(Written by Intern, Aaron Koschoff-Rapkin)
Director Jon Gunn is no stranger to inspiring stories. His previous works, The Case of Christ and Do You Believe, are uplifting dramas about finding faith during difficult times, and here is no exception. Rather than finding material solely through Christianity, Gunn sources it from the moving story of the Schmitt family. While Ordinary Angels aspires to be hopeful, it falls flat in nearly every aspect, barring performances.
Michelle Schmitt is in desperate need of medical treatment for worsening kidney problems just days after her mother’s tragic death. With medical bills piling up on top of health issues, the Schmitts are in a crisis. Her father, Ed (Alan Ritchson, Fast X), gets relieved when a down-on-her-luck hairdresser Sharon (Hilary Swank, Million Dollar Baby, Boys Don’t Cry) hears about the family’s tragedy and decides to assist no matter the ask. They both work to raise money for Michelle’s kidney transplant, while Sharon battles alcoholism in an attempt to reconnect with her son. Unfortunately, the odds are not always in their favor, and a massive snowstorm halts Michelle’s transportation to Omaha for a life-saving transplant. Will she make it to the hospital in time?
Swank leads the cast with a sharp portrayal of Sharon. Her unwavering commitment to the well-being of Michelle feels genuine, and provides the story’s emotional core. Sharon’s actions may reach unusual extremes, but Swank remains grounded throughout. Another highlight comes with Ritchson’s depiction of Ed Schmitt. Alan’s emotionally charged moments make his connection to Swank even more engaging, representing Ed’s struggle between acting as a protector and accepting assistance. During an intense scene in the final act when Ed battles the brutal snowstorm, nothing can hold him back. Highlighting Ritchson’s perseverance as Ed keeps the audience on the edge of their seats.
Unfortunately, the positives end here. Gunn presents us with little to no filmmaking finesse to make this adaptation work. He lacks a commitment to genre tone. Gunn attempts to find a balance between a family drama and a story of hope, but neither have been fleshed out properly. Michelle’s experience is overtaken by unnecessary minor character arcs, leaving her a background character in her own story. Ordinary Angels cares more about resolving family issues than saving Michelle’s life.
In addition, neither the cinematography nor the musical elements are impressive. Gunn prioritizes character close-ups, with the setting becoming the backdrop to the story and nothing more. The natural beauty of Louisville hides until the third act, leaving the rest devoid of the charm the city has to offer. The score is also forgettable, using upbeat instrumentals when required and sad music to highlight intended emotional dips. What could have been an opportunity to experiment with new ideas becomes another marker of missed potential.
Gunn seems to find his creativity in motivational stories, but his attempt to tug on the heartstrings falls flat. Deliberate poignant moments feel forced and manipulative. By the time Ordinary Angels concludes, only a mixed bag of ideas and fake positivity to sort through remains. Despite depicting regular people as inherent heroes, Swank and Ritchson are not enough to save this mess.
Witness a blizzard of banality when Ordinary Angels arrive in theaters on Friday, February 23rd.
