Some movies inspire me to be a better man. Standout: The Ben Kjar Story is one of them. It’s a documentary about a good man who managed to find joy in spite of incredible hardships.

Ben the Victor

I wrote about Ben Kjar back in 2020. I got to meet him several times over the years. He was born with a rare medical condition that prevented his head from growing properly, necessitating numerous surgeries to correct the problem. And he looks different as a result.

The film doesn’t present Ben as a victim. Yes, it shows the struggles he faced as a result of his condition. But it also demonstrates his strength of character and how he fought to overcome his limitations. Athleticism was one of his best outlets.

I especially loved the scenes of him wrestling in high school and college. He reached extraordinary heights, and the film doesn’t shy away from the valleys he passed through to get there.

My Own Experience

I don’t want to say too much about this film or give away its unexpected twists. I just want to say that I watched this film right after experiencing extreme highs and lows in my own life. I heard about it while I was in the midst of an eight-month job search. That was a brutal fight for me in which I seemed wholly inadequate. Yet I persevered, much like Ben, and finally found the place where I belong.

A few weeks ago, it seemed like all hope was lost. But now here I am fully employed and excited to serve in a new position! I couldn’t be happier. Watching Ben go through a similar journey of pain and disappointment on his way to joy and fulfillment was so rewarding for me. In my own way, I’ve been there.

Like Father, Like Son

This film was directed by the son of T.C. Christensen, who directed one of my favorite short films of all time: The Touch of the Master’s Hand. I just so happened to purchase a copy of it about a week before I watched Standout. I really enjoy many of T.C. Christensen’s movies, so it comes as no surprise that Tanner Christensen is following in his footsteps and making an excellent film himself.

If you get a chance, I highly recommend watching Standout: The Ben Kjar Story. Check out the trailer below. And prepare to stand up and cheer for this underdog.

This is the Deja Reviewer bidding you farewell until we meet again.

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