Tanner Christensen and Ben Kjar Talk About the World Premiere of Their Documentary ‘Standout: The Ben Kjar Story‘ at Slamdance Film Festival.
I had the opportunity to speak with Writer/Director Tanner Christensen and Ben Kjar, the first-ever NCAA Division I All-American for Utah Central University, about their upcoming documentary, ‘Standout: The Ben Kjar Story‘. Set to have its world premiere on Sunday, February 23, 2025, at the Slamdance Film Festival in Los Angeles, CA, the film chronicles the incredible journey of Ben Kjar, who was born with Crouzon Syndrome, a rare craniofacial disorder that causes significant physical challenges. From the moment Ben was born, doctors warned that his life would be fraught with limitations, societal rejection, and harsh scrutiny. Yet Ben,
with an unyielding determination, set his sights on living a life free of judgment and harassment—dreaming of an ordinary existence in a world that often viewed him as different.
The documentary delves into the adversity Kjar faced as he grew up. His life was marked by relentless bullying and numerous painful surgeries, but each obstacle only fueled his inner fire. As he struggled to navigate the challenges posed by his physical appearance and the harsh realities of societal expectations, Ben discovered that wrestling provided a powerful outlet. It became his proving ground, a place where he could transform his physical differences into sources of strength and resilience.
Through his journey on the mat, Kjar learned to push past the physical limitations his condition imposed. His experiences in wrestling were not just about mastering the sport; they were about breaking down the walls that once seemed insurmountable—physical, emotional, and social barriers. He faced his toughest battles not only against opponents but also within himself, as he worked to overcome the ridicule and doubts that continued to follow him. Yet, despite these hardships, Ben kept going. His relentless pursuit of success, his drive to overcome obstacles, and his determination to prove that he was more than his condition set him on a path toward an extraordinary life.
As the story unfolds, ‘Standout: The Ben Kjar Story‘ brings us to a defining crossroads in Kjar’s journey. With the relentless challenges and ridicule still haunting him, Ben faces a choice: to retreat into the background of a “normal” life, attempting to blend in, or to embrace his differences fully and step into the spotlight—boldly standing out. It is this pivotal moment that captures the essence of ‘Standout‘.
A key aspect of the film is the support system that has been with Kjar every step of the way. His immediate and extended family have been crucial in helping him navigate the difficulties of his condition and the personal battles that came with it. Their unwavering love and belief in him have been central to his ability to endure and rise above the challenges he faced.
Ben Kjar facing off against Anthony Robles in the 125 lbs weight class in NCAA Division I Champions, in 2011.
The documentary also highlights Kjar’s remarkable wrestling journey, including his pivotal match in 2011 against NCAA Division I champion Anthony Robles, who himself overcame significant physical limitations. This moment serves as a profound reminder of the power of resilience and determination in the face of adversity. As someone who understands the struggles of being a wrestler, this battle is especially meaningful to me. Wrestling, for all its physical and emotional challenges, teaches athletes to push past limitations, both real and perceived. For me, as a brother-of-the-mat with Kjar, his journey resonates deeply. ‘Standout‘ is not only a story of overcoming personal struggles but also one of camaraderie, brotherhood, and the shared experience of perseverance that defines every wrestler’s path.
Kjar’s story is one of ultimate triumph, proving that with resilience, support, and an unshakeable belief in oneself, it’s possible to not just survive, but to thrive—standing out in a world that often demands conformity. ‘Standout: The Ben Kjar Story‘ is not just a documentary; it’s a celebration of courage, family, and the strength that lies in embracing what makes us different.
To find out more about ‘Standout: The Ben Kjar Story‘ visit their official website at https://standoutfilm.com/.
To purchase tickets for ‘Standout: The Ben Kjar Story‘ at Slamdance Film Festival visit https://slamdance2025.eventive.org/.
Follow Ben Kjar on Instagram @benkjar.
