"Sheepdog," a movie about veterans overcoming post-traumatic stress, is out in theaters Jan. 16, 2026. (Teamhouse Studios)
The filmmaker said the project began after a chance encounter in 2011 with a tow truck driver who shared his struggles tied to military service. That conversation, he said, led him to travel the country listening to veterans and families describe life after war.
Grayhm said feedback from veterans who have seen the film largely has been positive, particularly from those who said they felt their experiences were accurately reflected.
"Having Vietnam veterans stand up in front of a full auditorium, and in tears saying, ‘You guys nailed it,’" Grayhm said. "To have OIF and OEF veterans say, ‘I wish I had this film 10 years ago to show my family why I am the way I am,'" he said, referring to the Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom military campaigns in Iraq and Afghanistan as part of the Global War on Terror.
Dominic Fumusa, who plays a police officer and former coach who remains involved in the veteran’s life, said the film addresses an issue that remains unresolved for many service members long after they return from deployment. (Teamhouse Studios )
"It really does take a team, it takes a village, it takes a community," he said.
Grayhm said one of the film’s goals is to move beyond common portrayals of trauma and focus on the possibility of recovery over time.
"This film is not a post-traumatic stress movie," Grayhm said. "It’s so important to highlight post-traumatic growth."
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As "Sheepdog" opens nationwide, Grayhm said he hopes it prompts more direct conversations between civilians and veterans outside of formal settings.
"Perhaps rather than ‘thank you for your service,’ simply, ‘How are you doing?’" he said.
https://www.foxnews.com/politics/sheepdog-shines-light-war-after-war-veterans-continue-struggle-life-back-home