Dear Zachary: A Letter to a Son About His Father

Main Plot

"Dear Zachary: A Letter to a Son About His Father" is a deeply emotional documentary directed by Kurt Kuenne. The film begins as a tribute to Kuenne's close friend, Andrew Bagby, who was tragically murdered. As Kuenne gathers memories and stories from Andrew's friends and family, the narrative takes a heart-wrenching turn when Andrew's ex-girlfriend, who is the prime suspect in his murder, announces she is pregnant with Andrew's child. The documentary then shifts focus to the legal battles and emotional struggles faced by Andrew's parents as they fight for custody of their grandson, Zachary. Through a mix of home videos, interviews, and personal reflections, the film paints a poignant picture of loss, love, and the enduring impact of Andrew's life on those who knew him.

Characters

• Kurt Kuenne is the filmmaker and close friend of Andrew Bagby, documenting Andrew's life and tragic death to create a heartfelt tribute for Andrew's son, Zachary.
• Andrew Bagby is the murdered father whose life and tragic death are central to the documentary, prompting a heartfelt tribute and a quest for justice by his friends and family.
• David Bagby is the father of Andrew Bagby. He seeks justice for his son's murder and fights for the custody of his grandson, Zachary.

Ending Explained

"Dear Zachary: A Letter to a Son About His Father," directed by Kurt Kuenne, concludes with a heart-wrenching and tragic turn of events. The documentary, initially intended as a tribute to Andrew Bagby, who was murdered by his ex-girlfriend Shirley Turner, shifts focus to their son, Zachary. Throughout the film, Kuenne documents the efforts of Andrew's parents, David and Kathleen Bagby, to gain custody of Zachary and ensure his safety. The climax reveals that despite their relentless legal battles and the overwhelming evidence against her, Shirley Turner was granted bail and retained custody of Zachary. In a devastating twist, Turner ultimately takes her own life and that of her son by jumping into the Atlantic Ocean, drowning them both. This tragic conclusion underscores the systemic failures of the legal and judicial systems in protecting the innocent and preventing further loss. The film ends with a call to action, urging reforms to prevent similar tragedies, and serves as a poignant memorial to both Andrew and Zachary.