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- Written by Randal C. Hill Randal C. Hill
Producer Kevin Downs says, “I hope this film inspires many to not just talk about how we can love our neighbor, but actually show how we can love our neighbor in ways that put others in front.
“I’m hoping that this kind of gives an example of what one community did in the face of extraordinary circumstances, and how they rallied together and lifted each other up. We could use a lot more of that, I think, in our society and our communities and neighborhoods.”
Ordinary Angels is based on a true story that centers on Sharon Steves (Hilary Swank), a recovering alcoholic hairdresser in small-town Kentucky.
When she is told, “Find a reason to be here that’s bigger than you are,” she discovers an energizing sense of purpose when she learns about Ed Schmidt (Alan Ritchson).
He’s a local widower working hard to make ends meet for his two young daughters, the youngest of whom is awaiting a liver transplant.
Steves becomes an “ordinary angel” when she decides to help the family and take on seemingly impossible odds, among which is a $400,000 charge for the transplant. (As a construction worker, Schmidt earns $3,600 a month.)
When Steves asks for the entire $400,000 to be erased, a panel of hospital power folks offers collective smirks.
“Was that funny?” Steves asks defiantly.
The worst snowstorm in recent memory adds to all the woes when Schmidt’s daughter, Michelle, needs to be flown to a hospital 700 miles away for her transplant.
At one point, Steves is asked, “How did it become your responsibility to save her?”
Her response: “Because I’m here … because I can.”
Two-time Oscar winner Swank tells why she signed to do the film.
“I was drawn to this beautiful true story because it’s such a powerful reminder that angels reside everywhere among us. And that faith, hope, grit, and positivity are all powerful fuel for miracles.
“It’s also a story about the power of organ donation, something incredibly near and dear to my heart. I couldn’t be more thrilled to be a part of this story and message.”
Alan Ritchson (The Hunger Games, Fast X) had his own reasons for taking on his role.
“I am an optimist,” he says. “I believe in the best in people. I believe that sometimes we just need to be reminded of the power of what we can do together.”
Independent film director Jon Gunn is the director, and Meg Tilly and Kelly Fremon Craig created the heartwarming script.
Ordinary Angels opens nationwide from Lionsgate on Oct. 13.
Randal C. Hill enjoys getting sneak peeks of forthcoming movies from his home on the Oregon coast. He can be reached at wryterhill@msn.com.