How does inspiration change an entire team? One group finds their own solution in the film “Heart of Champions.” The story focuses on an Army veteran who uses his experience to shake up a rowing team. It’s an inspirational film that finds its footing in a sport not given as much of a spotlight over the years. The credit for rowing’s use goes to writer Vojin Gjaja — a former rower at Columbia University. His experience with the subject is just a starting point as he relies on time in the US Army to develop a tough, but fair, central character.
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Michael Shannon leads the cast as Coach Jack Murphy. The Academy Award nominee is coming off a talked about performance in Hulu’s “Nine Perfect Strangers” and can be seen in 2022’s “Bullet Train.” Alexander Ludwig, Charles Melton, Alex MacNicoll, Ash Santos co-star in “Heart of Champions.” The film also features appearances by Lilly Krug and David James Elliott.
‘Champions’ takes a chance with director Michael Mailer; the filmmaker is more known for his extensive production background. This project serves as only his second directorial effort — with the 2016 Alec Baldwin vehicle “Blind” being the first. Mailer’s adaptation of “The Genesis Code” is also currently in pre-production.
Here’s the film’s official synopsis:
After finishing last in the national championship, a college rowing team descends into turmoil and constant infighting between team leaders Alex (Alexander Ludwig), Chris (Charles Melton), and John (Alex MacNicoll). A tough Army veteran, Coach Murphy (Michael Shannon), arrives at the start of the new season to transform the status quo and unlock their true potential. Using his experience and unconventional methods to help them overcome petty rivalries and personal challenges, Coach Murphy must inspire these young men to learn what it takes to be a team before they can be champions.
Daniel Dávila, Lucas Jarach, Vojin Gjaja, Robert Ogden Barnum, Frank Buchs, Michael Shannon, and Byron Wetzel co-produce “Heart of Champions.” The film opens on October 29. Watch the trailer below.
