Firefighter

A very moving film about what it means to be a hero, and how family can help you back to yourself. Firefighter Kenny Ruane plays himself in a searing performance that will touch everyone who sees the film. Vanessa Ruane's direction is masterful, making this not really a short film, but a mini feature. A personal story, with universal appeal, this movie is particularly relevant now. It explores the concept of what is heroic, how we maintain our ideals in the face of tragedy, and how love can conquer hate. I've seen this film with festival audiences, and there are always people crying, and applauding wildly at the end. Vanessa Ruane has taken the adage, "Write what you know" and created a beautiful film about her father and her family. Kudos!