HUMOR, HOPE AMID INCURABLE ILLNESS
By V.A. MUSETTO
Stephen Heywood holds his son, Alex.Rating:

October 13, 2006 -- 'SO Much So Fast" is a profile in courage revolving around the tragic life of Stephen Heywood, who at the age of just 29 discovered he had amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, an incurable neurological ailment better known as Lou Gehrig's disease.

The documentary, directed by Steven Ascher and Jeanne Jordan, follows Heywood through the five years after he received the bad news, during which he marries, has a child and physically deteriorates to the point where he is unable to move or speak.

ALS is an "orphan disease," which means not enough people have it to make it worthwhile for drug companies to seek a cure. So Stephen's older brother, Jamie, sets up a foundation in search of a remedy.

Despite its subject, "So Much So Fast" never becomes maudlin. Rather, it retains an upbeat air of hope, and even humor, as two brave men battle fate.

SO MUCH SO FAST
Running time: 87 minutes. Not rated (mature themes). At the Village East, Second Avenue and 12th Street.
http://www.nypost.com/seven/10132006...a__musetto.htm