Dear Zachary: A Letter to a Son About His Father

The documentary film "Dear Zachary: A Letter to a Son About His Father" commences with the introduction of Andrew Bagby, a bright and promising young medical resident who had recently ended his eight-year relationship with Elizabeth Gruber. This seemingly ordinary breakup takes a devastating turn when, in 2001, Andrew is found brutally murdered, his body discovered on a mountainous road in Newfoundland, Canada. As the news of Andrew's death spreads, his friends and family are devastated by the loss. Among them is Kurt Kuenne, a close friend of Andrew's who had been present during the final days of his life. Kurt, a filmmaker by passion, begins this documentary film as a way to connect with Andrew's unborn child, Zachary, and to share his friend's story with him one day. Kurt delves deep into Andrew's life, showcasing his warm and endearing personality through home movies, interviews, and photographs. We see Andrew as a happy-go-lucky teenager who loved music, traveling, and, most of all, his family. His parents, Gerald and Gaylen Bagby, are introduced as loving and supportive parents who always encouraged Andrew's pursuits. One of the most striking aspects of the film is the way it weaves in and out of reality and documentary-style narrative, creating a poignant and introspective account of Andrew's life. Through Kurt's lens, we witness Andrew's romance with Elizabeth Gruber, his struggles with his parents' divorce, and his eventual decision to pursue a career in medicine. As the investigation into Andrew's murder unfolds, the film takes a darker turn, revealing the shocking truth behind his death. The killer, Brad Roberts, is shown to be a charismatic and cunning individual who had been involved with Elizabeth at the time of Andrew's murder. What's more, the film reveals that Elizabeth had been aware of Brad's true intentions and had, in fact, been in contact with him on the night of the murder. The subsequent trial of Brad Roberts is a central aspect of the film, with Kurt documenting the proceedings in a candid and often disturbing manner. The documentary also delves into the complex and disturbing world of the Bagby family, revealing deep-seated emotional issues and family dynamics that contribute to the tragedy of Andrew's death. Throughout the film, Kurt's personal grief and sorrow are palpable, as he grapples with the loss of his dear friend and the weight of responsibility in sharing this story with Andrew's child, Zachary. The documentary becomes an intimate and deeply personal exploration of grief, loss, and the human condition. The film also raises important questions about the justice system and the treatment of victims' families in cases of brutal murder. The Bagby family's struggles to come to terms with Andrew's death and the subsequent court proceedings are nothing short of heart-wrenching. Ultimately, "Dear Zachary" is a poignant and deeply moving tribute to Andrew Bagby, a young man who had so much life and promise ahead of him. Through Kurt's remarkable documentary, we are given a glimpse into Andrew's life, and the heartbreaking impact of his death on those around him.