In the first several minutes of Matthew Weiss’s documentary, Man in Red Bandana, friends, co-workers, and family members of Welles Remy Crowther, a twenty-four-year-old man who lost his life in the 9/11 terrorist attacks, describe him as loyal, fearless, kind, and giving. These words are fitting, as they form a theme throughout the film about Crowther’s indelible heroism during one of history’s darkest days.
The story centers around Crowther, a trader from Nyack, New York. His life was full—rich with a loving family and friends, but it ended too young, when he died in the collapse of the South Tower. During the months following, while his parents, friends, and countless New York firemen looked for his remains, an incredible story about his selfless heroism began to unfold–all because of the discovery of a red bandana he always carried with him. Through interviews with survivors whom Crowther helped, friends, city officials, and family members, the film re-traces how Crowther’s selflessness became known–he went up and down flights of stairs, using his red bandana to cover his mouth and nose from the smoke, and saving at least ten people by carrying them out on his back.
Directed by Matthew Weiss, a NYC-based lawyer and filmmaker, and narrated by GP, the film took six years to complete. “It was challenging to get some of the survivors to speak on camera,” says Weiss. “Some will never get over the tragedy and will never step foot again in New York City. For me, it’s important to remember our heroes and honor those who risked their lives and keep their legacy alive.”