Wish Man

Wish Man is a 2019 biographical drama film that carefully threads its narrative around the actions and impacts of humanitarian Frank Shankwitz. Lead actor Andrew Steel delivers an enthralling performance as Frank Shankwitz, a man who turned his harrowing experiences into a life-changing organization that carries significant global influence today. Kirby Bliss Blanton and Tom Sizemore also grace the screen in supporting roles, intensifying the film's emotional pull with their moving performances.

Throughout its duration, Wish Man puts audiences in the shoes of Shankwitz, the co-founder of the Make-A-Wish Foundation, guiding them through his extraordinary life while revealing the incredible stories of determination and compassion that built the famous non-profit organization. The film successfully combines emotional depth, stellar performances, and an inspiring narrative to deliver an unforgettable cinematic experience.

Set in 1950s Arizona, the film commences with glimpses from Shankwitz's childhood. He is depicted as a boy shut out from the world due to a bitter divorce between his parents, a prolonged event that leaves a lasting mark on his upbringing. Overwhelmed by feelings of abandonment, he soon develops a liking for motorcycles, leading him to seek solace in the open roads of the American Southwest, bolstered by a rebellious spirit and an unwavering desire for freedom.

Years later, Frank finds himself working as a motorcycle cop in Arizona, going through the grueling motions of a volatile life. With numerous upheavals, incidents, crashes, and rises, it becomes apparent that the rebellious boy turned adult is still nursing residual wounds from his youth. The film embodies dark edges showing the protagonist dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder, lending a detailed portrait of a man grappling with his inner demons whilst navigating through the trials and tribulations of his life.

Eventually, life takes a turn for Frank when he has a near-death experience. The life-altering experience propels him to reconsider his purpose on the earth. It is through this profound realization Frank transitions, culminating in the creation of the world-renowned Make-A-Wish Foundation. The film underscores the birth and growth of the foundation, highlighting its unyielding dedication and efficacy in fulfilling the dreams of terminally ill children, providing Wish Man's narrative with an overwhelming emotional arc.

Although the movie has its fair share of dark moments, it skillfully balances the narrative with components of uplifting positivity, kindness, and self-reflection. Never shying away from depicting the authentic odds Frank endured, Wish Man offers audiences an intimate look at how profoundly traumatic experiences can blossom into phenomenal, world-changing initiatives given the right direction and unshakeable resolve.

The film pays detailed attention to character portrayal with Andrew Steel capturing the essence of Frank's strength and vulnerability impeccably. Steel maneuvers through both the darkest and brightest facets of Frank's life with an authoritative command over his craft, offering a captivating performance appreciated by critics and audiences alike. Kirby Bliss Blanton and Tom Sizemore each deliver exceptional performances, serving as robust cogs in an elaborate, well-oiled machine.

The director, Theo Davies, employs a realist approach to filmmaking, crafting an original narrative that feels authentically raw yet polished. He presents a story of resilience and transformation, galvanizing audiences with its deep, intimate exploration of inner struggles, resolve, compassion, and the magic of granting wishes.

Wish Man is not just a film; it's a journey through a tumultuous life navigated with grit and determination. The movie skirts around sentimentality without succumbing to cliché, painting a heartfelt cinematic exploration into a man's journey from dealing with personal turmoil to dedicating his life to granting the heartfelt wishes of children in a way that celebrates and accentuates the power of humanity, turning adversity into hope.

In essence, Wish Man is a poignant biographical drama that shines a spotlight on the incredible life and insurmountable legacy of Frank Shankwitz. It is a powerfully moving tribute to a man whose aim was not just to survive, but to leave the world better than he found it. A must-see film for anyone seeking an insightful exploration of the power of dreams, dedication, and the incredible potential of compassion in shaping our world.