41

On February 20, 2003, a fire at a Rhode Island concert club killed 100 people, the youngest of whom was singer/songwriter Nicky O'Neill, an 18-year-old teenager whose band, Shryne, was the opening act for the 80's metal band Great White. This documentary collaboration between O'Neill's older brother, Christian, and indie filmmaker Christian de Rezendes captures the young musician's life, from his wonderful childhood to the cusp of a young adulthood in which his self-assured musical talents strikingly transcended Rhode Island's garage band scene. Nicky can be identified on the video of the club crowd in turmoil as the flames begin to engulf the concert venue, shortly before his death. But Nicky's death was hardly the end of his story—in fact, 41 details how a totally unexpected chapter began for everyone who was part of his world, as unexplained happenings touched their lives and his odd obsession with the number 41 took on a new meaning among his family and friends. Warm, emotional, and utterly fascinating, this nonfiction feature is a beautiful tribute to a wonderful young man. Highly recommended. Aud: C, P. (P. Hall)