Having three sons and a husband who all loves cars, I am very familiar with the work of Paul Walker who played the role of Brian O’Conner in the many ‘Fast and Furious’ films. My son’s teenage years were punctuated by the release of each new film. I thought I knew the person behind that handsome visage. However, with the release of new feature-length documentary “I Am Paul Walker” I learned so much more about this talented actor, father, beloved brother and son, automobile and marine enthusiast.
This film is a labour of love and it is at times difficult to watch the pain etched on the faces of Paul’s family. This heartbreaking story intersperses an extensive archive of film footage with home video, still photos and interviews with Paul Walker’s family, friends, fellow actors, directors and agents. This man was so well liked and well-loved and the light of his life was his daughter, Meadow.
Did you know Paul Walker had been acting since he was two or that he had always wanted to be a marine biologist? Any chance he had he headed for the water either surfing, snorkelling or helping researchers with his other passion -sharks and his quiet dedication to humanitarian causes through his NGO and Reach Out Worldwide defined the character of the man behind one of the most successful film franchises in history.
I’d forgotten his roles in Pleasantville and Varsity Blues and the best was seemingly yet to come for this 40 year old who was lost to us too soon in a tragic automobile accident. This documentary will only play for a limited season from 21 September. You will find it moving, surprising and tragic all at once. Don’t forget to take your tissues.
Michelle Beesley is a Brisbane born and bred former primary school teacher. A wife, proud grandma and mother of three grown sons, Michelle is thrilled to have recently published her debut contemporary romance novel, It Happened in Paris, with Serenade Publishing. Her novella – Escape to D’ Amour was published in 2019. Michelle’s work can be found in the anthologies – Destination Romance and Short & Sweet. When not reading or writing Michelle can be found at a coffee shop chatting with friends, front row at a fashion show, or beside a rugby union field cheering on her favourite teams.
Michelle is a reluctant traveller, Francophile, keen walker and avid yoga enthusiast plus a book, film and theatre lover who loves everything pink and sparkly (including champagne). You can find Michelle on instagram @michellebeesley_writer and her website: michellebeesley.com.
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