SOUVENIRย has its world premiere on Sunday, June 28th at 3 PM at Dances with Films 2026, and I had the opportunity to see it ahead of its release. Hereโs my spoiler-free take:
SOUVENIR is an indie dramedy and the brainchild of David Ketterer Spencer, a New York-based writer and director. The film features Dani (Ruby Cruz) and Kevin (Eric Berryman), who are two fine actors with extensive resumes.ย
The plot follows two old friends whose paths cross by chance after a four-year gap in their hectic lives. Their friendship takes on discoveries and explorations of how they ended up where they did. Their short journey together takes them across New York City as they try to make sense of past and present choices. The film encourages audiences to answer one thought-provoking question. โIf someone found your wallet, what would they think about you?โ Are there assumptions or trade-offs in the future? What does anyone really know to be the truth when dealing with strangers and even reunited friends? There is much to unravel and process.ย One thing is for sureโฆ “memory sucks.โ ย
Spencerโs take on relationships bears truth and acknowledgment. His viewpoint is fresh and edgy. Itโs as if the story unfolds with deliberate intentions, yet with an ease full to the brim with pointed dialogues. Be prepared, though. It is a slow burn as Kevin and Dani make their way to the final frame.ย
As I see it, as a visually impaired person, SOUVENIR was often very dark. At key moments, it was difficult to see what had been filmed and presented before my eyes. This always makes me feel like I am missing something important, but I have to add that my husband walked by my laptop as I was watching, and he even made the passing comment, โWhat a dark film.โย This made me feel better, knowing that my personal reaction was not true only for me.ย
SOUVENIR is an interesting concept regarding humanity and how our natural, innate tendencies often stand in the way of good intentions. It might even pull memories from our own past and cast shadows, doubts, and awe as to how anyone could keep it all together in our minds and hearts.ย
