Jimmy Stewart Biopic 'Jimmy,' Starring KJ Apa, Sets Early Release in Select Theaters

Horror movies are currently haunting theaters everywhere in anticipation of Halloween this weekend. However, just one week after the height of spooky season, one of the most hotly anticipated biopics of the year will hit the big screen and serve as a fitting kick-off to the run-up to the holiday season. Jimmy, starring Riverdale's KJ Apa as silver screen legend and veteran Jimmy Stewart, officially debuts on November 6, bringing with it the untold story of how the It's a Wonderful Life star put his career on hold to serve his country. It comes on the heels of a very strong festival run, where critics have been showering Aaron Burns' portrait of service, stardom, and sacrifice.

Exploring the pivotal years of Stewart's life as he went from Oscar-winning icon of Hollywood's Golden Age to U.S. Army Air Corps combat pilot and commander in World War II, and eventually, George Bailey, Jimmy has already earned a few notable honors. The film took home both Best Feature at the Washington West Film Festival and the Audience Choice Award at the Heartland International Film Festival, sharing the latter with another much-hyped biopic, I Play Rocky. Apa wasn't without his flowers, winning the Spotlight Award at the Newport Beach Film Festival. Graham Fuller of the New York Film Critics' Circle was among the viewers wowed by the film, writing, "The astonishing KJ Apa captures the essence of Jimmy Stewart in his darkest hours — his courage, his integrity, and his unbreakable spirit." With so much excitement, Collider can exclusively announce that Burns & Co. Entertainment and Fathom Entertainment are opening theater doors a bit earlier than expected.

Starting this weekend, on Sunday, November 1, limited theaters throughout the U.S. will host special early bird presentations of Jimmy in celebration of the overwhelmingly positive reaction. Burns & Co. and Fathom are aiming to get the film in front of as many eyes as possible both because of the positive message it's built around and as a salute to the service of veterans like Stewart. As such, it was also previously announced that the distributors struck a partnership with Vet Tix to ensure veterans, first responders, and their families could get free access to screenings. So far, over $1 million in tickets have been given out nationwide, with more on the way starting early next month. Chief Executive Officer of Fathom Entertainment Jason Brenek expressed full confidence in the decision to launch the film sooner than expected, writing in an official statement:

"Jimmy is a moving theatrical experience with a brilliant performance of a Hollywood legend by KJ Apa in the title role. Fathom is very pleased to offer these special theatrical engagements on November 1 prior to its nationwide release on November 6. The legend of Jimmy Stewart is not just one of a brilliant Hollywood performer, but an inspirational one of patriotism, service and sacrifice that is to be celebrated — and Jimmy delivers in every way.”

'Jimmy' Follows Stewart Into the Creation of 'It's a Wonderful Life'

Burns & Co. also released a new sneak peek with less than a week before the film rolls out in limited theaters. It depicts the moment when Stewart is first pitched the idea of It's a Wonderful Life at Liberty Films. It would prove to be the perfect role at the perfect time, helping to let the disheartened veteran become "Jimmy Stewart" once more and create something that is still viewed as an all-time Christmas classic, but he had to be sold first. Initially, the appeal of a funny, yet meaningful story about a suicidal man saved by an angel-in-training wearing long underwear didn't quite hook Stewart. However, after being told with full confidence how the story would live on long after anyone behind it was dead, the smile appearing on his face says it all.

Jimmy also features Kara Killmer, Neal McDonough, Max Casella, Jason Alexander, Christopher McDonald, Sarah Drew, Rob Riggle, Julian Works, and Jen Lilley among the cast, with Justin Strawhand penning the script. Beyond the awards, Apa was a particular point of praise, with Today's Carson Daly likening the performance to that of Daniel Day-Lewis' towering Academy Award-winning turn in the lead role of Steven Spielberg's Lincoln. Jenelle Riley similarly gave a glowing review, adding that, "KJ Apa doesn't just portray Jimmy Stewart — he channels him. A superb performance of a true hero."

Early bird screenings for Jimmy open on November 1 in limited theaters before going wide on November 6. Tickets are on sale now. Check out a new sneak peek in the player above in the meantime.