by Shane Conto, Staff Writer
Why are films so great at inspiring people? The limits of film are (almost) non-existent in the ways that they can capture the imagination of an audience. They can tell stories that shine a light on important issues. They can tell stories that miraculously deliver the impossible. What is even more inspiring is when they take true stories and can show audiences that the impossible can happen. We all want to live out our dreams no matter how impossible or unrealistic they may be. There is a story of a young man with legs that do not work properly but all he wants to do is be a baseball player. You cannot play sports on a professional level with such roadblocks. But the story of Rickey Hill can lead us to believe that these roadblocks can be overcome.
What is one of the most significant aspects of Hill’s story? Faith. These films have gotten a bad wrap in modern cinema…which honestly, they deserve for the most part. Unlike Lionsgate, many faith-based projects put messaging well above story and character. Then you don’t have a film. You have an infomercial. That makes for a terrible film. Supporters will argue criticizing them is an attack on the faith behind them but is not the case. The best retort is that other films make it work. Like The Hill. This is not a running propaganda exercise. This is an inspiring story of a man who realized his dreams and his faith had an impact. Director Jeff Celentano and the writers of the film do not sacrifice an engaging story for their method.
What is so great about the story? First off, these are not the most surprising or bold films when it comes to storytelling. The film plays out beat for beat how you would expect. But it is the strength of Hill’s story that makes it work so well. There are moments where you can cheer with him and sit in awe of his accomplishments. The film is well-paced despite being over two hours. The story can capture Hill’s growth from a young boy to a young adult. Faith is in the fabric of his story as his father is a preacher. His father’s journey from strict parent to supporter is just as engaging and interesting. The dialogue might be stiff and overly expected but it is the actions of the film that inspire and keep you wanting more.
How does the cast lift this tale? Obviously, the key to the film would be the actors behind bringing Hill to life. The young Jesse Berry brings tons of charm to this driven and empathetic young man. Not quite as engaging, Colin Ford does stand on his own with some emotional beats that certainly hit. The biggest supporting turn is Dennis Quaid who has found a niche in faith-based cinema as well as making cameos in raunchy animal flicks. The depth and presence he brings to Hill’s father is what makes his arc stand out so well. Joelie Carter is the Hill matriarch, and she gets her few moments to shine. Die Hard alum Bonnie Bedelia is a firecracker in the role of the grandmother in the Hill family. Scott Glenn even shows up as a gruff baseball antagonist in the third act of the film.
Does The Hill stand out in the world of faith-based cinema? This is not a perfect film by any means. The romantic elements feel undercooked. The narrative is by-the-numbers. And the direction leaves this feeling like it was made for TV. But the story inspires, and the performers give their all. This is a moving and impactful film that is a feel-good watch and a rock-solid sports film at that.
Score: Like It