Austin LeRette is a special little boy.

Because of his conditions, Austin is not simply a one-in-a-million child, but rather, a young man who was born with a combination of problems that occur only once in four billion births. Those are the odds of being born with both a rare brittle bone disease (osteogenesis imperfecta) and autism. Beginning with his birth, when the doctor’s forceps broke the tiny baby’s ribs, Austin has suffered countless broken bones — and his parents have struggled to keep safe their growing, inquisitive, active and very vulnerable son. 

But what makes Austin truly unique is his joy-filled, life-affirming worldview, which transforms and unites everyone around him — especially his father, Scott, whose life is changed as he comes to see his son not as a symbol of something broken, but as the triumph of an indestructible spirit.

Kingdom Story Co. and Lionsgate bring this sweet, faith-based true story to the big screen in The Unbreakable Boy, opening in theaters on Feb. 21. The audience will break into smiles at the charming and exuberant Austin (played by Kellen Martelli as a 4-year-old and by Jacob Laval as a young teen). 

But amid the joy, his parents Scott (played by Zachary Levi) and Teresa (Meghann Fahy) know only too well the 24-hour-a-day challenge of caring for their “AuzMan.” 

The movie highlights the flaws that plague Austin’s parents and the serious challenges they face in raising their special son. Scott is broken in his own way, relying on alcohol to the point that his family cannot depend on him, as Teresa seeks escape through video games. 

In one scene, the exhausted couple find relief from their son’s nonstop chatter by sitting on a closet floor and pulling the door shut. As much as they love their son, they need a little time away. Both need to find ways to deal with all of the stress in a healthy way, as Grandma Marcia (Patricia Heaton) offers support.

Amid the stress is “Joe,” Scott’s imaginary friend from childhood. Talking with Joe was how Scott could work through complex issues and situations in life. Joe was always there, ready to listen; and at one point, Scott “asked” him, “Are you God?” Of course, Joe was not God; but God was always there, guiding Scott, as he comes to see. 

Austin also teaches Scott about how to view life. 

Scott says, “I wish that I could enjoy anything as much as my son enjoys everything.” 

Actor Levi has been inspired by the young man with the sparkling outlook, reflecting, “I hope that my faith is strong enough that I can finish the race. I hope that I am the ‘unbreakable boy.’” 

For her part, Heaton, a Catholic, says faith informs her daily life and her acting work. “My faith has always played a prominent role in my life. It’s the center of who I am, my relationship with God,” she told MovieWeb.com. 

The actress, who will play a mother superior alongside Al Pacino in the upcoming exorcism film The Ritual, said Austin’s story is timely: “I think we’re at a time right now in the country where a lot of people are searching for something that they know they can depend on no matter what, and the only answer to that is God. … You know, community, family, all those things are important, and those are all gifts from God."

Austin’s journey in The Unbreakable Boy is a powerful testimony of faith, resilience and finding joy in every moment. 

What most people will walk away from the theater with is the conviction that every child can bring true joy to a family.

Viewer caveat: Rated PG for strong thematic material, alcohol abuse, language and some violence.