EXCLUSIVE MOVIE INTERVIEW: Overcomer highlights identity and rediscovering God’s love

04 Jul 2019

By Amanda Murthy

Some of the cast members in a scene from Overcomer, set to hit Australian cinemas on 22 August. Photo: Supplied.

Filled with a powerful mix of faith, a twist of humour and a ton of heart, the Kendrick Brothers return to cinemas with Overcomer, their newest feature following Facing the Giants, Fireproof, Courageous, and the number one US Box office hit War Room.

Life changes overnight for Coach John Harrison (Alex Kendrick) when his high school basketball team and state championship dreams are crushed under the weight of unexpected news.

When the largest manufacturing plant shuts down and hundreds of families leave their town, John questions how he and his family will face an uncertain future. He eventually reluctantly agrees to Coach a cross-country team.

John and his wife Amy (Shari Rigby) meet aspiring athlete Hannah Scott (played by Aryn Wright-Thompson), who is struggling with her own journey.

Aryn Wright-Thompson (left) plays an aspiring athlete who is pushing her limits on a journey towards discovering herself. Photo: Supplied.

Inspired by the words and prayers of a new-found friend, John becomes the least likely coach helping the least likely runner attempt the impossible in the biggest race of the year.

Actress Shari Rigby explained her role and the powerful message Overcomer delivers to viewers of all ages, in an exclusive interview with The Record.

“This movie is a powerful story about rediscovering the love of the Father and understanding who you are,” she said.

“Throughout the movie, viewers will get to journey with the characters to explore themes of forgiveness, family, marriage – It is really the essence of running the race.”

Shari said she felt extremely blessed to be able to work with the Kendrick Brothers to play Amy Harrison, a character she said was relatable to her and other women on many levels.

“I fell in love with Amy because she is a strong, supportive wife who is confident in herself,” she added.

“She’s funny, not afraid to call out on her husband when he’s wrong, at the same time Amy is a humble spirit.

Shari Rigby character Amy plays the wife of coach John Harrison in the latest Kendrick Brothers movie OVERCOMER. Photo: Supplied.

As a believer of the Christian faith, Shari hopes Overcomer will remind people of who they are and encourage them to run the race that God has set before them.

“We go through different seasons in our lives and we have to be reminded that it is so important to look to God when we are going through challenges, let Him guide us, so that we can fix our eyes on Him again,” Shari concluded.

Overcomer will be released in Australian cinemas on 22 August 2019.