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The Reckoning

Set in the aftermath of a catastrophic bioweapon release, The Reckoning unfolds in a world where society has collapsed under the weight of its own desperation. A government experiment, intended to quell dissent in the outer sectors, spiraled out of control when the bioweapon mutated, poisoning the atmosphere and leaving much of the population dead. The survivors are left to navigate a harsh and desolate landscape where resources are scarce, lawlessness reigns, and the air itself is a constant threat.

Amid this chaos, two brothers, Samuel and Jude, struggle to survive in their decimated rural hometown of Pine Hollow. Samuel, the younger of the two, clings to his faith and the hope that humanity’s better nature can prevail, even in the face of destruction. Jude, hardened by the brutal realities of survival and scarred by personal loss, believes the world demands ruthless pragmatism. Their opposing worldviews create a growing rift between them, straining the bond they once shared.

As food and supplies dwindle, the brothers must venture into the remnants of Pine Hollow, where every step is fraught with danger. Scavengers—ruthless survivors who will kill for scraps—roam the land, making trust a dangerous luxury. The brothers’ tenuous survival is further challenged when an uninvited stranger arrives at their home, seeking refuge. Desperate and wounded, the stranger brings both a potential lifeline and a grave risk.

The brothers are forced to confront their deepest fears and values. Samuel sees the stranger as an opportunity to preserve their humanity through compassion, while Jude views him as a threat that could unravel their fragile survival. As tension mounts and difficult choices arise, the brothers must wrestle with the cost of their actions, the weight of their guilt, and the meaning of mercy in a merciless world.

When a final, devastating confrontation forces them to act, Samuel and Jude face their ultimate reckoning. Their decision will determine not only their fate but the enduring question of what it means to be human in a world where humanity has faltered.

The Reckoning is a gripping tale of survival, faith, and the thin line between right and wrong. It explores themes of sacrifice, brotherhood, and moral resilience in the face of unimaginable loss. As the brothers’ journey unfolds, the film asks: When survival demands everything, will faith be enough to endure?

  • Chris Robinson
    Producer
    Jackson's Run
  • Daniel J Lennox
    Director
    Jackson's Run, Dino & Ruby, The Silent Warriors, The Lottery, The Seventh Mile, When I'm Afraid, Coming Home
  • Daniel J Lennox
    Writer
    Jackson's Run, The Seventh Mile, The Lottery
  • Chris Robinson
    Writer
    Jackson's Run
  • Kyle Bates
    First AD
  • Daniel J Lennnox
    Key Cast
    "Mac"
    Jackson's Run
  • Deacon Grasty
    Key Cast
    "Samuel"
  • Zach Hurley
    Key Cast
    "Jude"
  • Aidan Brooks
    Key Cast
    "Elijah"
  • Nate Savidge
    Director of Photography
  • Thomas Johnson
    Production Sound
  • Micah Gerber
    Key Grip
  • Raegan Jones
    Key Makeup
  • Mike Constable
    Wardrobe
  • Kimberly J Richardson
    Casting Director
  • Project Type:
    Short
  • Genres:
    Thriller, horror, dystopian
  • Runtime:
    29 minutes 35 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    January 5, 2024
  • Country of Origin:
    United States
  • Country of Filming:
    United States
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Aspect Ratio:
    2.39:1
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    No
  • Christian Online Film Festival
    United States
    Award Winner
Director Biography - Daniel J Lennox

Daniel J. Lennox is an accomplished filmmaker known for his emotionally driven and thought-provoking storytelling. With a passion for exploring deep themes of faith, hope, and resilience, Daniel has garnered recognition for his work in both short and feature-length films. His faith-based film Jackson's Run earned critical acclaim and multiple awards, solidifying his reputation as a powerful voice in inspirational cinema. In addition to Jackson’s Run, Daniel has directed an extensive list of award-winning short films, showcasing his versatility and skill as a filmmaker.

With The Reckoning, he continues to push the boundaries of storytelling, blending raw human emotion with powerful narratives.

Add Director Biography
Director Statement

As a filmmaker, I am deeply committed to telling stories that explore the complexities of faith, morality, and human endurance in the face of adversity. For me, filmmaking is not just about crafting visual experiences but about digging into the deeper questions of life—how we survive, what we hold onto when the world around us crumbles, and where we find hope in the darkest moments.

I believe that the best stories challenge us to confront difficult choices and examine our own humanity. Whether it’s a tale of personal struggle or a story set against the backdrop of societal collapse, my goal is to spark reflection and conversation. My work consistently aims to explore the strength of the human spirit and the fine line between survival and sacrifice.

I hope this film invites viewers to engage with these themes and reflect on the ways in which faith and resilience can shape our lives, even in the most trying times.

Thank you for joining me on this journey.

— Daniel J. Lennox