By Friendswood ISD
Communication Department
Friendswood High School (FHS) Alumni and former faculty member Richard “Richie” Ramsey (class of 1995) has written and co-directed his latest feature film, Unsung Hero, which is scheduled for release on April 26, 2024 by Lionsgate and produced by Kingdom Story Company.
Unsung Hero is the back story of Kingdom + Country – The Christian ‘Pop’ Duo.
Ramsey is a Friendswood theatre student active in UIL One Act Play and Friendswood High School Musical. With a BA in Theatre from the University of Houston, Ramsey spent his early career impacting the independent film world in Texas. Ramsey returned to FHS to teach Film production and assisted in directing for FHS Theatre.
His feature film debut, The Song, was released in 2014 in theaters nationwide. He is the co-writer and co-director of the upcoming feature film, Unsung Hero. His comedic short films, done in collaboration with his brother, John (class of 1998), have been featured in numerous film festivals and websites, including NYT, HuffPo, LA Times, CBS News, The Atlantic, and IFC.
After a six-year tenure as Artistic Director of the award-winning City on a Hill Studio, Ramsey relocated to Nashville, where he served three years on the creative staff of Kingdom Story Company. He and his wife still live in Nashville and have five children, all named after Beatles songs.
ABOUT UNSUNG HERO
“Unsung Hero” is an inspiring tale of resilience and hope that charts the journey of the Smallbone family from the shores of Australia to the heart of America. After the collapse of his music company, David Smallbone, portrayed by Joel Smallbone of for KING + COUNTRY, along with his pregnant wife Helen, played by Daisy Betts, and their seven children, embark on a daring move to the United States.
Armed with nothing but their luggage, a shared love for music, and unyielding faith, the family seeks to rebuild their shattered lives.
Set for release in the United States on April 26, 2024, “Unsung Hero” is directed by Joel Smallbone and Richard Ramsey, with Lionsgate handling distribution.
The film’s poignant and uplifting score is crafted by Brent McCorkle, ensuring that music plays a pivotal role in narrating the Smallbones’ story. Produced by Justin Tolley, Josh Walsh, and Luke Smallbone, and brought to the screen by Kingdom Story Company and Candy Rock Entertainment, this film promises a heartwarming cinematic experience.
“Unsung Hero” delves deep into the challenges and triumphs of the Smallbone family as they navigate their new environment. Helen’s unwavering faith becomes a beacon of hope for her family, inspiring her husband and children to cling to their own beliefs even when their dreams seem out of reach.
t’s this foundation of faith that ignites the musical talent within their children, ultimately leading them to become two of the most acclaimed acts in the world of Inspirational Music. The story not only celebrates their eventual success—highlighted by GRAMMY awards for both for KING + COUNTRY and Rebecca St. James—but also pays homage to the silent sacrifices made by David and Helen