On Tuesday, September 29th, the New York Young Leaders gathered for a private screening of the acclaimed documentary I Am Chris Farley.
The event was hosted by the Executive Producer of the documentary, Kevin Farley, who is also the brother of the late Chris Farley.
The evening began with a welcome cocktail reception at Neuehouse, a private members only club, co-founded by New York Young Leader James O’Reilly. The guests gathered and had the opportunity to take photos with Kevin while enjoying complimentary cocktails from Jameson Irish Whiskey and Lagunitas beer.
Irish TV was on hand to conduct an interview with Kevin Farley about the documentary and to discuss the Irish heritage of the Farley family.
The guests then moved into the screening room where the National Director of The Young Leaders, Pat Tully, welcomed the guests and formally introduced Kevin and the film. He recalled the comedic talents of Chris Farley and his tragic death. Pat then highlighted organizations in Ireland, supported by The American Ireland Fund that help people with substance abuse issues, get the assistance they need to get back on their feet and back to their lives.
The film began with a journey through Chris’ early life and featured interviews with Chris’ brothers and childhood friends. The film then went into Chris’ early days at Second City and then his discovery by Mike Myers and Lorne Michaels, creator of Saturday Night Live. Lorne spoke openly and warmly about Chris’ incredible natural talent and how profoundly sad he was to hear of his passing. Mike Myers spoke about casting Chris in the movie, Wayne’s World and how it was the first film for both Chris and Mike.
After the film, Pat Tully hosted a Q&A with Kevin Farley. Kevin gave the guests an insight into what it was like growing up in the Farley household with four brothers and revealed that the movie Tommy Boy was loosely based on Chris working for his father in the family asphalt business. Kevin also spoke about his experiences traveling to Ireland and a movie he filmed there titled The Yank, with Colm Meaney. Kevin then pulled a raffle for a pair of tickets on Delta Airlines, which was won by Young Leader Andrew McLeod.
After the Q&A, the guests joined Kevin for a meet and greet reception.
Special thanks to Kevin Farley, Delta Airlines, Lagunitas beer, Jameson Irish Whiskey, Irish TV and the staff at Neuehouse.
