We had the opportunity to sit down with Matthew Weiss, a traffic lawyer who can now add film directing to his list of accomplishments. The Man In The Red Bandana is Weiss’ debut effort who first learns of Welles’ incredible story over lunch with Jefferson Crowther, Welles’ father. Weiss was amazed and inspired and quickly decided that everybody should hear this story and got Crowther’s permission and blessing to make the documentary.
This is a story of sacrifice, selflessness and how one person’s actions have touched and inspired others. Our film is about Welles Crowther, the hero of 9/11. Welles tragically died in the lobby of the South Tower when it collapsed. He lived to help others and his heroism was only discovered 8 months after the tragedy because of a standard object… a red bandanna. This film retraces the unique way in which his heroism was known, in addition to his final inspirational hour (his finest hour) saving others from upstream the South Tower. The film, then, depicts Welles’ folkloric stature across the United States including songs, artwork, and babies named in his honour. This piece of legacy leads to the revelation of an incredible secret about Welles that provides a perfect and encouraging ending.
OR: There are so many inspiring stories related to 911. What inspired you to join the Man In The Red Bandana project?
MW: The inspiration behind that story is incredible on every level, but what’s really exceptional is how a piece of cloth, a bandanna, can relieve suffering, soften tragedy, and create legacy.
OR: When you first spoke to Jeff Crowther, Welles’ father, what came to mind?
MW: The first time I spoke to Jeff was at lunch and that I was totally blown away by his son’s heroism. Welles saved at least 10 people including carrying one of them on his back down 17 steps through horrific conditions. He continued to rise and fall while the situation became a disastrous one. He wore a red bandanna over his mouth and this is what identified him as we learned from survivors.
OR: In talking to some of the survivors, do you believe they’re keeping Welles’ legacy alive and sharing their personal stories or do you find it difficult for them to continue to relive that fateful day?
MW: Some survivors discuss 9/11 and how they were saved by “a guy in a red bandanna” and others, will not discuss the tragedy of that day. It was very challenging to get some of the survivors to talk on camera, so, for some, I had to resort to low quality archival interviews and even just audio bites. For me, it is vital to remember our heroes and honor those who risked their lives.
OR: Can you share how the Crowthers are keeping the Welles legacy alive?
MW: The Crowther’s speak out in schools, in numerous communities and anywhere they can share their son’s story of heroism. They started a trust that has raised over 1 million and used the funds to help personify Welles’ values with some great organizations. They do diverse fundraisers such as Red Bandana Skate, Red Bandana 5k, and others.
OR: With the firefighters you interviewed for this documentary, what were some of the things they told us about Welles’ heroism?
MW: They were all impressed by Welles’ leadership in such appalling conditions, and that we need more people like him in this world. I strongly agree.
OR: When Gwyneth Paltrow was asked to tell her story, what was her initial reaction to the Man In The Red Bandana project?
MW: He was touched by the story and was happy to help. Gwyneth’s subtle, somber, and caring approach to telling the story really sets the tone for the film.
OR: How did you connect with Lyle Lovett to write the film’s ending theme?
MW: Stive Linek, a songwriter I know from Nashville, put me in touch with Lyle Lovett who collaborated with Steve on songwriting. It’s a heartwarming, moving tribute and really fleshes out the film.
OR: What are three important things to take away from the film?
MW: 1. The measure of a person is not how long he lives, but how he spends his life.
- Follow your heart and your dreams.
- Think of others more and fewer than yourself.
OR: Now that you have added film director to your resume, do you see yourself tackling other topics and if so which ones?
MW: Yes, this experience allowed me to work again with Chad Verdi and Verdi Productions on the new film, the so-called feature Dome. It is based on a real story involving the biggest heist from a vault in US history. In 1975, nearly $30 million was stolen from a vault in Providence, Rhode Island. I love the script written by B. Dolan and Tommy DeNucci because, like Man In Red Bandana, there are some incredible reveals.
OR: Did you really leave law to become a full-time film director?
MW: No, I still practice law but on a more limited basis for certain cases and issues. The rest of my time is dedicated to being an awesome father and husband, hot yoga and, obviously, filmmaking.
OR: Any tips or advice for aspiring film directors?
MW: Try to find opportunities to work with something bigger than yourself – something that can influence others with your actions or outlast you. This type of activity provides a distinctive kind of inner happiness that can’t be achieved in any other way. I’m happier and healthier by putting my time, money and effort into telling and sharing Welles Remy Crowther’s story and keeping his legacy alive. It is an honor and a privilege that Crowthers has granted me and that I (and at all times will) greatly appreciate it.
This movie is on released theatrically nationwide and can be downloaded on iTunes or Apple. and that I highly recommend that everybody see this documentary and share Welles Remy Crowther’s story. Yes!
