Inside Not Without Hope: Cast Confronts Real-Life Tragedy and Survival

The survival drama Not Without Hope brings to the screen the heartbreaking true events of a 2009 boating disaster that claimed the lives of NFL players Marquis Cooper and Corey Smith, leaving Nick Schuyler as the only survivor. Under the direction of Joe Carnahan, the film was shot entirely in Malta’s challenging water tanks, pushing the cast to their physical and emotional limits.

Portraying Real Lives and Bearing Emotional Weight

Zachary Levi, who steps into the role of Nick Schuyler, joined Quentin Plair (Marquis Cooper), Terrence Terrell (Corey Smith), and Marshall Cook (Will Bleakley) to discuss the unique challenges of embodying real people whose lives were forever changed—or lost—by the tragedy. The actors reflected on the responsibility they felt to honor the memories of those involved, while also navigating the intense demands of filming in water for extended periods.

It ’s incredibly important. I’m not sure I do it that well all the time, depending on the story. This is the most intense film I’ve been a part of, particularly in terms of the subject matter. When you’re an actor, you are tasting and experiencing a fraction of what actually went down in the real moments that Nick and Marquis and Corey and Will were experiencing.

Levi described the process as "mildly traumatic," explaining that the shared experience of filming in such extreme conditions created a powerful bond among the cast. He admitted that, despite his best efforts, protecting his own mental health during the shoot was far from easy.

Balancing Authenticity and Personal Interpretation

For Terrell, Cook, and Plair, portraying men who lost their lives came with its own set of challenges. Terrell noted that, because Corey Smith wasn’t as widely recognized, he felt a bit more freedom in his performance. Cook, who played Will Bleakley, relied on online research, conversations with Nick Schuyler, and his own experiences to shape his portrayal. He shared a moment of validation when someone who knew Will reached out to say he had truly captured his spirit.

I think the most important goal for me was to not make things any worse for the family members and friends of Marquis who are still here. I took that very, very seriously. Anytime you’re dealing with a true story that is as traumatic as this one, you just take it with the most sensitive gloves that you can. I personally wanted to open myself up to tell Marquise’s story and honor him as much as possible in his plight.

Plair emphasized the importance of sensitivity, striving to honor Marquis Cooper’s memory without adding to the pain of those left behind. Each actor approached their role with a deep sense of respect and care, aiming to do justice to the real people at the heart of the story.

Shifting Toward Stories of Perseverance

Levi’s recent career choices reflect a move away from blockbuster franchises toward more intimate, character-driven films that explore resilience and faith. He spoke candidly about his desire to tell stories that inspire audiences and remind them of the strength within themselves.

I think that when given the opportunity to tell a story that inspires, if you can make people laugh or cry or jump, but also inspire them in some way to remind them of the strength of the human spirit that we all have within us, the ability to overcome any number of obstacles, it’s something I need to remind myself of constantly.

Levi admitted that he still struggles with self-doubt and gratitude, but finds meaning in projects that resonate on a personal level. He’s drawn to scripts that celebrate the power of the human spirit, and feels a responsibility to share those stories with the world.

Not Without Hope Hits Theaters

Not Without Hope arrives in theaters on December 12, offering audiences a gripping look at survival, loss, and the enduring will to live. The film stands as a testament to the resilience of those who lived through the ordeal—and to the actors who brought their stories to life.