Live action TV
Description
Memo, whose full name is Guillermo Gutierrez, is a human character from the 2018 film Bumblebee, living in the coastal town of Brighton Falls, California, during the year 1987. He works at a churros stand called Quique's Churros on the Brighton Falls Boardwalk. Memo is a teenager who is best described as an awkward and self-conscious nerd, a label he openly accepts. He has a deep interest in science fiction, evidenced by his hobby of reading magazines like GoBots Magazine and collecting action figures. His personal style and social demeanor align with the archetype of a non-athletic, somewhat socially clumsy individual. Despite his awkwardness, he is visibly a kind and well-intentioned person.

Memo's primary motivation at the start of his journey is his genuine romantic interest in his neighbor, Charlie Watson. He repeatedly tries and fails to introduce himself, building up his nerve to ask her on a date. However, after accidentally discovering her secret—that she is hiding a giant, sentient alien robot named Bumblebee—his motivations shift. He becomes driven by loyalty and a budding sense of bravery, choosing to help Charlie protect her friend despite the immense danger involved. His role in the story evolves from that of a shy, would-be suitor to a crucial human ally and confidant. After being sworn to secrecy, he becomes Charlie's partner in her adventures, which range from a poorly planned revenge prank to a dangerous mission to rescue Bumblebee from the clandestine government agency Sector Seven and two hostile Decepticons.

Key relationships are central to Memo's character. His relationship with Charlie Watson is the most significant, developing from one-sided admiration into a strong, trusting friendship forged through shared, life-threatening experiences. He is consistently supportive of her, even as she grapples with the grief of losing her father. He also forms a unique and accepting bond with Bumblebee. Although initially terrified upon first seeing the robot, he quickly overcomes his fear and accepts him, even assisting Charlie in a critical moment to repair and reactivate the Autobot. A small but telling detail is his relationship with his own mother, whom he asks an army officer to call after the climactic battle, highlighting his continued connection to his ordinary life.

Memo experiences notable character development, transforming from an insecure and timid teenager into a brave and reliable friend. Early on, he can barely speak to Charlie without panicking, having to mentally psych himself up. As the plot progresses, he overcomes this timidity in the face of far greater threats than social rejection. His most defining act of courage comes when he selflessly stays behind to delay a squad of armed soldiers, allowing Charlie and Bumblebee to escape and save the day. Though his attempt to hold them off is unsuccessful, the act itself demonstrates his growth from a passive admirer into an active hero. At the end of the film, he and Charlie are reunited, though they mutually agree that they are not yet at the stage of holding hands.

Memo does not possess any superhuman or extraordinary abilities. His value lies in his personal qualities: his unwavering loyalty, his growing courage, and his practical knowledge. As a local and a dedicated fan of science fiction, he is quick to accept the reality of alien robots, which helps him adapt to the extraordinary situation. His most significant contributions are his willingness to put himself in harm's way for his friends and his role as a steadfast supporter, proving that his character is defined not by special powers but by his heart and reliability.