’23 Blast,’ movie based on Corbin football player, to hit theaters this fall

A promo poster for 23 Blast.

Corbin will soon be hitting the silver screen. 

“23 Blast,” the story of Travis Freeman, a former Redhound football player who lost his sight after contracting meningitis, is set to open in 600 theaters nationwide beginning Oct. 3. 

The film, which was shot entirely on-location in Corbin and premiered at Tri-County Cineplex with a red carpet event back in September, had been surrounded by questions of whether it would ever reach screens across the country due to lack of interest by distribution companies. Finally, Ocean Avenue Entertainment, a company in association with Toy Gun Films, picked it up.

“It’s been a humbling opportunity that I never really dreamed would happen,” said Freeman. “It’s not just a ‘once in a lifetime’ occurrence. This is something that most people don’t ever have happen. It was an amazing experience and I think they really have something special with this movie.”

Mark Hapka of “Days of Our Lives” fame portrays Freeman in the movie. Other names include Bram Hoover, Stephen Lang and Max Adler, with Dylan Baker serving as director. But according to Freeman, one of the biggest stars isn’t whom one might expect.

“I feel that Corbin is more than just the backdrop of the movie; Corbin is a character in the movie. And I think it is really portrayed well how the community surrounded me and my family and rallied around us.”

Co-writer/producer, Toni Hoover, had nothing but praises for how much support everyone involved with the production received from the town.

“It was a superb experience because the people in Corbin just opened their arms to the concept and the whole production—cast and crew—was overwhelmed how it was received by the town. No one could ever do enough for us and everywhere we went people were friendly. It was just a perfect, wonderful experience for everyone involved,” said Hoover. 

Football may be a strong theme in “23 Blast,” but the real heart of the movie chronicles Freeman’s struggles with having to suddenly deal with such a large obstacle in his life and how he prospers and overcomes despite the misfortune.

“I always felt like it was a wonderful story that needed to be told. It’s a film of encouragement, no matter who you are or what you’re doing, and when you’re watching it, it’s inspirational,” said Hoover.

“23 Blast” received the Audience Choice Award for Narrative Feature in October at the Heartland Film Festival in Indianapolis, Ind.