Was Once a Hero

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.

I got an advance copy to review for the theater booking and instantly fell in love with this movie! It really highlights the immense burden PTSD and Dementia can have on not only your loved ones, but yourself. The way the film portrays not only the disease, but the character underneath is excellent writing that you can tell came from the heart.

The visuals are absolutely stunning, and the wild west town of Old Bedford Village really becomes a character of its own right.

I cannot recommend this movie enough, and I can't wait to see and hear everyone's reactions to the movie! See it on the big screen while you can because this is a special movie that deserves it!

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.

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 love westerns, and I'm a Darby Hinton fan. I also like the writings of Dan Searles, so I was looking forward to seeing Was Once A Hero last June.

The movie FAR exceeded my expectations.

So well written, and all the actors were superb in their roles.

The movie was, at various times, humorous, exciting, and touching.

Darby Hinton gives a heart wrenching performance that will bring tears to your eyes.

PTSD didn't have a name during the post civil war era, but it was there, as was dementia. You will fall in love with Darby's character and this movie.

Kudos also to Eliza Kelley, Robert Carradine, John Carter Cash, Dan Searles, and the beautiful Rebecca Holden.

But keep your eyes on a young actress by the name of Julie Kashmanian, she will be a star!