39 Pounds of Love (2005)

Synopsis: 39 Pounds of Love is the inspirational and humorous non-fiction account of a remarkable man and a remarkable journey. Ami Ankilewitz was diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) -- an extremely... 39 Pounds of Love is the inspirational and humorous non-fiction account of a remarkable man and a remarkable journey. Ami Ankilewitz was diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) -- an extremely rare and often fatal form of muscular atrophy that severely limits his physical growth and movement yet at 34 years of age -- he continues to outlive a doctor’s prediction of life expectancy by 28 years. And counting. Ami, who weighs only 39 pounds, works in Israel as a 3D animator and creates his art despite the fact that his bodily motion is limited to a single finger on his left hand and in doing so, continues to redefine notions of a “limited” life. The film follows Ami’s journey in search of the doctor who predicted his early demise. Along his journey, Ami attempts to come to terms with another major incident from his past and to complete a lifelong dream: To finally ride a Harley Davidson. 39 Pounds of Love is an emotional roller coaster, a fascinating, humorous and truly inspirational ride through life with someone who embodies the very term, carpe diem (Seize the day). Director, Dani Menkin, first saw Ami in a Tel Aviv bar, and was instantly drawn to him and thus, began a relationship that would eventually lead to making the film. The logistics of undertaking such a journey were complicated and the risks were dangerously real. For Ami, who often requires special equipment, no detail could be overlooked or spared. A trailer was outfitted for Ami needs, and his best friend and former caretaker, Asaf, was on hand to provide physical assistance and support. And so, this seven-member crew set out on the road from Los Angeles, through the American southwest and eventually as far east as Florida in search of that doctor who had diagnosed Ami when he was born. Along the way, Ami's dream became the crew's dream as well: to document Ami’s journey, to find the doctor, to reconcile relationships, to tell his story, but above all, to give hope to others through its telling. From Ami's best friend Asaf, to his brother Oscar and mother Helena, everyone surrounding Ami, both onscreen and off was forced to come to terms with themselves, with their loves, their fears and their hopes, as they worked to keep both Ami and his dream alive. 39 Pounds of Love is an HBO/CINEMAX DOCUMENTARY FILM in association with PRIDDY BROTHERS ENTERTAINMENT and HEY JUDE PRODUCTIONS. --© Official Site [More]

Starring: Ami Ankilewitz

Starring: Ami Ankilewitz

Director: Dani Menkin

Director: Dani Menkin
Studio: Balcony Releasing

[See More Credits]