Had the opportunity to catch the premier of "Hamill" at the AFI Film Festival and was very impressed. Speaking from experience in the developmental disabilities field, I resonated with the obstacles depicted in the film. The filmmakers & cast were fantastic at keeping away from the trap of being a charity case and kept on pushing as anyone with passion and struggles would. With solid performances from Russell Harvard, Shoshannah Stern & Michael Anthony Spady, the story flowed organically with our hero Matt going for his gold but ultimately being let down, sending him onto a different path. He realizes he must take several steps back in order to move forward along with a new love interest. With the help of his loved ones, He rises victorious as the first deaf wrestler to take the national collegiate title. "Hamill" did a fine job of bringing me deeper into the world of the hearing impaired and wrestling without holding my hand. I hope this film sees a wide release so it can educate, inspire, and continue to break ground.
Review of The Hammer
