Utah man with rare facial condition sees his life story told on the big screen

SALT LAKE CITY (KSL.com) — A Utah man who overcame the incredible odds of a rare facial deformity is now watching his life story unfold in theaters across the country.

The new documentary, “STANDOUT: The Ben Kjar Story,” opened nationwide this weekend. Ben Kjar says he hopes the film inspires others to push through challenges and accomplish great things.

Growing up in Centerville, Kjar endured harsh bullying and hurtful messages. He was born with Crouzon Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that affects the middle of the face and causes head and facial deformities.

As a child, he often heard words like “freak,” “monster,” and “mutant.”

Instead of letting the cruelty define him, Kjar turned his adversity into motivation. He became a champion—both on the wrestling mat and in life.

He eventually became the first All-American wrestler at Utah Valley University and later a world champion.

Now, his story is reaching audiences on the big screen, with the film opening in more than 100 theaters nationwide.

Tanner Christensen, the film’s director, said Kjar’s journey is one he’s wanted to share for years.

“He’s the most inspiring individual I’ve ever met,” Christensen said. “I think everybody that meets him wants to be a better person.”

Christensen hopes viewers leave the theater both entertained and uplifted. He said in a world filled with division and cruelty, Kjar’s life serves as a reminder of what brings people together.

One of the pivotal moments in Kjar’s life came as a young boy when a father in a grocery store told his children to stay away from him because he was “contagious.”

Devastated, Kjar said he went home wondering how he could remove his face. His mother then delivered the words that would shape his future.

“She stood me in front of the mirror and said, ‘Ben, you’re born different to make a difference,’” he recalled. “‘You’re going to get attention in life whether you like it or not. When that attention comes, don’t fit in. Don’t shy away. You’re born to stand out.’”

Kjar says he hopes the film encourages others to feel confident in who they are, embrace what makes them unique, and stand out in the world.