'Patriots Day' Premiere Honors Boston's Bravest

BOSTON (CBSNewYork) -- The stars were out in Boston Wednesday evening for the world premiere of the highly anticipated film 'Patriots Day.'

As CBS2's Jessica Moore reported, the movie shows the untold story behind the hunt and eventual capture of the Boston Marathon bombers before they could carry out a second attack in New York City.

The mood was surreal on Wednesday's red carpet, as the real life heroes of the 2013 bombing embraced the actors and producers who ensured their stories will never be forgotten.

Boston native Mark Wahlberg is both producing and starring in the film. He plays Boston Police Officer Tommy Saunders.

"We wanted to tell their story and to share it with the world," said Wahlberg. "It's so special. It's going to be a very emotional night but I know people are going to feel an enormous sense of pride."

Many first responders, investigators, and civilians involved in those fateful days joined the cast on the red carpet Wednesday.

Also in attendance were Patrick and Jessica Downes -- survivors of the attack who both lost limbs and are still very much in recovery.

It's easy to see that their compassion overwhelms their pain.

"So many people's emotions are tied up in this," said Patrick. "Not just ours, there are four families whose loved ones were killed."

It's an important story, and one that Leslie Moonves, Chairman of the Board, President, and Chief Executive Officer of CBS Corporation, says had to be told.

"There are so many stories that the American people don't know about," Moonves said. "So many heroes in this movie, that it's really heartwarming. It represents this city, it represents this country."

Never forgetting the people who suffered so greatly, director Peter Berg took all that into account.

"The last thing we wanted to do was re-traumatize anyone or interrupt anyone's process of getting better," he said.

"It still manages to be really beautiful and respectful and reach me in a really special place," said Jessica.

That's the hope for everyone who sees 'Patriots Day' -- a message of hope in the face of darkness.

Leslie Moonves credits the journalistic integrity of "60 Minutes" producers for keeping the story line on track.

'Patriots Day' premieres in New York City Dec. 21 and nationwide Jan. 13.