Considering there are eight members of the Smallbone family, it is impressive that they all come across as properly defined individuals. Sure, the youngest, Josh, only gets so much to do, but his exclamations feel like things kids would actually say in those circumstances. Joel is eager to work to help contribute to the family’s needs. Rebecca slowly comes more and more into focus as the story progresses. While she has a great singing voice, she has a little bit of stage fright, getting nervous and off-key when knowingly being watched. It’s all engaging and well-handled.
However, Unsung Hero does have some issues. Specifically, it feels like some scenes are missing. The emotional turmoil the Smallbones have been facing boils over, and David and Helen, and by extension, Rebecca, have it out. This leaves all of them in tears and at a new low. Essentially, the next scene is David and Rebecca auditioning in front of some music producers. Um, what? When and/or how did these two make up? A similar thing happens later on when Lucas Black’s Jeb re-enters the picture after David blew up at him earlier on. These reconciliations would drive home the lessons David has learned on such a difficult but ultimately rewarding path. So, where are those scenes? The film is approximately an hour and 54 minutes long. Why not make it an even 2 hours and add in these necessary character growth moments?
“…a solid drama…”
Despite the character development issues, Unsung Hero resonates. This is largely due to the cast’s terrific performances. Joel Smallbone embodies David’s drive and passion, as well as his pride, with ferocity. Betts is serene, sweet, and endearing from her first scene to her last. Berger’s singing is a standout. Black’s portrayal of Jeb is low-key charming in a way that some of his bigger films don’t allow.
Unsung Hero is a solid drama that will readily appeal to fans of Rebecca St. James or For King + Country. Importantly, audience members who do not know anything about either musical act will still be entranced by the drama and characters. Despite missing some needed scenes to carry forward the lead’s emotional throughline, this is a good film that is sure to resonate with its core demographic.
"…sure to resonate with its core demographic."
