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23 Blast

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23 Blast

PG-13

Released Oct 24, 2014

1h 38m

Drama

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Tomatometer

Popcornmeter

36%

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22 Reviews

66%

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2,500+ Ratings

As a typical teenager, Travis Freeman (Mark Hapka) is a local hero both on and off the high-school football field in his small Kentucky town, but in 1997, Travis contracts an infection that destroys his optic nerve and renders him blind overnight. With the loving help and concern of his parents, physical therapist, coach and best friend, Travis demonstrates what true bravery is: He continues to compete on the gridiron and helps his team advance to the state finals.

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Critics Consensus

The real life story that inspired 23 Blast is undeniably heartwarming -- but the movie itself is too predictable and amateurish to recommend.

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Jordan Hoffman

Guardian

A football field is rectangular, but this movie's is hopelessly square.

Rated: 2/5

Oct 24, 2014

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Bill Edelstein

Variety

A fairly predictable yarn that's lighthearted and well-acted, if cast mostly with characters that are little more than tackling dummies.

Oct 24, 2014

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Robert Abele

Los Angeles Times

By-the-numbers inspirational trudgework.

Oct 23, 2014

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Bernard Boo

Way Too Indie

23 Blast may not be a good movie, but it's honest about what it is and doesn't pander to wider audiences looking for edginess and cynicism.

Rated: 5/10

Mar 22, 2019

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Todd Jorgenson

Cinemalogue

Despite some solid performances and gritty game footage, emotionally it falls short of the end zone.

Oct 31, 2014

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Barbara Shulgasser

Common Sense Media

Inspiring true-life tale about blind football player.

Rated: 3/5

Oct 24, 2014

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Melinda M

This was a compelling story based off the real life of a young man who goes blind. I feel like a few of the negative reviews are because this young nmn had faith in God.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

08/25/24

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SkyRo P

In my view, this film was quite enjoyable, although there were instances where it could have explored the narrative more thoroughly. Nonetheless, I think it accomplished its goals and was executed effectively. It's surprising to see the low ratings and unfavorable critiques from others, as I believe the film stays true to its intentions. While it may have its imperfections, it certainly does not warrant the severe backlash it has received. "23 Blast" is a solid film that deserves a watch. I encourage you to give it a chance and see for yourself that it has its own strengths. While it may not be a revolutionary work of art, it’s a film that you can appreciate and enjoy. In general, sports films, particularly those centered around football, have the potential to be quite compelling. You just need to understand how the story is presented. This film was actually quite good given its premise, and I feel it's being unfairly criticized by reviewers.

Rated 3.5 out of 5 stars

01/04/25

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Jerod S

How do you play football after going blind? Not super well, but it's a good story based on a Kentucky football player that eventually went into ministry.

Rated 2.5 out of 5 stars

02/21/23

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ps 9

Such and inspiring movie! Even more the fact that it is based on true events.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

02/19/23

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trina f

It's a very inspiring movie. It makes one realize that life can be what we make of it. God always has a plan.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

03/30/23

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Audience Member

The main character actually does a decent job acting as a blind person. Has some well known actors that are in this B-movie. Some moments are charming, but some are forced. The movie tends to switch moods and tones inconsistently. Overall a movie that you can enjoy but its takes someone who is fan of sports movies and dramas to love.

Rated 2.5 out of 5 stars

02/21/23

Full Review

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Dylan Baker

Director

Stephen Lang

Coach Farris

Alexa PenaVega

Ashley

Mark Hapka

Travis Freeman

Max Adler

Cameron

Kim Zimmer

Mary Freeman

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Synopsis

As a typical teenager, Travis Freeman (Mark Hapka) is a local hero both on and off the high-school football field in his small Kentucky town, but in 1997, Travis contracts an infection that destroys his optic nerve and renders him blind overnight. With the loving help and concern of his parents, physical therapist, coach and best friend, Travis demonstrates what true bravery is: He continues to compete on the gridiron and helps his team advance to the state finals.

Director: Dylan Baker
Producer: Gary Donatelli, Toni Hoover, Dylan Baker
Screenwriter: Toni Hoover, Bram Hoover
Distributor: Ocean Avenue Entertainment
Production Co: Touchdown Productions, Toy Gun Films
Rating: PG-13 (Some Teen Drinking)
Genre: Drama
Original Language: English
Release Date (Theaters): Oct 24, 2014, Wide
Release Date (Streaming): Jan 19, 2015
Box Office (Gross USA): $485.1K
Runtime: 1h 38m

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