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Jules, this is Brian. Ah- listen, I'm on an airplane

@cnn

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Why it worked

The video's impact comes from the raw, emotional content of a final message during a tragic historical event. The personal nature of the voicemail, combined with the gravity of 9/11, creates a powerful and memorable viewing experience that resonates deeply with audiences.

Summary

This video features a voicemail from Brian Sweeney, a passenger on United Airlines Flight 175, to his wife Julie on September 11, 2001. In the recording, he expresses his love and gives final messages, knowing the plane has been hijacked.

Structure

1Introduction of Brian and the situation
2Expression of love and final wishes
3Farewell and hope for future contact

On-screen text

Jules, this is Brian. Ah- listen, I'm on an airplane that's been hijacked. If things don't go well, and it's not looking good, I just want you to know I absolutely love you, I want you to do good, go have good times- same to my parents and everybody- and I just totally love you, and I'll see you when you get there. Bye, babe. I hope I call you. Brian Sweeney Passenger on UA Flight 175 that hit South Tower Voicemail to his wife, Julie Credit: 9/11 Memorial and Museum

Transcript

Original caption

On September 11, 2001, 2,977 people were killed when terrorists hijacked four commercial airplanes, crashing them into the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and a field near Shanksville, Pennsylvania. This is one of the voicemail recordings left by a victim to a loved one in his final moments.