Bennett's War
Bennett's War is a 2019 American drama-sport film written and directed by Alex Ranarivelo. The film stars Michael Roark, Trace Adkins, Ali Afshar, and Allison Paige. It was released theatrically in the United States by Forrest Films on August 30, 2019.
Bennett's War | |
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Directed by | Alex Ranarivelo |
Produced by |
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Written by | Alex Ranarivelo |
Starring |
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Music by | Jamie Christopherson |
Cinematography | Reuben Steinberg |
Edited by | Brett Hedlund |
Production company | ESX Entertainment |
Distributed by | Forrest Films |
Release date |
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Running time | 94 minutes |
Country | United States |
Language | English |
Box office | $1.1 million[1] |
Plot
After being severely wounded during military service in Afghanistan, former professional motocross racer Marshall Bennett makes an unlikely return to riding, as he attempts to win prize money to save the family farm.[2][3]
Cast
- Michael Roark as Marshall Bennett
- Trace Adkins as Cal Bennett
- Ali Afshar as Cyrus
- Allison Paige as Sophie Bennett
- Hunter Clowdus as Chris Walker
- Brando Eaton as Kurt Walker
- Michael King as Riley
- Tony Panterra as himself
Production
In May 2019, it was reported that Country musician Trace Adkins was portraying the father of Marshall Bennett (played by Michael Roark).[4] The film is loosely based on case histories of real-life wounded veterans,[5] and was shot on actual motocross tracks with real racers.[6]
Release and reception
Bennett's War premiered in Nashville, Tennessee, on August 29, 2019,[7] and opened theatrically in the United States on August 30, 2019.[8] Dennis Harvey of Variety called it "modest but enjoyable" with "lots of impressive racing footage and stunt work," adding that "it should provide an inviting alternative for audiences on the lookout for inspirational family-friendly fare."[2] John DeFore of The Hollywood Reporter called it "a wholesomely formulaic sports picture rooting its comeback narrative in themes of military duty."[8] John Mulderig of Catholic News Services wrote, "The movie's heart is in the right place and its story arc, though it forms a predictable parabola, will leave viewers feeling cheered."[5] Linda Cook of Quad-City Times wrote, "An above-average, fast-paced story about recovery and grit, Bennett's War has its moments, especially when it comes to the challenges injured veterans face when they return home." She praised Roark's performance, saying he has "a wonderful presence in front of the camera… He carries this film beautifully."[9]
References
- "Bennett's War (2019)". Box Office Mojo. IMDb. Retrieved October 25, 2019.
- Harvey, Dennis (30 August 2019). "Film Review: 'Bennett's War'". Variety. Retrieved 2 October 2019.
- Rechtshaffen, Michael (29 August 2019). "Review: Inspirational drama 'Bennett's War' gets an Army vet back on his motorcycle". Los Angeles Times. Retrieved 2 October 2019.
- Krol, Jacklyn (3 May 2019). "Trace Adkins to Play Soldier's Father in New Movie, 'Bennett's War' Read More: Trace Adkins to Play Soldier's Dad in New Movie, 'Bennett's War'". Taste of Country. Retrieved 2 October 2019.
- Mulderig, John (6 September 2019). "Bennett's War". Catholic News Service. Retrieved 2 October 2019.
- "BENNETT'S WAR: NEW HOLLYWOOD MOTOCROSS FILM COMING SOON". Motocross Action. 4 May 2019. Retrieved 2 October 2019.
- Moghaddami, Victoria (29 August 2019). "'Bennett's War' Star Michael Roark Details 'Spiritual' Connection to Role Alongside Country Singer Trace Adkins". popculture.com. Retrieved 2 October 2019.
- DeFore, John (29 August 2019). "'Bennett's War': Film Review". The Hollywood Reporter. Retrieved 2 October 2019.
- Cook, Linda (1 September 2019). "Worthwhile 'Bennett's War' focuses on vet's determination, recovery". Quad City Times. Retrieved 2 October 2019.