The Cast of Disney's "Safety" Interview: This Movie Has Something For Everyone

Disney's new film "Safety" is a must-see for families everywhere! Based on the true and inspiring story of Ray McElrathbey, "Safety" tells the story of a college athlete suddenly faced with the difficult task of raising his little brother. It is a heartwarming story about overcoming adversity and what it means to be a family.

Here is an interview with the cast and crew to get you excited! Be sure to watch "Safety" on Friday, December 11th on Disney+.

Clemson Tigers play-by-play announcer Don Munson, moderates the interview and introduces the cast and crew of the film.

The Cast and Crew

Jay Reeves plays Ray McElrathbey, a freshman football player at Clemson University. Ray is a dedicated athlete and student, but when he faces family troubles, he struggles to balance all of his responsibilities. He has a kind heart and he is resilient in the face of adversity.

Thaddeus J. Mixson plays Fahmarr McElrathbey, Ray's younger brother. He is a fun-loving young boy who loves his family. When his mother can no longer care for him, Fahmarr becomes the responsibility of his older brother Ray.

Hunter Sansone plays Daniel, Ray's college roommate. Daniel is a true friend and is always willing to help out Ray and Fahmarr.

Corinne Foxx plays Kaycee, a student at Clemson and Ray's love interest. She really cares for Ray and wants to help him and Fahmarr as much as she can.

Reginald Hudlin is the director of "Safety."

Mark Ciardi is the producer of the movie.

Ray McElrathbey is the real person that the story of "Safety" is based on. He assumed the responsibility of raising his younger brother Fahmarr when their mother could not.

"Safety" Premise

Ray McElrathbey is a freshman attending Clemson University in South Carolina. He is very busy with school and football, but when his mother enters a rehabilitation treatment center, he does not hesitate to raise his younger brother Fahmarr. When his scholarships and place on the football team are threatened, it is up to Ray and the Clemson community to come together and help out.

"Safety" Has Something For Everyone

Whether you are a fan of football or not, "Safety" has a great balance of sports and heart. Also, while Ray's family situation is unique, his story is one that everyone can appreciate. While speaking about Ray's story, the director of "Safety", Reginald Hadlin says,

"I think Ray’s story is unique and has something, uh, special to say and that resonates with everyone who sees it, no matter who they are, no matter where they're from."

Getting Into Character

Because most of the characters in "Safety" are based on real people, the actors wanted to really do their parts justice. When commenting on the preparation done to properly portray his character Fahmarr, Thaddeus J. Mixson had this to say,

"I started searching and looked at, an Oprah Winfrey interview that they had did. I just wanted to try to embody that as much as I could. And I actually almost cried from just watching it. 'Cause, you could just see the pain. And I know he went through a lot. So yeah, I just wanted to show that on screen."

Moderator Don Munson who knew Fahmarr, speaks very highly of Mixon's performance as well. Munson says that Mixon, "does a wonderful job of playing Fahmarr."

Also Jay Reeves, who plays Ray McElrathbey says that while studying his character he, "followed him on Instagram just to, uh, you know, get a little bit ahead."

A Well-Balanced Story

Thaddeus J. Mixson as Fahmarr and Jay Reeves as Ray

While the story of Ray McElrathbey is very emotional, this movie still includes many funny moments. Ray has fun hanging out with his friends, and his relationship with Fahmarr is very lighthearted at times.

The presence of comedy serves as a great balance compared to the more serious moments. Hadlin says that the film has, "a little bit of everything."

"Safety" Praise From Clemson

There are many sports-themed movies in the world, but "Safety" is not your average football film. While there are football elements in the movie, it is so much more than that.

Munson explains that, "There are other stories, believe me that are-that can be told from this community, but I don't know that you'll find more poignant than Ray’s story."

Ray McElrathbey's Thoughts

Jay Reeves as Ray and Thaddeus J. Mixson II as Fahmarr

Ray McElrathbey shows glowing praise of the movie and everyone in it. As a person who has a Disney movie based on their life, Ray calls the experience "a surreal experience. It's a wonderful experience more so than anything."

In response to a question about who is the hero in the film, he says, " it’d probably be Fahmarr as well. Um, because even in real life, Fahmarr was the catalyst that made me step up."

What Audiences Should Know

While there are elements of comedy, football, and even sadness, "Safety" at its heart is a wonderful film about family and relationships. Viewers of all ages will be cheering for Ray and Fahmarr as they face difficult circumstances.

"Safety" is a heartfelt movie that is perfect to watch with your family during the holiday season!