Synopsis
Dear Zachary: A Letter to a Son About His Father is a 2008 American documentary conceived and created by Kurt Kuenne. It tells the story of Andrew Bagby, who was allegedly murdered by his girlfriend, and pays tribute to his son Zachary, who was subsequently also killed. The film serves as a visual scrapbook for Zachary, commemorating his father's life and legacy.
Why Watch It
A deeply personal documentary that transforms from intimate memorial into devastating true-crime tragedy, crafting an emotional gut-punch that builds with each revelation. Kuenne's handheld intimacy and unconventional structure make this one of cinema's most cathartic—and brutally unforgettable—explorations of grief and injustice. Fair warning: this film demands and deserves your full attention.
Did You Know?
- The film is based on a real-life tragic story.
- Created by Kurt Kuenne, a lifelong friend of Andrew Bagby's.
- It took Kurt Kuenne five years to make this documentary.
- The film was initially intended just for Zachary Bagby.
- Turner Classic Movies listed it among the top 15 influential documentaries.
Iconic Quotes
- "This is a movie about my friend, Andrew Bagby."
- "I can't believe I'm making this movie. I can't believe how this has all turned out."
- "You're a child. You're a baby. You're a baby who has been handed a hand grenade."
- "My son was not a dog. He was a person."
- "Andrew, you will always be my son. And Zachary, you will always be my grandson."
