YOUR FRIEND, MEMPHIS

(director/writer: David P. Zucker;  cinematographer: David P. Zucker; editors: Darrin Navarro/Jody McVeigh-Schultz/David P. Zucker; music: Billy Libby; cast: Memphis Diangelis; Runtime: 93; MPAA Rating: NR; producers; Ben Edelman, Luke Terrell: 4th Row Films; 2022)

“It tells the inspirational story of the 20-something Austin, Texas resident Memphis Diangelis.”

Reviewed by Dennis Schwartz

It’s an honest coming-of-age YA drama, circa 2014, filmed as a documentary for over five years in the subject’s hometown by director and writer David P. Zucker, in his film debut.

It tells the inspirational story of the 20-something Austin, Texas resident Memphis Diangelis, a high-spirited young man with cerebral palsy, that was diagnosed with the disease when he was one, who stands 5’3,” is on public assistance, has a zeal for life and a positive attitude despite his obstacles.

The filmmaker follows Memphis around, talks to his caring divorced parents Christine and Edoardo, and finds that Memphis will probably always need caring for and might never be able to live on his own. It’s a heartbreaking tale since Memphis desires to be independent and that might not be in the cards, but the film leaves us with a bit of optimism for his future as it captures his awkwardness, his loneliness, his love for people and how easy it is to root for him.

REVIEWED ON 5/2/2022  GRADE: B-