Jim: The James Foley Story

About Jim: The James Foley Story

"Jim: The James Foley Story" is an American documentary film that focuses on the life, career, and legacy of American journalist James Foley, who was kidnapped in Syria in 2012 and later killed by the ISIS. The film captures Foley's passion for journalism and his commitment to truth-telling, even in the face of great personal danger. It also features interviews with his family, friends, and fellow journalists.

Making / Production

The film was directed by Brian Oakes, a close friend of Foley's, who chose to tell the story as a tribute to his friend's courage and dedication to reporting. It was produced by Eva Lipman, George Kunhardt, and Teddy Kunhardt, and distributed by HBO Documentary Films.

Actors

• Unai Aranzadi: As himself, Aranzadi faithfully portrayed a friend and colleague of James Foley, sharing intimate and personal insights into Foley's character.
• Zack Bazzi: Potraying himself, Bazzi gave an authentic representation of his interactions and experiences with James Foley.
• Manu Brabo: As himself, BraBo provided a heartfelt performance detailing his friendship with Foley and their shared experiences as journalists in conflict zones.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The movie was directed by Brian Oakes, a childhood friend of James Foley.
• "Jim: The James Foley Story" was primarily shot in the home of James Foley's family.
• The film contains Foley's handwritten notes and letters to his family while he was held captive.

Awards

"Jim: The James Foley Story" won the 2016 Sundance Film Festival's Audience Award for U.S. Documentary. It was also nominated for Primetime Emmy Awards for Exceptional Merit in Documentary Filmmaking and Outstanding Picture Editing for a Nonfiction Program.

Quotes

• "We live in a world where everyone's always trying to make sure that they're safe... and then there are people like Jim." - Unai Aranzadi
• "Jim could connect with any person he met... He had empathy that most people lack." - Manu Brabo

Music, Soundtrack

• "The James Foley Story: Original Soundtrack" was released featuring original compositions by Joel Goodman and Ty Unwin.
• The song "The Empty Chair" by J. Ralph & Sting, written for the film, was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Original Song.