Christian films have had a bad rap. I remember when Carmen’s Champion film came out about a former boxer that wanted to save a community center. The film was a solid, low budget, feel-good offering that wasn’t meant to compete for an academy award. Fast forward and Faith-based films have evolved into well-produced, well-written and well-acted films like “Where Hope Grows.”
Written and directed by Chris Dowling, the film is noteworthy for one outstanding decision – the inclusion of Downs Syndrome actor David DeScantis as the character ‘Produce’. I first saw the film on streaming and fell in love with it. The plot is a basic feel-good construction: an ex-ballplayer has lost his confidence and hope, mostly because of his own personal problems. Kristoffer Polaha plays Calvin Campbell, the ball player, and does good job. But he’s at his best when he is interacting with ‘Produce’, his local grocery store’s Downs Syndrome employee.
Produce isn’t his real name, but that’s what everybody call him, and what he calls himself, because that’s what his name tag says. It’s really original, and endearing. DeScantis is absolutely infectious as he spreads joy and hope throughout his store and his town, because of his love for people. Calvin struggles with the ache in his own heart, turning inward to his alcoholism, rather than showing the courage to love like Produce does.
Produce won’t leave Calvin alone, and begins to draw the former baseball player out of his dark pit. But when Calvin misses a chance to interview for a minor league team that has said they will take a chance on him, his despair smothers him. A tragic auto accident later in the film brings Calvin to the realization he needs, as he decides to take responsibility for himself, and begins his walk back to healthy. This film would have been good on it’s own, but DeScantis as Produce raises the bar on this film to excellent. Also watch for a supporting part with Billy Zabka (blonde bad boy Johnny from the Karate Kid and Cobra Kai).
I was so impressed by Descantis’ performance that I sought out his manager (who also happens to be his dad) and asked them if they would like to review a feature film script that I wrote with David in mind for the lead role. They said yes, and responded that if a production company picks up this film they would definitely like to be involved. So if you know of anyone that needs a feature script written for low budget, and starring an exceptional Downs Syndrome actor who is already attached, have them email me.
IMDB says 6.6/10. Now remember my son Luke says that 7.0 is the threshold for good movies? This movie is at least that, but more like 7.4/10.
Good job David and Chris!