Canadian country music star Dallas Smith is heading to the big screen this winter, with SOUL’S ROAD slated to open in theatres across Canada on Feb. 6, 2026, following an extensive national tour designed to build momentum for the release.
The film, shot in Edmonton, is positioned as a large-scale, emotionally driven drama centred on connection, personal accountability and second chances. It also marks a milestone for Smith, who takes on his first leading role in a feature film after establishing himself as one of Canada’s best-known country artists.
“Following an extensive cross-country film tour, Soul’s Road, starring Dallas Smith, is set to open in movie theatres nationwide on February 6,” the production said in a release.
The rollout follows a cross-country film tour that ran alongside Smith’s 51-stop Canadian music tour, bringing the project directly to audiences in multiple markets before its national theatrical opening. The combined tour strategy aimed to tap into Smith’s existing fan base while introducing the film to moviegoers, with the production emphasizing the film’s Canadian roots and broader themes.
“The national film tour alongside Smith’s 51 stop Canadian music tour engaged audiences coast to coast, building anticipation for the theatrical release and underscoring the film’s deep Canadian roots and universal themes,” the release said.
With the wide release, the producers say the film is intended to be experienced on the big screen, emphasizing its visual scope and cinematic presentation.
“An epic, emotionally driven cinematic journey, Souls Road brings audiences a powerful story of connection, reckoning, and the paths that define us,” the release said. “Shot on a sweeping scale and designed for the big screen, the film marks a major moment in Smith’s career as he takes on his debut leading role on the big screen.”
The story follows Ronan Garrett, a musician attempting to rebuild his life after his career collapses and he steps away from the spotlight. Returning to his hometown after nearly a decade away, Ronan arrives with little direction beyond repairing relationships and confronting the damage left behind.
“After ruining his solo career and taking an extended break from music, the infamous Ronan Garrett returns to his hometown without much of a plan besides making amends with the people he abandoned almost a decade ago,” the release said.
The narrative leans into themes of reinvention and reconciliation, with Ronan facing a community that has not forgotten him — whether in admiration or resentment.
“Forgotten by some, but still regarded as a rockstar by others, Ronan takes a humble job from a friend at the local music shop and sets about fixing his past mistakes, determined to prove himself a changed man,” the release said.
As he works to rebuild trust and establish a more grounded life, the film suggests music remains a central force pulling him forward.
“As the healing process begins, Ronan feels the call to play again – with a new approach,” the release said.
SOUL’S ROAD is directed by Joel Stewart and produced by John K. MacDonald, Don Depoe and Michael Feehan, with Eleanor Wiebe listed as executive producer. The cast includes Smith alongside Camille Stopps, Josh Collins, Charlie Gillespie and Allan Hawco.
The film is being released by Edmonton-based Dept.9 Studios, a boutique production company that focuses on original film and television projects while highlighting Canadian creative talent. The company describes itself as a home base for filmmakers and musicians, supported by in-house post-production and recording facilities.
“Dept.9 Studios is a boutique film and television production company based in Edmonton, Alberta, dedicated to creating and producing original and compelling content while championing Canadian talent,” the company said.
Its recent slate includes feature work such as Dark Match starring wrestler and entertainer Chris Jericho, as well as SOUL’S ROAD featuring Smith.
“Their projects range from feature films like Dark Match starring WWE and AEW legend Chris Jericho to Soul’s Road featuring Canadian country star Dallas Smith, each one rooted in meaningful storytelling and high production values,” the release said.
Dept.9 also noted that, beyond its own productions, it provides space and services to other creators, supported by a full production infrastructure in Edmonton.
“In addition to developing their own projects, they welcome other creators into their space,” the release said. “Dept.9 Studios is fully equipped with post-production facilities and a professional recording studio, making it a versatile hub for filmmakers, editors, and musicians.”
The film’s Feb. 6 release date positions it for a winter theatrical window, with the company encouraging audiences to experience it in cinemas following the tour-led build-up.
“With its wide release, Souls Road invites audiences everywhere to experience the story as intended – in theatres.”
