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While I can understand why some might have a real connection to this movie and rate it a 10 for that reason (ie you served in the military (thank you for your service), lost someone close to you, or had to deal with putting an elderly family member in an assisted living home against their will), this movie isn't an Oscar worthy film. At the same time it isn't a "1" , worth walking out on, not by a long shot.

Like many I saw this movie as it was playing as the Screen Unseen, Monday movie of the week (love this idea by the way). The script is ok, not terribly deep or thought provoking. There are some cute, funny moments scattered about, but not sure I'd put this in the dark comedy category.

Morgan Freeman isn't used very effectively as some scenes cried out for more interaction between him and the lead character. Without that character depth, anyone could have played that role as meaningfully as he did, which wasn't very.

The ending could have used a little more fleshing out of some details to really deliver. It wasn't bad, and it gets its point across just fine. But overall that's what this movie is, it's just there and it's just fine. That's not a terrible thing, but it's not an amazing thing either.

That said, I am glad I saw it and I enjoyed it.

This movie is absolutely positively not even in the slightest bit a comedy or a dark comedy. It is incredibly sad. And very boring for the first 55 minutes (i fell asleep multiple times, i never do that). That being said, the movie recruits real veterans to play the roles of the veterans in the support group. The movie as a whole shines a light on some incredibly important (and often forgotten/overlooked) topics. I cried for the last 1/3 of the movie. Veteran or not, anyone who suffers from PTSD/SI, or even knows someone who does, will relate to this movie. And if that's not you, you'll still most likely appreciate the significance of the themes in this film. I'd categorize this movie as (in this order): drama, tragedy, war.

Soooo...I went to see this film at AMC's Scream Unseen, which is exclusively for horror flicks. So that was upsetting, this home is absolutely not horror in any way shape or form. Secondly, since it was an early release the director begins the film with telling you about his newest dark comedy. This is assuredly not a dark comedy or even funny at any point. With that out of the way, this is a film about and for veterans and addressing the higher suicide rate of those who have served our country. Of course this is an important topic and I appreciate the directors and writers who made the film. Unfortunately there isn't much here till about 70 minutes into the film. More of a slice of life that happens to have veterans in the film. I would wait to stream this film. Not really worth a romp to the theatre.

Throughout this movie I felt there was something missing or wrong with the entire premise or story line.

After some time thinking things over and re-watching the movie, I think I know what it is: It really shouldn't be a comedy.

The subject matter is important and I think it would have been much more effective had the movie been entirely dramatic.

The story of a multi-generational military family - having made sacrifices for the country at great personal cost - should be told with more seriousness.

I do understand the artistic choice to use an imaginary dead friend as a story device. But I think it could have been done well even without the comedy.

Still, the acting was very good. And I'm glad Sonequa Martin-Green got to be lead in a movie that has nothing to do with Star Trek.

Merit is a female Afghanistan veteran, back home in Oregon. As the movie begins we see flashback scenes which included her and her close friend Zoe deployed. But we soon realize that Zoe is dead yet in many scenes we see her, representing Merit's inability to get past all that.

Ed Harris does a good turn as Merit's elderly granddad, living in his long-time home on a small lake. Merit's mom, the man's daughter, is thinking that he might be developing dementia and she is actively trying to get him into an assisted living facility. Merit will play a pivotal role in resolving the issue.

Morgan Freeman also has a key role, he facilitates a group meeting and Merit is one of the participants. She has to complete the sessions and get his signature to keep her out of legal trouble but she is reluctant to share what is really going on. So he plays a pivotal role in helping her get past her own PTSD.

Good character study, my wife and I watched it at home, on DVD from our public library.

I had an idea on what the story was about, but it threw a couple curve balls at me. The fight at home is sometimes worse than the fight in the war. We had an epidemic, and I'm happy to hear that it's been finally slowing down a bit since 2019. My heart goes to all those who are effected, no matter at what level. I hope better programs are put into place going forward. We shouldn't be sending them out, just to bring them back and let them suffer alone. We have a duty to them, as they served a duty to all of us. I think that's one thing a lot of us can unite on. Truly a great story with a powerful message. The movie can be a little slow at times, so that's where my 7 comes in, but its still one I'd tell the right people to go and see.

Saw at AMC on 3-5-2025 with Nicole.

With this kind of title and the mix of genres, I knew I would get something unusual. A comedy that is also a drama - not the best match for success. This time it works, even though both big names are on the background (and doing such great jobs to leave the stage for both actresses to shine).

It is a movie about grief, about trauma and about the way to handle both. We get several bites and tastes from the relationships of Merit and Zoe, but we won't know, until the end of the movie, what exactly went wrong and how Zoe ended her life. The reveal will be kind of a surprise and will change the way you think about the movie.

