‘for KING + COUNTRY: NO TURNING BACK’ Now Streaming in Australia
By: Steff Willis
This documentary reveals the struggles behind the success
The documentary offers an intimate look at Australian brothers Joel and Luke Smallbone, charting their journey from early struggles to global success. While many fans were introduced to their story through the 2024 biopic Unsung Hero, this latest project goes further, revealing the challenges and defining moments that shaped their careers and faith.
Originally announced in October 2025, the film was billed as an “intimate” portrait that would give fans an inside look at the band’s journey, including years of failed starts, industry rejection and health battles.
Speaking about the documentary, Joel highlighted just how personal the project became.
“[The documentary] was kind of an opportunity to peek behind the curtain at the struggle and the visceral bits, the illness and the ego and the issues we faced as a family and then the grace of God literally weaving the narrative together,” Joel shared.
The film has been described by the brothers as a companion piece to Unsung Hero, but with a grittier and more reflective tone. It dives into pivotal moments in their lives — including career setbacks, family challenges and health struggles — and how those experiences ultimately shaped their music and message.
Luke also reflected on how those lived experiences have influenced their songwriting. “I’m not a good enough songwriter to write songs about things I don’t care about… I need the songs to feel like we’ve lived them,” Luke said.
For Australian audiences, the arrival of for KING + COUNTRY: NO TURNING BACK marks the first opportunity to see this chapter of the Smallbones’ story unfold on screen. The documentary combines archival footage, behind-the-scenes moments and personal reflections to paint a full picture of the duo’s journey from Australia to international success.
for KING + COUNTRY: NO TURNING BACK is rated PG.
This article was researched and prepared by Rise 96.5 staff writers, with assistance from AI in its presentation. Final review and fact-checking was undertaken by our Digital Team prior to publication.
Article supplied with thanks to 96five.
Feature image: Supplied
