Chloé Zhao’s “Hamnet” dominates the San Diego International Film Festival and “Standout: The Ben Kjar Story” is honored among top documentaries
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Critics praise STANDOUT as “not just a sports documentary” but a life filled with challenges, hope, and love. Director Tanner Christensen’s “incredibly well edited” film weaves together interviews and dramatic reenactments into a “consistently engaging and inspiring watch” that will move you, excite you, and have you rooting for Ben to succeed through every up and down.
With no chance to live an ordinary life, he lived an extraordinary one!” Film critic Karen Pecota praises STANDOUT for its powerful message: our greatest challenges can become our greatest strengths. Director Tanner Christensen captures how Ben transformed adversity into power, breaking down barriers to become a beloved athlete and inspiring others to embrace their individuality with humility and grace
Ben Kjar brought his powerful message to Cokeville High School students in an amazing assembly about overcoming challenges and not letting others’ words determine who you become. Featured in the documentary STANDOUT: The Ben Kjar Story produced by T.C. Christensen, Ben’s journey of resilience and kindness continues inspiring students across the country.
Experience STANDOUT live! Join Ben Kjar for a free wrestling clinic at the University of Dubuque on April 26, featuring hands-on training, autographs, and Q&A—followed by the documentary’s premiere at the Julien Dubuque International Film Festival. The first 100 registered wrestlers receive free clinic admission and movie tickets. “This goes beyond wrestling—it’s about building grit, purpose, and perspective.”
Watch the exclusive world premiere trailer for STANDOUT: The Ben Kjar Story ahead of its Slamdance Film Festival debut. From writer/director Tanner Christensen and producer Jared Hess comes the powerful story of a wrestling champion who transformed adversity into strength. At a defining crossroads, Ben must choose: fade into the background or boldly stand out.
From A Minecraft Movie producer Jared Hess comes this Spirit of Slamdance Award-winning documentary proving “our differences aren’t weaknesses; they’re the very things that allow us to make a difference.” More than a sports story—it’s universal tale of choosing to stand out.
Against all odds, Ben Kjar transformed from a boy told he’d live a “different life” into a World Champion wrestler and international speaker inspiring millions. Now his incredible journey comes to life in the award-winning film STANDOUT, premiering January 23, 2026. Witness the story of a true victor who refused to be a victim.
rom praying to wake up with a “normal face” to embracing his difference as his greatest strength, Ben Kjar’s “hero’s journey” is powerfully chronicled in STANDOUT. Director Tanner Christensen captures the real story—lowlights and all—showing how Ben transformed from wanting to fit in to discovering that “the real flex” is standing out. A raw, authentic documentary about becoming your best self.
Even non-sports fans will be inspired by STANDOUT: The Ben Kjar Story. Director Tanner Christensen chronicles Ben’s journey from relentless childhood bullying to becoming Utah Valley University’s first Division I Wrestling All-American. Amazingly candid and ultimately uplifting, this feel-good documentary proves Ben refused to let Crouzon Syndrome pin him down—everyone loves a good underdog story.
