What better person could there be to tell a complicated story about veterans than a veteran himself? That’s one of the reasons co-writer and director Kyle Hausmann-Stokes’ ‘My Dead Friend Zoe’ works so well. A decorated former Staff Sgt. who served in the Army’s Airborne Infantry, Hausmann-Stokes adapted the story from his own experiences, which lends an intimate credibility to his dark comedy-drama.
At its core, ‘My Dead Friend Zoe’ revolves around Merit (Sonequa Martin-Green), a veteran who proudly carries on a family tradition of military service. However, her return from a tour in Afghanistan is marked by the haunting presence of her deceased friend and platoon mate, Zoe (Natalie Morales). Merit finds herself reluctantly attending group therapy sessions while also grappling with strained relationships within her family. Her mother (Gloria Reuben) insists on placing her ailing grandfather (Ed Harris) in an assisted living facility, leading Merit to move in and care for him. As she confronts her own trauma and confrontations with her family, Merit begins to unravel the mysteries surrounding Zoe’s ghostly presence.
One of the most intriguing aspects of ‘My Dead Friend Zoe’ is the decision by Hausmann-Stokes, a white man, to center his story around two women of color. This choice brings a fresh perspective to a genre often dominated by male-centric narratives. Martin-Green and Morales deliver standout performances, imbuing their characters with depth and authenticity. Their onscreen chemistry is profound, grounding the film’s emotional core and adding layers of complexity to their characters’ relationships.
The film delves into the tangled web of human relationships, exploring the bonds of friendship and family amidst the backdrop of trauma and loss. Hausmann-Stokes skillfully navigates these themes, blending humor and heartache to create an entertaining and thought-provoking narrative. The inclusion of abrupt flashbacks adds to the suspense, keeping audiences engaged as they piece together the puzzle of Zoe’s story.
While ‘My Dead Friend Zoe’ occasionally suffers from narrative meandering as it juggles multiple storylines, the emotional resonance of the film remains strong. Martin-Green’s portrayal of Merit is particularly compelling, capturing the character’s inner turmoil with raw intensity. Morales shines as Zoe, infusing the character with humor and warmth, even in moments of darkness.
Ed Harris delivers a nuanced performance as Merit’s grandfather, bringing depth and humanity to the role. His interactions with Martin-Green’s character are among the film’s most poignant moments, highlighting the complexities of family dynamics and the power of forgiveness.
As the film draws to a close, Hausmann-Stokes uses the platform to raise awareness about veterans’ ongoing mental health challenges. The film serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of supporting those who have served and honoring their sacrifices.
‘My Dead Friend Zoe’ is a haunting and emotionally resonant film that offers a unique perspective on the struggles of returning veterans. Hausmann-Stokes’ personal touch infuses the story with authenticity, while the standout performances elevate the narrative. With its blend of humor, heartache, and humanity, My Dead Friend Zoe is a testament to the power of storytelling to illuminate the human experience and spark meaningful conversations.