Our Friend Jon

I saw Our Friend Jon last night at the Valley Film Festival here in Los Angeles in the valley. Just a terrific documentary about the making of a movie written by a Jon Hernandez who passed from Sickle cell anemia before the film could be made. The filmmakers of the film within the doc all have special needs or disabilities which don't seem to get in the way of their passion about making Jon's horror film come to life. It was inspiring to see, as my step father had spina bifida which one of the filmmakers, the director of the doc's brother, Garret Payson also has and to see him over come his disability and finish the film is truly inspiring. And a close relative of mine is autistic and my wife has worked with kids with special needs for years - so it was wonderful to see a film highlight the talents of people who often get over looked in our society.

I went into the screening not knowing anything about the movie. The last time I did that was my friend's doc, Dear Zachary, and the result was me being a blubbering mess as I cried my eyes out at the twists and turns of that documentary. Our Friend Jon did the same to me last night although I am happy to say the film has an optimistic ending that should inspire any burgeoning filmmaker.

I highly recommend the film.

This documentary doesn't have to try and give you feels, it just does it. Our Friend Jon makes you take a step back and question your own personal issues and makes you ask yourself, "is my issue really THAT big?" From start to finish it will have you appreciating life on another level!

I just watched this movie at The Widescreen Film Festival in Las Vegas where it won best documentary. A very emotional and awe inspiring story about a group of friends with special needs who make a movie written by their friend who passed away from Sickle Cell Anemia. It's an emotional roller coaster that's best when viewed with a close friend. I hope a major studio buys this so I can see it again.

Our Friend Jon was truly inspiring. Watching the first 10 minutes of the film, I was not only drawn in, but trying to keep my composure. Being a fellow filmmaker, it was amazing to see the stories we have potential to bring to life. Especially seeing someone from Waltham doing it at this level. There are laughs and cries throughout the whole video. Nothing is impossible when you are dedicated and do it with heart. An amazing tribute and experience top to bottom. A really well-done underdog story.

-Zach (HBZ Media)

This film was so amazing and touching. I love to see such strength and kindness in people. I was lucky enough to be part of a small Art/Film/Music Festival as a musician and I felt like seeing that before we played really touched us. I can honestly say I will be watching this movie more than a few more times!!