Man In Red Bandana

Man in Red Bandana is an evocative, inspiring, and deeply moving 2017 documentary film narrated by the compelling voice of the Golden Globe-winning, Academy Award-nominated actress Gwyneth Paltrow. The unforgettable story unfolds through conversations with those who knew Welles Remy Crowther well, including his parents, Alison and Jefferson Crowther. This documentary is a poignant exploration into the life, deeds, and enduring legacy of an extraordinary young man who sacrificed his life to save others in the face of an unprecedented tragedy.

Born and raised in Nyack, New York, Welles Remy Crowther was an investment banker and a volunteer firefighter who worked on the 104th floor of the World Trade Center's South Tower. Well-known for always carrying a red bandana, a habit he picked up from his father when he was a boy, Welles' emblematic bandana forms the poignant centerpiece of this unforgettable documentary. It epitomizes his selfless character, remarkable bravery, and the indomitable spirit of humanity at its best.

The film traces Welles' journey from his early days as a high-spirited, vivacious child with a strong calling towards public service, to his time as an accomplished lacrosse player at Boston College, and then his transition into the financial world at Sandler O’Neill and Partners. This narrative backdrop sets the stage for the narrative’s heart-wrenching turn to the horrific events of September 11th, 2001.

While being acutely sensitive to the tragedy that the day represents, the story focuses on Welles’ uncanny bravery and self-sacrifice. On that fateful day, Welles made the ultimate selfless choice by using his firefighter training to lead numerous people to safety instead of saving himself. He became known as ‘the man in the red bandana’ due to the handkerchief he wore around his face to shield himself from the smoke and debris.

The film doesn't shy away from the horrors of that unforgettable day, and it’s through these emotionally profound and painful sequences that the magnitude of Welles’ bravery truly shines. But it resists the familiar tropes of sensationalism, choosing instead to treat the events with respect, reverence, and a deep dignity, in honor of all those affected.

The documentary underscores the impact and the ripple effect of Welles’ gallant sacrifice by incorporating touching interviews with survivors who owe their lives to him, like Judy Wein, a survivor who identified Welles from a photograph as the man who saved her life. The portraits of the survivors and their personal tales offer an incredible testament to Welles’ bravery and his place as an unsung American hero.

One of the most impressive aspects of the film is its careful and detailed examination of Welles as a person beyond just the events of 9/11. Family photos, home videos, and interviews with friends, family, and former teammates paint a vivid picture of Welles as a fully realized human being. This goes a long way in enhancing the potent emotional resonance of the film and solidifies the captivating nature of Welles' story, separate from his heroic acts.

Man in Red Bandana also delves into the aftermath of Welles Crowther's death, exploring the enduring impact of his actions on the lives of survivors and on broader American society. It charts the recognition and awards given posthumously to Welles, including the Presidential Citizens Medal bestowed by Barack Obama.

Directed by Matthew J. Weiss, the film astutely blends testimonies, archival footage, reenactments, news broadcasts, and deeply personal narratives to tell an authentic and profoundly moving tale. In doing so, it conveys a sense of Welles' magnetic persona, his heroism, and the magnitude of his loss.

Man in Red Bandana is an extraordinary journey through the life of an everyday hero. Its recounting of a personal story amidst an epic tragedy is poignant, inspiring, and a sobering reminder of the bravery which often arises from the most devastating of circumstances. Above all, this film stands as a touching tribute to Welles Remy Crowther, whose legacy continues to inspire and resonate in our collective memory.