Chase Stokes and Lana Condor Take Center Stage in "Valiant One" – A Military Story of Faith and Sacrifice
The highly anticipated film "Valiant One," featuring Chase Stokes of "Outer Banks" fame and Lana Condor from "To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before," is set to hit theaters on January 30. This gripping thriller, produced by Monarch Media, aims to honor the brave men and women of the military while intertwining themes of leadership, sacrifice, and faith.
The narrative kicks off with a routine mission that spirals into chaos when a U.S. Army helicopter crashes deep in North Korean territory. Leading a team of non-combat tech specialists is Captain Edward Brockman, who must rally his crew to escort a civilian tech specialist across the perilous Demilitarized Zone while facing hostile North Korean forces.
Director Steve Barnett, making his directorial debut, shared that the inspiration for "Valiant One" came from an unexpected reunion with a former high school friend who served as a Navy SEAL master chief. "I wanted to tell a military story, but from the perspective of regular soldiers who find themselves in extraordinary situations," Barnett explained. This unique angle allows the film to explore the journey of those who typically work behind the scenes, emphasizing that heroism can emerge from the most unlikely places.
While "Valiant One" is not classified as a faith-based film, it does incorporate significant religious elements, most notably the inclusion of the Lord’s Prayer in a pivotal scene. Barnett and producer Alan Powell emphasized that faith plays a crucial role in the lives of many soldiers, reflecting their personal struggles and triumphs.
Powell noted the film’s relevance in today’s military landscape, particularly as the U.S. Army faces recruitment challenges. "With Chase and Lana leading the cast, we believe the film will resonate with younger audiences," he stated. The U.S. Army recognized the film’s potential as a recruitment tool, given its pro-military message and focus on leadership.
One of the film’s key themes is the idea of the reluctant hero. Barnett elaborated, "We wanted to portray soldiers who are more accustomed to desk jobs than combat, showing how they can rise to the occasion when it matters most." This approach offers a fresh perspective on military life, highlighting the humanity and vulnerability of those who serve.
In addition to its action-packed sequences, "Valiant One" aims for authenticity. The filmmakers took care to depict military culture realistically, avoiding gratuitous violence while staying true to the experiences of service members. A particularly striking scene involves soldiers witnessing an atrocity but being forced to remain hidden, aligning with real-world rules of engagement.
The film also emphasizes shared humanity, as illustrated in a tense encounter between soldiers and a North Korean family. Barnett explained, "It was important to show that love and family transcend politics. Despite being on opposite sides, they recognize their common bonds."
The creators at Monarch Media are no strangers to impactful storytelling. Their previous projects, including the faith-based musical "A Week Away," which topped Netflix charts, and the upcoming "Journey to Bethlehem," showcase their commitment to narratives that resonate with audiences. Barnett and Powell are also working on "Tangles," an animated dark comedy featuring big names like Seth Rogen and Julia Louis-Dreyfus, as well as a modern reimagining of the book of Acts titled "Testament."
As "Valiant One" prepares for its theatrical release, it promises to deliver a powerful message about courage, faith, and the complexities of military life. With its blend of action and heartfelt moments, the film is set to leave a lasting impression on viewers. Be sure to catch it in theaters starting January 30, and watch for the trailer to get a sneak peek of the thrilling journey ahead.