One of the things that one hopes comes out of a minor or major tragedy is the decision or ability to empathize with others; in addition to your pain, you realize that other folks have been/are going through hell and back as well. John Touhey and Mark Lickona's film September 12th does just that. It's the story of a family dealing with the loss of Lori Rega (daughter, sister and fiance) on September 11 and three years thereafter. Set in NYC, the film is very somber and emotional. Joe Iacovino plays Lori's brother Frank, a prodigal son adrift in NYC. James Garrett plays Lori's fiance, Rick, a responsible sort who still worships Lori and can't seem to move on. Besides being very different people Frank and Rick have very different memories of Lori and who she was in their lives.

The film is very well-written, with believable dialogue delivered with power, especially by the lead. Rick and Frank get through the pain and violence of opening up their true feelings but only Rick gets closer to the healing process. But not Frank 'cause, well, he's the Frank in all of us: Obsessed with our own pain and confusion, with no idea how to heal. And like many of us, he moves further down the path of revenge and violence toward Eddie, played well by Earnest Mingone, a lawyer who Frank thinks is trying to hustle his family concerning the events of 911. As Frank learns, it is not a good idea to pre-judge others until you have walked a mile in their shoes.

September 12th is a competent, independent film, directed and shot well. The power I mentioned above comes from how real the story is; not just because of the gravity of 911 but the execution of the story and how the filmmakers framed it. They showed subtlety and restraint. Again, some viewers might find the pacing heavy but in fairness, the film deals with a heavy theme.  It was a winner at the 2005 Long Island Film Festival, picking up the Jury and Audience Awards and has garnered critical praise. It's well-deserved and I recommend it.

Magicfying Films, written by Mark Lickonia and John Touhey, directed by John Touhey, and produced by Louis Giovino. Go to www.september12th.com for more info on the film, where to purchase, and arrange screenings.

rev. by Jerry W. Brewington, 6/20/06