Ruiz
After a spirited Air Force member tragically dies in a war plane crash in Afghanistan, her heartbroken family and friends navigate their grief, finding solace in shared memories of her infectious joy.
26 mins
At the core of these memories is Kcey, a spirited young woman of Puerto Rican and African American heritage. Her infectious spirit and uniquely endearing laugh became her signature, filling every room with infectious energy and joy. As a child, Kcey's spirited antics foreshadowed her future strength; she later emerged as a formidable member of the Air Force. Recollections from her mother, father, sister, childhood friend, and a battle buddy capture the essence of Kcey, from her infectious laughter to her cherished moments under the Afghan sunsets. Each memory serves as a testament to a life lived passionately. However, heartbreak strikes when, amid war, a plane crashes, claiming Kcey's life. As they grapple with this devastating loss, her loved ones oscillate between despair and denial, occasionally seeking refuge in work or the numbing embrace of alcohol. Yet, as they collectively mourn, they discover solace in their shared memories of Kcey's radiant spirit.
Michael Ruiz
Michael Ruiz
Kyhia Ruiz
Kyhia Ruiz
Maya Ruiz
Maya Ruiz
Jazz Krebs
Jazz Krebs
Tevin Henderson
Tevin Henderson
Jesse Collier Sutterley
Director
Andrés Gallegos
Cinematography
Dan Olmsted
Sound Designer
Jesse Collier Sutterley
Writer
Jesse Collier Sutterley
Editor
Isaac Billanfante
Production Assistant
Daniel L. Bernardi
Writer
Alexis Cabrera
Digital Producer
Birdy Wei-Ting Hung
Production Coordinator
Andrés Gallegos
Colorist
Dan Olmsted
Sound Mixer
Birdy Wei-Ting Hung
Sound Recordist
Daniel L. Bernardi
Producer