Daniel Zirilli

Daniel and I were friends. He had bought a few Zane Grey items from me. He especially liked the photos of my grandfather fishing. I last saw him in February of this year, he gave me some of my father's things he had come accross in his quest for memorabilia. He was so sweet. I will miss him. My condolences to his family. Jerilyn Grey

https://youtu.be/TnP9PeHbvTM?si=njxUoEerHleGE4mT

This article about grief was in the LA Times this morning https://www.latimes.com/opinion/story/2024-05-03/quail-turkey-birds-grief

In case anyone asks this is the plans for today: In case anyone wants to know: Daniel will be cremated and we have a boat to go into the ocean at sunset on Thursday at 4:30 or so. We will spread his ashes in the water and write biodegradable notes and flower petals in the ocean. My parents priest will join us. I can’t believe I found the strength to put this all together.

Please say a prayer or any other way you would like to honor Daniel at 4:30pm pacific time today May 2nd.. please pass this one. We are spreading his ashes i. The Pacific Ocean today at that time.

I am devastated. I cannot breathe and I cannot talk.

Daniel was not only a respected and experienced film-maker, but also was always very keen to support and nurture new talent, and to support the film industry of Thailand. He did me many favours - allowing me to visit his set and write an article for the Thailand Film Office magazine, attending events in Cannes and praising the film crews of Thailand, and attending the Thailand International Film Destination Festival. He was always incredibly generous with his time and energy. His services to the film industry of Thailand were invaluable, and he will be fondly missed by all those who knew him, and who benefitted enormously from knowing him. Thank you Daniel.

I fear that no words will appropriately capture the impact Daniel has had on the lives of others. As a person, his character embodied and reflected everything that he loved, family, film, good food, writing, music and of course Ernest Hemingway. As a friend, his love knew no limits. There was nothing that you couldn't ask of Daniel and there was nothing he wouldn't do for you. Although we've come from very different professional backgrounds, Daniel and I have also shared a wonderful bond. My fondest memory of Daniel will forever be our two hour conversation whilst on set in Bangkok. I was smoking a cigar while he regaled stories of his youth and being an aspiring singer. The pictures he showed me with his Bon Jovi esque haircut and rebellious smile will forever be etched into memory. I will always remember this moment, sitting with his hands folded on his stomach, smiling fondly at the things he accomplished in his life. Your father, your son, and your brother was a truly remarkable man who wore his heart on his sleeve. In many aspects, I feel he deserved more from life, he certainly deserved more from me. Thank you for sharing him with us as we've all become better people as a result of knowing him.

My heart is breaking for all of you! Talise and Calian, I know we’ve never met in person but have seen what a beautiful relationship you had with your Dad. I remember once many years ago when we visited, your Dad took my son Michael fishing. He was so wonderful with Mike and had him on his shoulders! He always was an easy going guy with a smile on his face! He was so proud of both of you! Kym, I remember how close you two were as children and adults. Your love for each other was so obvious! Diane and Dick, there are no words to express what you’re going through. Your faith in God I pray, will help get you through your grief. Much love!

So sorry to hear about this Loss! Only just worked with him a few months before your passing and remember having a heart warming conversation with him as we walked between locations. Sending you and your family my deepest sympathies.

Through my friendship with my dearest friend Kym and her lovely mom, Diane - Reading these tributes here - am so deeply moved and feeling so connected to Dan’s beauty- My sincerest prayers for all loved ones to be surrounded by peace .

Daniel was a really good man. Rare in this industry. He always worked hard and stived to be trust-worthy and keep his commitments. And a good friend. He may have made death a little less scary for me, as I know he'll be on the other side to greet me.

Danny....childhood memories of such a kind hearted person, helping others and loving. I am wrapping my arms around your family at this time. You are loved

I bought a book a few years ago, and little did I know it would impact my life in so many ways. It was called Making Movies without Losing Money. The last chapter was an interview with Daniel Zirilli, which included lessons from his experience. It was worth a read. My husband (Christian Peter) knew Daniel and spoke of him fondly. Christian then introduced me to Daniel. I was so excited; this is a film director/Producer I read about in a book with a full chapter dedicated to him, he was a producer on more than 85 films! I didn't realize how much that introduction, Daniel, and his chapter would have such a massive impact on me and so many people in our circle. Long story short, Daniel Produced my first feature film, a psychological thriller; Daniel taught me so much about resilience, love of life, and supporting others. He would give his last dollar to anyone in need, even if he needed it more himself. He impacted my career and many others. I will miss you, Daniel. You have touched my heart and soul; the last few days have been harrowing. I keep listening to your amazing voice notes and laughter. You will always be my inspiration, and I will carry your torch forward to continue the spirit of giving, friendship, and what we both loved most: storytelling, my friend my heart has a hole from which your light pours forth; your voice will guide me, I have starred all your wonderful tips and will have it as a reference forever, you will always be the Producer and friend that everyone needs in life but only a few were lucky to experience, rest in peace, my wonderful friend. My deepest condolences to everyone who you have impacted in endless ways. We will all always love you. Nayla Al Khaja

My sincerest and deepest condolences to the family… I’ve known Daniel since the late 80’s early 90’s … He will definitely be missed but never forgotten… Peace and prayers RIP my sweet friend

My deepest condolences for your loss.