"Standout: The Ben Kjar Story" Opening in Theaters on Jan. 23

The incredible story of Utah Valley University All-American wrestler Ben Kjar hits the silver screen in theaters across the nation this Friday, Jan. 23.

From the movie synopsis, "Standout: The Ben Kjar Story" tells the inspiring story of Kjar, born with Crouzon Syndrome, a rare craniofacial disorder. From birth, doctors warned that his life would be dominated by limitations, bullying and harsh scrutiny. Despite that prognosis, Ben yearned for an ordinary life free from judgment and harassment.

However, each experience of adversity, including relentless bullying and a series of painful surgeries, ignited a fire within him. Wrestling became his proving ground, a place where he learned to transform his facial difference into a source of power. Determined to succeed, he pushed himself relentlessly, breaking through physical, social, and even romantic barriers that once seemed insurmountable.

But as unexpected challenges arose and ridicule resurfaced, Ben found himself at a defining crossroads: fade into the background of a "normal" life, or fully embrace his difference and boldly stand out.

Kjar wrestled at Utah Valley from 2006-11 and in 2011 became the program's first-ever NCAA Wrestling All-American when he placed fourth at the championships. In 2023 he became a World Champion in Greco-Roman at the Veterans World Championships in Greece.