“Sheepdog,” written and directed by Steven Grayhm, is a new film that raises awareness on veterans with PTSD.
Steven Grayhm stars as combat veteran Calvin Cole in this movie alongside Oscar nominee Virginia Madsen as Dr. Elecia Knox, Emmy nominee Vondie Curtis Hall, Tony nominee Lilli Cooper, Matt Dallas (“Kyle XY”), and Dominic Fumusa.
Virginia Madsen is sublime as Elecia, his trauma therapist at the VA office and she serves as the voice of reason along with Vondie Curtis Hall who pulls off a subtle and controlled performance as Whitney St. Germain, a retired Gunnery Sergeant of the U.S. Marine Corps.
Lilli Cooper is devastating in the role of Alice St. Germain, while Matt Dallas is tremendous as Darryl Sparks, in an unforgettable performance where he is not afraid to be raw, sincere, and vulnerable. It feels like watching “Winter’s Bone” all over again, and Dallas is equal in excellence to the acting of John Hawkes.
Every single person in this cast is given their own characterization, and they all bring something distinct to the table. Grayhm’s resonant script fulfills the ensemble cardinal rule for a drama.
It explores the physical, social, and psychological effects of trauma with an emphasis on PTSD. It will certainly keep the audience at the edge of their seats, and in several scenes, they ought to have the Kleenex handy.
The Verdict
Overall, “Sheepdog” is a compelling, eye-opening film that pushes the envelope; moreover, it will spark conversations with viewers, and it will stick with them well after the end credits roll.
Strong performances led by Steven Grayhm and Virginia Madsen give this gripping movie its beating heart.
Compliments to Grahym as a screenwriter for not sugarcoating the raw and unflinching subject matter that is presented in this intense film, and doing it in an engaging and authentic manner.
As a whole, “Sheepdog” is timely, relevant and emotional as it underscores the significance of having a support system (especially for our veterans) in an effort to help them grow and recover from past trauma.
Steven Grayhm has found the means to go beyond the ordinary, and he expanded and redefined contemporary storytelling by shedding light on our unsung heroes, the ever-increasing population of our veterans.
It underscores such values as hope, family, recovery, redemption, love, faith and healing.
Hopefully, this feature film will inspire others to give the veterans the proper respect, care, and attention they deserve (in an effort to prevent veteran suicides). “Sheepdog” garners 4.5 out of 5 stars. Well done.
To learn more about the movie “Sheepdog,” visit its official website.
