to the people in your life that are your Unsung Heroes!
Golden rule is a great place to start for every action ...be the inspiration for yourself and those around you.
Heart Warming & Heart Breaking
stevendbeard28 April 2024
Warning: Spoilers
I saw Unsung Hero, starring Joel Smallbone-Priceless, The Book of Esther; Daisy Betts-Chicago Fire_tv, Last Resort_tv; Kirrilee Berger-Butterbean's Cafe_tv, One Dollar_tv and Lucas Black-N. C. I. S.:New Orleans_tv, the Fast & Furious movies.
This is a faith based movie that is a true story about Christian singer Rebecca St. James and the Christian pop duo, For King & Country-all are siblings. It is an emotional story with heart warming and heart breaking elements. It takes place in the 1990's when Joel, a music promoter in Australia, looses his job and can't find anymore opportunities down under. He decides to take his wife Daisy and their six kids to America and start over fresh after he gets a job offer. They get to Nashville, only to find the job disappear and they are close to being broke. The family takes up mowing yards and cleaning houses to make money. Lucas is a member at the local church that tries to help the family out by getting the church to donate gifts-clothes, furniture, etc.-to help the family. Lucas is financially well off, and even gives them a van to drive. Kirrilee plays Rebecca, one of Joel's children that likes to sing. FYI: Joel is playing his own father in the movie, as well as making his writing and directing debut with this movie.
It's rated PG for thematic elements and has a running time of 1 hour & 52 minutes.
If you like these kinds of movies, you should enjoy this one too. It would be a good one to stream.
This is a faith based movie that is a true story about Christian singer Rebecca St. James and the Christian pop duo, For King & Country-all are siblings. It is an emotional story with heart warming and heart breaking elements. It takes place in the 1990's when Joel, a music promoter in Australia, looses his job and can't find anymore opportunities down under. He decides to take his wife Daisy and their six kids to America and start over fresh after he gets a job offer. They get to Nashville, only to find the job disappear and they are close to being broke. The family takes up mowing yards and cleaning houses to make money. Lucas is a member at the local church that tries to help the family out by getting the church to donate gifts-clothes, furniture, etc.-to help the family. Lucas is financially well off, and even gives them a van to drive. Kirrilee plays Rebecca, one of Joel's children that likes to sing. FYI: Joel is playing his own father in the movie, as well as making his writing and directing debut with this movie.
It's rated PG for thematic elements and has a running time of 1 hour & 52 minutes.
If you like these kinds of movies, you should enjoy this one too. It would be a good one to stream.
A Story of Faith & Family
vibekehiatt28 April 2024
I have been a fan of Rebecca St. James for almost two decades now and was eager to see the story of her family on the screen. I was nervous that the film wouldn't live up to my expectations, but it ended up surpassing them.
We see the Smallbone family living a comfortable life in Australia with father David trying to make a name for himself as a concert promotor. When faced with a failing economy and poor financial decisions, he loses everything. What follows is the story of the family's journey to America and their efforts to support each other as they begin a new life.
This is a well-written, well-directed, and well-acted film. We see characters who are very human, trying to counter pride with humility, fear with faith, and doubt with confidence. The strongest aspect of this film is its focus on family. It reminds us that we cannot and should not try to get through our struggles alone.
We see the Smallbone family living a comfortable life in Australia with father David trying to make a name for himself as a concert promotor. When faced with a failing economy and poor financial decisions, he loses everything. What follows is the story of the family's journey to America and their efforts to support each other as they begin a new life.
This is a well-written, well-directed, and well-acted film. We see characters who are very human, trying to counter pride with humility, fear with faith, and doubt with confidence. The strongest aspect of this film is its focus on family. It reminds us that we cannot and should not try to get through our struggles alone.
Wanted to like this, but came away not liking it
andrewpoe29 April 2024
Warning: Spoilers
Emotionally manipulative movie with the male lead being the worst offender. While the premise leads to some genuine emotions, some of the acting wasn't there and wasn't good. The movie at times felt too long and seemingly uninteresting. The kids were rather generic and faceless as actors. I went through 90% of the movie thinking the kid in glasses was a girl (until the kid was introduced as being a brother, I would have presumed that it was otherwise). A lot of the direction wasn't there either; the director seemed to rip off better directors for a few of the scenes (namely, Robert Zemeckis). Daisy Betts as the mother was the best actress in the movie; Terry O'Quinn did great although I wondered why his character seemed unable to send his son any money if he supposedly loved him.
This isn't to say there weren't some good parts to the movie. The opening shot was great and the train scene was really good. The cinematography throughout the movie was the highlight, even if the acting wasn't. I can't fault a movie for being well shot.
The movie left me wondering why anyone would listen to Christian music because that industry seemed more cutthroat and evil than the secular music Christians love to attack. It seems Christian music has just as many jerks as the rest of the music industry.
I also wonder how difficult things would have been if the family weren't white or weren't relatively pretty. A family of people of color (or even LGBTQ) would have a harder time in the US versus a family that talked "English in a funny accent" that moved to the South.
This isn't to say there weren't some good parts to the movie. The opening shot was great and the train scene was really good. The cinematography throughout the movie was the highlight, even if the acting wasn't. I can't fault a movie for being well shot.
The movie left me wondering why anyone would listen to Christian music because that industry seemed more cutthroat and evil than the secular music Christians love to attack. It seems Christian music has just as many jerks as the rest of the music industry.
I also wonder how difficult things would have been if the family weren't white or weren't relatively pretty. A family of people of color (or even LGBTQ) would have a harder time in the US versus a family that talked "English in a funny accent" that moved to the South.
