Was Once a Hero

I was excited to see this film because part of it was filmed in our local ,"Old Bedford Village." I was so impressed with the quality of the film. The story held your interest throughout. I laughed and cried and truely believed the very talented actors. The sets, scenery and costumes were true to the period. Most people now have someone they know and love who struggle with dementia. The hero here shows how, despite his failing memory, he is able to hold on to his moral strengths and that there is still meaning to his life and he can be useful to others. I will recommend this movie to all my friends.

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.

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 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!

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.