Kurt Kuenne's film of a legacy to his friend is beautifully and powerfully done. Andrew Bagby appeared to have it all: a large group of friends, two devoted parents, a promising medical career. With a great spirit and sense of humor, Andrew threw himself into life fully and seemed to trust that things would work out. When he began dating an older woman who appeared unstable, his friends grew concerned. Realizing that the relationship was problematic, David tried to break it off. Later, he was found dead on the side of the road, with suspicion falling on his former girlfriend. To complicate the story, this woman said she was pregnant and Andrew was the father of her baby. Kurt Kuenne decided to help Andrew's son, Zachary, know as much of his father as he could by filming his memories of his friend. But the documentary of Andrew's life that Mr. Kuenne undertook was not the film he had planned to make at all.
Filmmaker Kurt Kuenne Reveals a Family's Nightmare
From the very beginning of this film, it is spellbinding. The sincerity of Mr. Kuenne's artistry is apparent; the film allows the viewer to feel a part of Dr. Bagby, his family, and his circle of friends. Witnessing the warmth, the sense of humor, the close family relationships and the longtime friendship between Mr. Kuenne and Andrew Bagby increases the tension of watching elements of all of their lives suffer destruction. The contrast between this guileless, promising young man and the dark forces that enter his life story is revealed one agonizing detail at a time. The viewer is catapulted into each new bit of information with an emotional force that hits home. Mr. Kuenne spares no one is this gripping drama.
Dear Zachary: Social Injustice and Personal Strength
The sharp twists hit the viewer like a knife in the soul, pulling an array of emotions from within: anger, shock, frustration, grief, respect and awe. And while the film unravels a mystery, the revelation of the strength and tenacity of Andrew's parents is an inspiring one. Kurt Kuenne has captured an essence of Andrew Bagby that is appealing and memorable. Like a punch in the gut, this portrait of Andrew's parents leaves an impact that takes your breath away. This is a film that will not be easy to forget. Do not miss this one!
Dear Zachary has won several awards, including:
- Best Documentary of 2008, Society of Professional Journalists
- Best Documentary, Orlando Film Festival
- Audience Award, St Louis International Film Festival
- Audience Award, Sidewalk Movie Pictures Festival
- Cinequest 18 Special Jury Award for Documentaries
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Barbara DeGrande - Barbara DeGrande is a writer, film critic, and blogger, with years of experience as a program developer. She has a Bachelor of Arts in ...
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