WATCH THE TRAILER HERE
First, the Recap:
Death. Whether or not we wish to accept, acknowledge, think about, much less face the end–the inevitability of it remains a core essence of who we are as people. Given the finite time presented to us, it becomes that much more difficult to face the spectre of passing on, however, if it has chosen to come for us sooner than expected. Danny Stafen (Evan Elias), lying prone in a hospital bed while dealing with the uncomfortable reality of terminal cancer, knows what’s soon to come. Even in his acceptance of it, the choice to try and be alone, isolated from all friends and family, fading into shadow, was a choice made and enacted.
However, everyone else won’t stand for that. During a visit by his three friends–Tanner (Todd Sapio), Sean (Cody Lynch), and Miles(Chris Ullsmith)–they surprise Danny by announcing they are taking him home, to be surrounded by the exact friends and family he pushed away for so long. Drinking in a newfound depth of appreciation and love from his pals, the journey becomes even more amazing and emotionally powerful as they introduce Danny to yet another unanticipated event–an outdoor party/gathering of family and other friends to celebrate his life. From his parents (Bill Wise & Cynthia Fray) to girlfriend Katie (Elle Lamont), Danny’s efforts to totally voice how he feels eludes him, despite best efforts.
Stealing individual moments with everyone specifically he can, a final request to go home is honored, even as others stay to continue reflecting on the value of Danny’s friendship, life, and achievements.
Next, my Mind:
In twelve short minutes, writer/director/producer Derek Franzese had this reviewer in tears thanks to taking the theme of cancer, usually a much more somber subject, and turning it into an absolutely affecting, poignant, soul-stirring, heartwarming testimony to the power of friendship, bonds of family, and the necessity of dealing with pending death in a more dignified, touching, and life-affirming way. It needs to be understood this by no means lessens the harshness of or treats lightly the illness itself, nor the reality of suffering those afflicted with it face. Rather, it illustrates the prospect of having what amounts to a living wake, providing a last, treasured memory, and for that person to actually BE present, taking in how everyone close reflects upon their lives, which usually is not the case. Uniquely designed story to superb effect.
Elias is undeniably excellent in his role as the terminally ill Danny, realistically and convincingly portraying a man on the edge of what could have been total, utter despair and loneliness for his final days, but instead being transformed by the unfeigned, unwavering devotion of friendship and brotherhood his friends demonstrate. What adds to Elias’ performance is that with all the powerful resonance being exuded, the character is played very understated, and therefore brings an even better sense of genuine believability in how he reacts to each unfolding moment being experienced. Solid supporting turns are had by all, especially the key individuals mentioned above, played by Sapio, Lynch, Ullsmith, Lamont, Wise, and Fray. Being a character-centric drama, everyone involved ultimately factors into the story’s overall success.
With a finale to unequivocally move you and themes explored that more than deserve notice for being such needed and sadly lacking sentiments in much of today’s culture, “Into Memory” stands firm on its humanity and positive vibes, which ideally should bring it additionally deserved recognition and applause from all who have opportunity to view it.
As always, this is all for your consideration and comment. Until next time, thank you for reading!