All the emotions!! A MUST SEE! 💙
d_bornt28 April 2024
I laughed, I cried, it made me think, I was encouraged!! Great acting!! What else would you want from a movie? I totally got immersed in the story line. Also so fun to see the family cameos in the movie . It is a love letter to family, like what Bart Millard of MercyMe said about this movie. 💙 I've seen it 4 times and will go again because it is such a beautiful movie. I can't lie I've loved for King & Country's music for over 12 years, and seeing the journey that they actually went through that showed us why their faith is so strong is just incredible. Miracles after miracles, because they needed them and they prayed for them. It is a movie that helps us heal and encourages us to be a better version of ourselves. To love our family where they are, through challenges. It gives us hope. Joel playing his dad was also mind blowing. He is such a good actor. I love this TRUE STORY film and can't recommend it enough!! Go see this movie and proof me wrong, I dare you.
Great movie - What family is all about!
legerpartyof29 April 2024
Such an inspirational movie of struggle and staying strong by sticking together and relying on God. Families like this are rare, but I'm blessed to have this same family dynamic with the center being God. It shows that God's plan isn't always easy, but He grows us through it and surrounds us with the right people to lift us up and encourage us. God gave this family the gift of music and they have used it in amazing ways to reach people across the world for God! Our purpose on this earth is to be disciples and reach as many people as possible and they are doing a fantastic job of that! Go see it, you won't regret it!
I can't wait to see it again with other family members!
I can't wait to see it again with other family members!
FAITH
jamieguffey-8962529 April 2024
THIS WAS A MOST FAITH-BASED, FAMILY STRUGGLE, MOVIE I SEEN THAT IS TRUE. JOEL DID A REMARKABLE JOB ON PLAYING HIS FATHER. HELEN KEPT HER FAMILY TOGETHER NO MATTER WHAT WAS THROWN AT THEM THRU FAITH, NO MATTER WHAT HER DOUBTS WERE, HER MOM'S INSISTANT BEGGING TO GIVE UP AND GO HOME, ALL 6 KIDS IN THE FAMILY ARE REMARKABLE THEY DIDNT COMPLAIN WHEN THEY DIDNT HAVE NOTHING HEY WENT TO PRAYER. WHEN THE DAD GAVE UP THE FAMILY CAME TOGETHER THRU FAITH.
I CAN SAY THAT GOD WAS WITH THEM FROM THE BEGINNING, ESPECIALLY SINCE THEY HAD TROUBLE WITH CUSTOMS, I NEVER HAD TO GO THRU CUSTOMS CAUSE I NEVER LEFT THE U. S. BUT HOPE ALL CUSTOMS REPS ARENT LIKE THAT.
I CAN SAY THAT GOD WAS WITH THEM FROM THE BEGINNING, ESPECIALLY SINCE THEY HAD TROUBLE WITH CUSTOMS, I NEVER HAD TO GO THRU CUSTOMS CAUSE I NEVER LEFT THE U. S. BUT HOPE ALL CUSTOMS REPS ARENT LIKE THAT.
Exactly What You'd Expect, and Maybe What You Need
racliff28 April 2024
Christian movies can be predictable. Of course so are Road-Runner cartoons, and I thought those were great. "Unsung Hero" is a family story that is both unusual and typical; in that this is a family with lots of children for an audience probably only having one or two; following success and tragedy, the family is forced to move but don't just cross town, instead head out to a different country; and while upheaval surrounds, the mom of this story is also pregnant with their newest member.
How many dads would provide by leaving the family, seeking opportunities and sending money back. This mom will not allow her family to be broken apart. So we are invited to witness a dad who has lost his footing and maybe their entire future; we see the hearts of the children, doing what they can; and of course the aches and tears of mom.
There really are no epiphanies here, however to those who have seen many full-moons in their lifetime, there may well be the too familiar failure of putting food back at the grocer checkout, no longer having furniture, or battling ones own ego at simple invitations of neighbours living life better, or learning how to gratefully accept help from others.
If you're a dad who has pulled your child from social program because you can't get $60 to keep her in, or a grandparent sharing all that you can, only to have it all fall on deaf ears, or watched God provide something that never should have arrived at just the right the time, this may well be a movie that grants you a smile and a laugh and a tear.
Most people will learn little from this movie, beyond families are paramount, and God is good. Life unfolded well for this family and they have made significant impacts on the lives of many people. I believe all the faithful have that same opportunity to have a positive impact on those around them. That is worth remembering, and that makes this movie a good usage of 2 hours and worthy of supporting.
How many dads would provide by leaving the family, seeking opportunities and sending money back. This mom will not allow her family to be broken apart. So we are invited to witness a dad who has lost his footing and maybe their entire future; we see the hearts of the children, doing what they can; and of course the aches and tears of mom.
There really are no epiphanies here, however to those who have seen many full-moons in their lifetime, there may well be the too familiar failure of putting food back at the grocer checkout, no longer having furniture, or battling ones own ego at simple invitations of neighbours living life better, or learning how to gratefully accept help from others.
If you're a dad who has pulled your child from social program because you can't get $60 to keep her in, or a grandparent sharing all that you can, only to have it all fall on deaf ears, or watched God provide something that never should have arrived at just the right the time, this may well be a movie that grants you a smile and a laugh and a tear.
Most people will learn little from this movie, beyond families are paramount, and God is good. Life unfolded well for this family and they have made significant impacts on the lives of many people. I believe all the faithful have that same opportunity to have a positive impact on those around them. That is worth remembering, and that makes this movie a good usage of 2 hours and worthy of supporting.
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