This twist doesn't matter as far as it goes for the core of the film. PTSD handling through several generations and the way people are handling their trauma and the way the state helps them to handle it. Its not an incident that Kyle Hausmann-Stokes chose a grandfather and his granddaughter, that are both military veterans, as the objects of the movie.

Each of them handles different types of trauma; both are repressing it in different ways and both and both have different sets of tools to deal with the reality that is forced from their military scars. Of course, the movie lightens the vibe a little bit by shoving inside a romantic story, but in the right amount to make it relevant and delicate to make it good comedy, well blended in with the serious and heavy drama.

The side story about Alzheimer is another reminder for us that there are also other issues that can take place in regular's people lives. And once again, though this movie feels like 16 tons of heavyweight drama, I got out with a smile and a tear, because it handled all subjects so well and with such gentle care, that it just couldn't go wrong in any way.

Sonequa Martin-Green is such a great surprise. Didn't know her and never heard about her. She does such a fantastic job in this film. Natalie Morales also makes good work, as her deputy, but doesn't get close to the drama peaks Martin-Green gets to. Morgan Freeman does what he always does - narrates the movie without actually narrating it and Ed Harris is superb as the grumpy grandad.

I had expected other things from this movie and got such a lovely film, that caught me by surprise. It wasn't long and was pretty accurate on so many levels. It speaks about such important subjects, and it is a must watch, not too heavy and almost a feel-good movie, that will melt several hearts through the process.

Yes it is a movie about veterans but it is not just about that, for me till the first half it was like omg not this same old story again specially I was watching the movie in a film festival but secondly half movie started to reveal more details and it was ooohhh thats different and nice, director made an amazing job you will feel his touches in a lot of things. Big shout out for Natalie Morales amazing acting, I loved every scene she was in. I would have loved if the movie main characters was males just because of the stereotype of men should be strong and control feelings bla bla bla which lead eventually men not revealing there emotions, but director had a fair point of why main characters were women.

This was by far the best premiere at SXSW Film Festival this year! Kyle Hausmann-Stokes (writer, director, producer) brings independent filmmaking with a heart and storytelling with a purpose to its best. My Dead Friend Zoe is so emotionally powerful that it is standing ovation material. The multigenerational elements and the multiple timelines add complexity without losing the audience. The film is tense and also sweet, with laugh out loud comedic moments-those moments we can all relate to. Morgan Freeman and Ed Harris as Viet Nam vets provide different perspectives, and so do Sonequa Martin-Green and Natalie Morales as Afghanistan vets. The story comes off as authentic because casting and acting are flawless. I'm not a vet, but I came away with a new understanding-not just of issues involved in military service but also of grief and reintegration after leaving the service. Ultimately, I see this film as a story about treating everyone, no matter their age, gender, or ethnicity, with dignity and compassion.

In "My Dead Friend Zoe," Kyle Hausmann-Stokes takes audiences on an unforgettable emotional journey, masterfully weaving together laughter and tears in a film that radiates warmth and sincerity from start to finish.

Kyle, who serves as the writer, director, and producer, demonstrates a keen understanding of the human experience, infusing every scene with genuine emotion and depth. The carefully timed laughs provide moments of levity amidst the weighty drama, creating a delicate balance that resonates long after the credits roll.

As a military veteran, I found a deeply personal connection to the story, particularly through Sonequa's character, who grapples with the profound challenges of grief and guilt in a world that often feels alienating. Her portrayal of Merit transcends the typical tropes of a military veteran depicted in film, offering a nuanced exploration of the universal themes of loss and redemption. The rest of the cast was nothing short of amazing. Zoe and Dale, played by Natalie Morales and Ed Harris, serve as the emotional anchors of the film, providing humor and heartache all played at just the right moments and done so masterfully. The character Alex, played by Utkarsh Ambudkar, provides an organically relateable living companion for our main protagonist as an outsider (civilian) looking in. Dr. Cole and Kris (Merit's mother) are breathed to life by Morgan Freeman and Gloria Reuben and help to provide that connective tissue between family, loss, and the process of moving on. It was a great feeling to see actual veterans in the supporting cast represented throughout the film. It is a testament to the spirit of the film and resonated with me as a viewer and as a service member.

One of the film's greatest strengths is its ability to highlight the inherent relatability of the human experience. Through authentic character development and heartfelt storytelling, MDFZ reminds us that, despite our differences, we are all bound by common emotions and struggles. This unique quality fosters a sense of compassion and understanding that reverberates throughout the film.

