This movie proved to be a real "sleeper". Mark Hapka (Days of Our Lives, Ghost Whisperer, Deadly Revenge) gives a most credible performance as an aspiring professional football player who suddenly goes blind due to a serious and spreading nasal infection. His road to recovery might seem trite at first glance, but life and this film take an unexpected and interesting turn. Without giving anything away, this real life story has a double ending - and both are highly satisfying. For those who have ever seen the film EL CID starring Charlton Heston and Sophia Loren, the finale of 23BLAST is reminiscent in a distant way of the former. There are many paths to victory; and perseverance, combined with confidence, trust, and unorthodoxy proves to be one of them. Mark Hapka stars as Travis Freeman, a man whose true life experience is retold in 23BLAST. The second ending to this movie which I alluded to earlier deals with the spiritual side of TF, whereas the former highlights his physical one. However, they are not inseparable. Freeman's relationship with his boyhood friend and fellow football player, Jerry Baker, is poignant and important. The latter is a struggling addict when it comes to booze and drugs. And despite the best efforts of Freeman, Baker's behavior couldn't be modified and ultimately ends badly (not shown in the movie but told in the DVD's special features). Several of the actors do double duty which is commendable. Bram Hoover is both a co-writer with his mother as well as comporting himself well in the role of Jerry Baker. Dylan Baker (no relation to Jerry) is both the director of the film and plays the part of Freeman's father. A most worthwhile and rewarding viewing experience!