There's something uniquely compelling about a true story brought to life on the silver screen, especially when it involves an inspiring journey of grit, redemption, and the transformative power of sports. This is precisely what “HARD MILES,” directed by RJ Daniel Hanna, promises. The film, starring the versatile Matthew Modine, is set to make its debut OnDemand and Digital on June 7, 2024.
“HARD MILES” chronicles the real-life saga of the bicycling team at Rite of Passage's RidgeView Academy, a medium-security correctional school in Colorado. The film dives deep into the life of coach Greg Townsend (portrayed by Matthew Modine), who faces the Herculean task of assembling a group of incarcerated students for an extraordinarily ambitious bike ride from Denver to the Grand Canyon. It's not just about the miles they cover, but the emotional and psychological journey they undertake.
Matthew Modine, known for his remarkable roles in “OPPENHEIMER” and Netflix's “Stranger Things”, brings a depth of character to Coach Townsend. His performance is surrounded by a talented cast, including Jahking Guillory, Jackson Kelly, Damien Diaz, and Zachary T. Robbins. Each actor brings a unique flavor to the story, making it a rich tapestry of emotions and experiences.
Furthermore, the film features notable performances from Cynthia Kaye McWilliams (“Average Joe”, “Bosch”), Leslie David Baker (“The Office”), and the ever-reliable Sean Astin (LORD OF THE RINGS, RUDY). This ensemble not only adds gravitas to the film but also ensures that each character is vibrant and memorable.
While “HARD MILES” is undoubtedly a sports film, it's also a heartfelt drama about second chances and the transformative power of perseverance. The clip titled “Starting a Fire,” available on YouTube, exemplifies this perfectly. In it, Greg (Modine) shares a poignant lesson on the proper way to start a fire, symbolizing the spark of hope and change ignited in his students. As the journey progresses, the students begin to enjoy and embrace their roles, shifting from apprehension to genuine enthusiasm.
Set your calendars for June 7, 2024, when “HARD MILES” drops OnDemand and Digital platforms through Blue Fox Entertainment. Whether you're a fan of sports dramas, true stories, or simply enjoy watching underdog stories unfold, this film promises to deliver an uplifting and thought-provoking experience.
