User reviews

High praise for a thoughtful movie about difficult subjects - an old man's failing memory, the aftermath of war, murder, and two children's fears of rape and torture. Ginny, Little Bit, and Malcolm become allies in their journey to safety and their struggles and escapes along the way.

Darby Hinton, Eliza Kelley, Julie Kasmanian, Noah Deavers, John Carter Cash, and Rebecca Holden give great performances. The musical score for this movie was very enjoyable!

Was Once A Hero will make you laugh, think, and make your eyes moist. Dan Searles and Paige Smith have written a must see movie! You will want to see it more than once.

Was Once A Hero is well written tribute to those who deal with PTSD and/or some form of dementia. The characters are relatable, realistic, and just trying to get through day to day life. Darby Hinton's portrayal of a former civil soldier struggling with PTSD and dementia is spot on. Eliza Kelley, Julie Kasmanian, Rebecca Holden are equally as good in their performances. The musical score for this movie is beyond excellent. This movie has won several awards and they are well deserved. Dan Searles and Paige Smith have written a terrific screenplay about a tough subject. This is a must see movie!

Having watch this movie with 200 other people it was a great experience. People laughed when they should. Cried when the should and made audible gasped at the right time. Those are natural responses. No cue cards needed. Sheer enjoyment of a good story unfolding before you. Worth the time to find a quiet moment and be a part of a bigger story. Knowing that we still have veterans who need our support. Knowing that we have dementia in our midst and they need our support. This story is bigger than the movie. Yet, the movie allows us to have some insight and be entertained at the same time. Enjoy!!! Highly recommend.

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!