Was Once a Hero

The movie made me both laugh and cry and was a reminder of how precious life is and finding joy in the simple things. A life fully lived means deep and at times challenging relationships. Dan Searles wrote a masterpiece, and I didn't know I was a Darby Hinton fan, but I am now!

I was especially moved with the scene mid-movie set by the creek. There are no words being spoken, but a moving song is being sung by Dennis Jewett and his band Joshua Tree called " Hide from the Devil" which says it all!

The entire cast deserves a standing ovation - Eliza Kelley, Robert Carradine, John Carter Cash, and the jaw-dropping Rebecca Holden. If you don't know the name Julie Kashmanian, you should! She is poised to be the next BIG star!

I saw a pre-screening of this movie. It is very special. It will resonate with those who have loved ones dealing with memory issues and/or PTSD, maybe even provide a better understanding of the issues. You will laugh. You will cry. You will pull for the good guys and boo the bad ones. You will see the best and the worst of humanity, and you will see the resilience of the human spirit. In short, you will be riveted to the screen. It's a beautiful story with a wonderful cast of characters portrayed by some gifted actors. The music is unforgettable. This is an experience you can share with the entire family proving that good movies can still be made without the constant bombardment of foul language.

I laughed, I cried, I wondered how the mule made out, but most of all, I was touched and I grew in empathy and understanding.

This movie at first watch was well written, well acted, very believable, heartbreaking at times, and had a pleasantly unpredictable story line.

At second watch I gained a greater insight into Alzheimer's and, through some amazing acting by Darby Hinton, found myself gaining a greater level of understanding and empathy for those struggling with the disease. An outstanding performance.

I love westerns, and this movie did the genre proud. Although the subtext of this movie could cross into other genres or times, I found the setting to be the perfect backdrop to the struggles of the main character as we don't often see cognitive struggles front and center in this era or genre.

Loved the characters (well, the "good guys", but all were very well acted). Mr. Hinton's character was lovable, humble, evoked empathy and respect, and brought wisps of humor amidst his heartbreaking cognitive struggles. Through the various struggles of the characters, I found there to be an underlying sense of peace throughout the movie. Not sure if I stand alone on this point, but to me it is a credit to the everyone involved, from the creators, to the production crew, to the actors. A well done production from start to finish.

Saw a screening of this fine film in Bethesda, MD.

A very original storyline carried within the tried and trusted period found in the untamed western frontier. I found the overall perspective unique, which isn't easy in today's day and age.

The writing was strong throughout, in terms of both dialogue and narrative. Moreover, I was extremely impressed with the performances. These players brought their A Game, one and all.

However, Julie Kashmanian did steal the show, executing an unwavering performance, advancing tirelessly upon a complex and multi-layered character arc.

John Carter Cash's role as the heavy; I can go on and on. He exhibited an almost boyish psychosis, complete with tics and a disquieted gaze that promised wickedness.

Eliza Kelley, a compass, demonstrated a storm of emotions never permitted to come to the surface, but nevertheless, were present in every single scene.

My only concern, and this is nitpicking, was the pace. I felt some scenes were sluggish, and that the tempo, the cadence, needed to pick up a bit. Otherwise a good story, well told.

An eye opening story about a strong man with dementia dealing with friends and outlaws in the 1800's. I laughed and cried and really connected with the characters. Darby Hinton was the perfect "character" for his role. He made the hero completely believable, and delivered both humor and sentimentality when appropriate. Julie Kashmanian and John Carter Cash brought their characters to life as well. I enjoyed the action, the history, and the overall story very much. I also liked historical perspectives too. An excellent movie.

I met Darby and Dan Searles, the writer, at a film festival where the movie was shown.