A Heartfelt Exploration of PTSD Across Generations
Directed by Kyle-Howman-Stokes in his impressive directorial debut, the film explores the complex, haunting effects of PTSD through the lens of two generations of soldiers—a Vietnam veteran and his granddaughter, an Afghanistan veteran. We had the chance to interview the actors on the red carpet prior to the film, which only heightened our anticipation.
The story revolves around Merritt (Sonequa Martin-Green), an Afghanistan veteran who is haunted by visions of her deceased best friend from the army, Zoe. Merritt’s struggle with PTSD is juxtaposed with that of her grandfather (Ed Harris), a Vietnam vet who faces his own battles with trauma and Alzheimer’s. Their confrontations at the family’s ancestral lakehouse become a poignant exploration of generational differences in coping with the horrors of war.
Sonequa Martin-Green delivers a powerful performance as Merritt, masterfully capturing the emotional turmoil and resilience of a soldier battling internal demons. Her portrayal is nuanced, with a remarkable ability to convey deep emotion while holding back tears—a technique that makes her character’s pain palpable and relatable.
Ed Harris is equally compelling as the grizzled Vietnam vet. His portrayal of a man who was reviled upon his return from war contrasts starkly with Merritt’s experience of being honored, highlighting the societal shifts in the perception of soldiers.
Morgan Freeman is fanastic as usual, adding a lot of depth and gravitas to the film as the group therapy leader, offering solace and wisdom to veterans grappling with their pasts. His scenes with Martin-Green are particularly memorable, exuding warmth and empathy. Utkarsh Ambudkar brings a refreshing lightness to the film, playing the caretaker at an old folks’ home and Merritt’s potential love interest. His presence helps balance the darker elements of the story, ensuring the film remains engaging and uplifting.
Kyle Howman Stokes’ direction is confident and insightful. His background as a veteran himself adds authenticity and sensitivity to the narrative. The cinematography beautifully captures the serene yet haunting atmosphere of the lakehouse, enhancing the film’s emotional impact.
The film’s exploration of PTSD across generations is both unique and necessary. There’s a dramatic boat scene, where Merritt and her grandfather debate their respective wartime experiences, is particularly poignant, shedding light on how societal attitudes towards soldiers have evolved. The scene is very impactful and will no doubt ellicit emotions from anyone that has experienced wartime PTSD.
Despite its heavy themes, the film is imbued with warmth and humor. The moments of levity, coupled with the strong performances, prevent the narrative from becoming overly dark or depressing. The film’s eventual message is both powerful and valuable, encouraging dialogue and understanding about the lasting effects of war.
Overall I thought My Dead Friend Zoe is a heartfelt, well-acted film that stands out as a remarkable directorial debut for Kyle Howman Stokes, with an incredible reception at SXSW. Its personal and authentic portrayal of PTSD, combined with outstanding performances, make it a must-watch. Set to release on February 28th, this film is definitely worth your time.
FINAL VERDICT: 4/5 ★★★★☆
I hope you find this revised review helpful! Let me know if there’s anything else you’d like to add or change. 😊