In a cinematic landscape often saturated with formulaic storytelling, MDFZ stands out as a breath of fresh air. Kyle Hausmann-Stokes's personal touch and unwavering commitment to authenticity create an immersive viewing experience that leaves a profound impact on the audience. His execution elevate the film beyond mere entertainment, offering a profound exploration of the human condition that is as inspiring as it is unforgettable. I salute you.

This movie has no redeeming qualities. It has a couple of comletely unbelievable female military persons who are shucking and jiving rather than being soldier-like. The movie establishes their disgusting behavior as their backstory to make the main character somehow a military expert. Their behavior and the storyline is an insult to all who served in the military as well as an insult to my brain with the ridiculous conversation. I was able to withstand this assault on my intelligence for about 15 minutes then left with almost a full tub of popcorn and most of a large drink. Sont water your time.

I saw this at SXSW 2024, and it was by far the best movie there (as also stated above). It is based on a true story. It made me laugh, it made me cry, and it also made me think more about veterans and the challenges that they face when they return from war.

I am trying not to reveal too much and spoil it for other folks but if you are going to watch this - please have a box of tissues around!

The acting is incredible - with people like Morgan Freeman and Ed Harris, you cannot go wrong. I am not as familiar with some of the other actresses/actors, but I definitely know their names now! They are phenomenal.

A must-see movie, with a very important message for the audience.

I attended the world premier of this movie at SXSW and was very impressed with how this film handled issues of mental health with both dignity and humor. The performances were beyond exceptional and the script was refreshing and nuanced. For a first time director and writer to make his debut in this fashion is truly remarkable. I can't wait for this film to hit theaters so I can see it again.

The writer/director dared to share his very personal story through the lens of two minoritized women. This was a very courageous and rare step to take which also should be applauded because the execution comes off flawlessly.

I saw My Dead Friend Zoe at the SXSW premiere after having seen Kyle Hausmann-Stokes' original short film, Merit + Zoe, and I can honestly say, I was blown away by the finished product. The short laid the groundwork for a uniquely interesting story, and this film brought it to life in such a human, funny, real, and emotional way. This is truly one of the most heartfelt movies I have seen in a long time.

I am understating it when I say Sonequa Martin-Green gave an award-worthy performance as Merit. The rest of the team (including Natalie Morales, Utkarsh Ambudkar, Ed Harris, Morgan Freeman, and Gloria Reuben) are perfectly cast in their roles. While the storyline is military-focused and it paints what feels like a very real picture of the camaraderie, anxiety, and uncertainty of service, the story it weaves about friendship and loss and love and forgiveness is incredibly universal and absolutely beautiful.

Wow! Kyle Stokes gave us a real bright light on what we as soldiers and families endure as veterans. I just received by DD 214 and folded flag the Wednesday before this premier. My Army retirement hasn't really hit me yet.....this film is a gift to all veterans, past, present and future. The acronym LDRSHIP was exhibited nicely: Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless service, Honor, Integrity and Personal Courage. These seven basic values are what makes this film so special. These values are what is going to make Kyle Stokes an excellent writer and director in the film industry. I look forward to his future productions.

These are the kind of thoughtful movies that are now shoved aside by blockbuster franchises and empty tripe like Mickey 17. Sonequa Martin- Green is an Army veteran still speaking to her dead friend Natalie Morales for unspecified reasons while dealing with the early onset Alzheimer's of her grandfather (Ed Harris). The film meanders, and a possible romance with a jovial nursing home worker doesn't really amount to anything, but the film has important things to say about issues plaguing our country's veterans, and with Trump trying to erase all evidence of women in uniform, Green appearing in khakis is a powerful statement unto itself. A movie that will stay with you.

Giving eight out of ten might seem like I did not enjoy the film that much, but that is far from true: for me it is actually a really, really high rating (I am a very picky movie watcher)! I watched the film at the TFF in Turin a few days ago, and I was quite happy the director was there to tell us the story behind the film, the reason why he chose two female actresses (fair point, by the way), etc. I guess he put his heart and soul into it, and it shows. It is a very honest film about PTSD, which got me thinking and made me both laugh and cry, which not many movies manage to do. It is the best I have seen so far at this year's TFF. The acting is also great, I loved the two main characters.

I had spent a long time waiting to be able to see this film, not for any particular reason, it just seemed like something I really wanted to see. When my local library added it, I had them send me a copy.

It's a wonderful movie.

I thought the casting was terrific, and this is a story that does need to be told. I was so touched by the performances, and invested in the plot. We all have difficulties we need to work through, and seeing someone succeed can bring tears to your eyes.

