Disclaimer: I was sent a screening link in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated in any way, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.

UNBROKEN: PATH TO REDEMPTION—in theaters September 14, 2018— is the inspiring and powerful continuation of Louis “Louie” Zamperini’s post-World War II story and his struggle to find peace and forgiveness after his ruthless treatment as a Japanese prisoner of war. While the story stands alone, the brand-new film picks up where 2014’s epic saga UNBROKEN ends, continuing the amazing true story of the Olympian and World War II hero.

Following the Allied victory in World War II, UNBROKEN: PATH TO REDEMPTION tells the story of Zamperini’s experiences returning to the United States. When the war ended, his real battle began. Haunted by nightmares of his torment, Louie sees himself as anything but a hero. Then, he meets Cynthia, a young woman who captures his eye—and his heart.

Louie’s wrathful quest for revenge drives him deeper into despair, putting the couple on the brink of divorce. Cynthia turns to God and prays for Louie to find peace and forgiveness.

“Seldom does a single life take two films to tell, but that is Louie Zamperini’s remarkable true story,” said Producer Matt Baer, who also produced Angelina Jolie’s UNBROKEN. “The original film shares the first half of his story with incredible detail, and viewers can now continue the extraordinary journey into his post-war struggles and redemption in the brand new film.

”Bringing to life the rest of this powerful real-life story of forgiveness, redemption and amazing grace, UNBROKEN: PATH TO REDEMPTION stars Samuel Hunt (Chicago P.D.) as Zamperini; Merritt Patterson (The Royals) as his wife, Cynthia; David Sakurai (Iron Fist) as Zamperini’s prison guard Watanabe/“The Bird”; Gary Cole (TALLADEGA NIGHTS: THE BALLAD OF RICKY BOBBY) as Dr. George Bailey; and Will Graham as his own grandfather, evangelist Billy Graham.

“I’ve never tried to be my father or my grandfather. I answered my own call to evangelism,” Will Graham, vice president of Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, said. “Now it’s an honor to portray my grandfather in a moment that changed Louie and began a friendship into old age.”

Laura Hillenbrand’s book, the source material for both films, spent four years on The New York Times best-seller list in hardcover including 15 weeks at No. 1. The paperback debuted and remained at No. 1 more than 20 weeks. The young-reader edition was another Times best-seller. The three-time Academy Award®-nominated film UNBROKEN opened to the third-best Christmas Day box office of all time, ultimately drawing nearly $165 million worldwide.

“Exploring the extraordinary post-war journey of Olympian and WWII POW Louis Zamperini, UNBROKEN: PATH TO REDEMPTION is a lyrical, profoundly moving film, a story told with integrity, honesty and compelling beauty,” Hillenbrand said.

UNBROKEN: PATH TO REDEMPTION is produced and released by Universal 1440 Entertainment, The WTA Group, and Pure Flix.

“The millions who read Laura Hillenbrand’s best-selling book or saw the first film, UNBROKEN, know and love this part of Louie’s story,” Executive Producer Bill Reeves, president of The WTA Group, said. “For Zamperini fans, UNBROKEN: PATH TO REDEMPTION shares the next chapter of Louie’s astonishing life and the inspirational love story that lies within.”

“Before Louie became an inspiration to so many veterans, before anyone knew what PTSD was, he overcame tremendous pain and hardship to find personal peace,” Glenn Ross, general manager and executive vice president, Universal 1440 Entertainment said. “UNBROKEN: PATH TO REDEMPTION is a powerful voice for those who struggle and, we hope, an encouragement to everyone.”

With a screenplay written by Richard Friedenberg (A RIVER RUNS THROUGH IT) and Kenneth Hixon (CITY BY THE SEA), UNBROKEN: PATH TO REDEMPTION is produced by Matthew Baer and Mike Elliott, directed by Harold Cronk, and executive produced by Dave Mechem, Luke Zamperini, Cynthia Garris, Erik Weir, Bill Reeve, and Michael Scott.

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My Review:  First of all, I did not see the first film Unbroken, but there were no issues with continuity or misunderstanding. The introduction of the movie is a perfect way to review and/or catch up with the story of the first movie. So don’t feel that you must stay away until you have watched the first movie because I had no problem following the story.

I was absolutely blown away by the story, the acting, and the cinematography of this one. While Christian/faith-based films have increased in their scope and quality in the past few years, this one was definitely on par with many of the other true stories I have seen in recent times. In fact, it easily rivaled the big-budget Hollywood films in every aspect.

The way in which the flashbacks were handled was incredibly powerful. The direction on this film was superb in that those moments, though difficult to watch and definitely not recommended for younger children, they were emotionally involving and never overtly gory. In fact, I was more disturbed by the abuse Cynthia received (mostly emotional abuse, but minimal physical abuse was shown). In fact, at one point, I had to pause the film because it was just too real. Having been in an emotionally abusive, borderline physically abusive marriage myself, I actually shouted, “I have no idea how that woman remained with him.” I know it is only by the grace of God.

I highly recommend bringing tissues with you. The conclusion is quite emotional, and I found myself captivated by every moment of the movie. I felt the pacing was perfect; I was never bored. I also never found the movie overly “preachy.” The faith-based element was perfectly woven into the framework of the story itself. Was Billy Graham’s grandson a good actor? I don’t know, but I believe that his performance was a loving tribute to his grandfather.

If you are looking for a film that will encourage you, motivate you, and inspire you to consider your own faith or lack thereof, I highly recommend this film. Please visit the links below for more information and/or to purchase tickets.

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