Ordinary Angels, the critically acclaimed drama featuring Hilary Swank and Alan Ritchson, has officially arrived on Netflix. Originally released in 2024, the film, directed by Jon Gunn, tells the inspiring true story of Sharon Stevens Evans, a Kentucky hairdresser who became an advocate for five-year-old Michelle Schmitt, a little girl in desperate need of a life-saving liver transplant after the loss of her mother.
In an effort to save Michelle, Evans initiated a significant fundraising campaign in 1994, rallying the entire community to support the Schmitt family. Her heartfelt experiences were later detailed in her memoir, titled Ordinary Angels, published in 2023.
In the film adaptation, Swank portrays the determined Evans, while Ritchson plays Ed Schmitt, the widowed father of Michelle and her sister Ashley. The ensemble cast also features Nancy Travis, Tamala Jones, Drew Powell, Nancy Sorel, and Amy Acker.
During a chat with TODAY, Swank expressed her admiration for Evans, describing her as a larger-than-life figure who embodies both strength and vulnerability. “She’s flawed and imperfect, like we all are,” Swank shared. “She loses her faith and then finds her truest purpose by helping this family and this young girl, leading her to regain her faith.”
Ordinary Angels has been well-received by critics, holding a Certified Fresh score of 84% on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics have praised the film for its emotional depth and ability to handle its inspirational themes without becoming overly sentimental. Variety noted the film’s skillful balance of sweetness and poignancy, stating, “Even cynics will be won over by the human kindness on display.”
The Hollywood Reporter echoed this praise, highlighting the film’s compelling narrative that revolves around community solidarity in times of need. “This film proves irresistible with its powerful feel-good story,” they remarked.
Ritchson’s performance as Ed has also garnered attention, with The Washington Post describing him as an unexpected standout—portraying a devoted father in a way that adds significant warmth to the film’s emotional journey.
Ordinary Angels is now available to stream on Netflix, and viewers will find that its heartfelt message about community support and resilience resonates in a world often yearning for hope.