We interview Mark Wahlberg, Peter Berg and more for Patriots Day!

Last Updated on July 31, 2021

The 2013 Boston Marathon bombing was one of the most terrifying events in recent history. And to be honest, I was a bit nervous about watching a feature film about it only three years later. However, Peter Berg's latest, PATRIOTS DAY, is a compelling look at the tragedy. Thankfully, it also shows the incredible spirit of the people of Boston and all those that came to rescue the injured and give support. This is the kind of thing that gives one faith that there are a ton of good people out there. The film, featuring Mark Wahlberg, Melissa Benoist, Michelle Monaghan, J.K. Simmons and more, is a celebration of the spirit of the people who did all they could to bring those responsible to justice.

During the junket for the new film, we spoke to Wahlberg and Berg about why they wanted to tell this story so soon. Mark Wahlberg, one of Boston's own, gave us his own personal story about going back home a day after it happened. Berg opened up about the stories he wanted to tell in this film. It is easy to see that the two had every intention of celebrating Boston Pride – as well as create a powerful historical piece – and they did a terrific job doing so. Nearly every fear I had about this film feeling exploitative in any way was gone very early on. Yes it is heartbreaking, but the director handles the material thoughtfully. Although there is a ton of suspense as they search for the men who committed this heinous act.

Next up we spoke to Silicon Valley star Jimmy O. Yang and Themo Melikidze who will be appearing in the upcoming 24 reboot. Melikidze discussed playing a role like Tamerlan Tsarnaev, one of the men involved in the terrorist attack. He opened up about playing a real life character, one who could do such a thing, and whether or not you must feel sympathy for a role like that as an actor. Jimmy, who has a pretty awesome name, talked about playing a surprisingly heroic character and working opposite Themo in one of the most intense scenes in the film.

Finally we sat down with the immensely talented Michael Beach. If the name isn't familiar to you, his work sure is. The actor has well over one hundred credits to his name including a ton of cool projects such as Sons of Anarchy and Third Watch, as well as appearances in movies like THE ABYSS, TRUE ROMANCE and INSIDIOUS: CHAPTER 2. Mr. Beach talked about taking on a project dealing with this very serious subject and working with Peter Berg. This cast is terrific, and Peter Berg gives us a very powerful film about a time in history that we won't soon forget.

PATRIOTS DAY opens this weekend at a theater near you.