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The Express, a movie written about the late Ernie Davis, is currently in its last weeks of filming. With the filming wrapping up, a theater release date of October 10, 2008 has finally been nailed down. It had been reported previously that the film would be released in 2009, but the studio denied such claims.

The movie tells the story of Ernie Davis and his years at Syracuse University, where he was a two-time All-American in football and the winner of the Heisman Trophy in 1961. Davis grew up in Elmira, NY where he was a high school All-American in both football and basketball at Elmira Free Academy. Ernie Davis was also the first black play to win the coveted Heisman Trophy. Davis was the top NFL draft pick out of college, but tragically died of leukemia in 1963 before he could realize his NFL dreams.

According Dave Fulton, a publicist for the production company, The Express focuses on Davis’ relationship with Syracuse coach Ben Schwartzwalder. Rob Brown plays the role of Ernie Davis, and Dennis Quaid stars as Coach Schwartzwalder.

Speaking of the movie, Fulton also said that it won’t be just another football movie or reincarnation of Brian’s Song. “That movie was about Brian Piccolo’s death. This movie is about Ernie Davis’ life,” said Fulton. “Also, it’s a movie about the times. It’s bigger than a football movie.”

We know that the film will be released on October 10, 2008, however, the location of the premiere has not been determined.  There is a good chance it could premiere in either Elmira or Syracuse as there are currently campaigns to bring The Express premiere those locations.