I don't want to explain more about this movie, it's best to go in knowing not so much, but I just wish as many people could see it. It's such a strong movie, and even though the subject matter isn't the easiest, it also has multiple moments that make you laugh. It feels so real. Please do yourself a favor, and check this out. 8/10.

I am a teenager who comes from a family of veterans. I have never once related or connected to a veteran in a film like I have other characters (and, fitting the Gen Z stereotype, I have watched a lot of movies and TV shows), but this movie has completely changed that. Merit and Zoe were real, raw, and truly human.

Overall, this movie was incredible. I don't have many words to describe it, other than I saw my dad emotional for the first time because of it. I will see it again when it comes out in theaters and urge every person in my wake to see this movie. It is not only excellent, but also extremely important. Please go watch My Dead Friend Zoe.

I'm a Viet Nam era veteran so this film has special meaning to me. That said, I believe everyone should see this film.

I saw the movie last night at the Mill Valley Film Festival and believe it to be one of best films I've seen in years. Creative depiction of the issues so many veterans experience. The wonderful script, direction and perfect selection of actors make this a movie not to be missed and to be seen again and again with friends.

The choice of women veterans of the Afghanistan War as primary focus of the film was both insightful and knowledgeable of the various ways male and female veterans can be affected by their military service.

Kyle Hausmann Stokes has created and directed a truly unique and meaningful film. This film and it's actors should win many awards in the coming year.

This feature film delivers a raw, emotionally charged portrayal of how individuals process pain, blending it with a soundtrack that seamlessly aligns with both the unfolding timeline and the complex characters. With perfectly paced editing and an unexpected conclusion, it compels the audience to reflect deeply on their own emotional experiences. The performances are top-notch, bringing life to a fresh and much-needed perspective on military narratives. Its authenticity, powerful storytelling, and innovative approach make it a standout, redefining the genre in a way that resonates long after the credits roll.

The positive reviews and the unique general concept intrigued me enough to convince me to see "My Dead Friend Zoe." What could go wrong with a dramedy about a war veteran who sees her dead army friend? I knew nothing would go wrong, but I'm surprised it's way more complex, thought-provoking, emotionally moving, and mesmerizing.

First, the performances were incredible. Legends Morgan Freeman and Ed Harris were almost guaranteed to deliver, but the central duo - Sonequa Martin-Green and Natalie Morales as Merit and the titular Zoe - bring outstanding work. Merit is a tragic figure attempting to move on with her life post-war, which is uprooted by the simple fact that she sees the movie's namesake. Who I expected to be a hilarious character was to an extent, but Zoe's more than just that. That said, Morales outshines Martin-Green by being incredibly entertaining.

Next, Kyle Hausmann-Stokes does fantastic work directing- and script-wise alongside A. J. Bermudez and Cherish Chen. Their work makes the narrative much more simultaneously heartwarming and heartbreaking than it had any right to be, and it's more the latter. They didn't mess around in developing the seemingly silly premise into a strong piece that covers topics like PTSD. Even Zoe's inclusion and ensuing backstory are more shocking than I ever anticipated. I can't spoil it, as not knowing it beforehand will enhance the gut punch hinted at throughout the film.

Though it inarguably is a dramedy, it's more of a drama than a comedy. Admittedly, there are many solid jokes, mainly from Zoe, but the drama makes this movie what it is. Completely leaning into the comedic qualities would've lessened its overall impact.

Finally, the 1-hour and 43-minute runtime never wastes or bores. Every moment enriches the already rich narrative and its effect on others, which I appreciate immensely.

"My Dead Friend Zoe" should've made the Top 10 during its opening weekend because it deserved it. It's worthy of your attention for its uniqueness alone, but its unanticipated direction will grip you.

Technically, the acting, directing, and screenplay make for a 10/10 technical score.

For the enjoyment score, I loved it! It's far from an easy watch, but it's worth it for its authentic heart and earnest depiction of PTSD. As a bonus, Sonequa Martin-Green and Natalie Morales are so exceptional as Merit and Zoe that they make this a must-watch alone. For those reasons, "My Dead Friend Zoe" gets a 10/10 enjoyment score! Please check this gem out in theaters!

As another reviewer said, this was the best film at SXSW 2024 BY FAR. First, how remarkable it is to have a white director cast minority women in the lead roles - that in itself is amazing. However, it is the skill in which the director (and writers) are able to combine laugh-out-loud humor with the serious issues at hand and have the audience get a sense of the challenges facing veterans that really leaves the audience moved. You can really see and feel the HEART that went into this film, and I've been telling everyone I know about it. Keep your eye on this director -- he's going places FOR SURE.