Educational Media Reviews Online

Dear Ani is a powerful, attention-grabbing short documentary that tells an unbelievable story as told by Keith Wasserman.

Keith’s story begins in 1995 when he decides to take a semester off of college to find his creative voice, in a rural area of Northern Maine. He asks the universe for a sign. Unexpectedly, he receives a package from an acquaintance that contains an Ani DiFranco mixtape. At the time, Keith was completely unfamiliar with the now well-known singer-songwriter. He decides to give it a try and instantly becomes obsessed.

Determined to make an impression on her, Keith sends Ani DiFranco stream of consciousness letters, enclosed in handcrafted envelopes and puzzle-like packages with lyrics, collage, and original drawings. For decades, Keith writes to her, convinced she not only reads his letters but responds directly to him through her song lyrics. As the audience learns more about Keith’s extreme behavior and manic episodes, the film hinges on the question, is he delusional or are he and Ani DiFranco experiencing a reciprocal, true soul connection?

Directed by Micah Levin, Dear Ani dazzles with scene transitions that explode into a kaleidoscope of intricate, vibrant art pieces, capturing the playful experience of unraveling Keith Wasserman’s curious packages. Underneath Keith Wasserman’s larger-than-life story lies a sincere exploration of mental health, friendship, creative expression, and fame. The film is fast-paced, weaving old video footage of Keith with photos and interviews with his friends. Dear Ani expertly tells Keith’s incredible story that exemplifies the power of artistic expression to create a shared emotional experience even among strangers.

Dear Ani is highly recommended for adult audiences interested in human interest stories, storytelling, music, and mental health.

Awards:
Best Long Short. 18th Topanga Film Festival; Best Short Doc, Hot Docs; Best Regional Short Doc, New Hampshire Film Fest; Best Short Doc, Culver City Film Fest; Audience Award Best Short, Centre Film Fest; Best Short Doc, Atlanta Docufest

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