Shovel Buddies

Shovel Buddies is a 2016 drama film that tells the story of a group of four friends who embark on a journey to complete a final wish for their dear friend, Sam, who had passed away. The movie stars Bella Thorne, Alex Neustaedter, and Jenny Cooper in the lead roles.

The film is set in a small town where four friends, Jimmy, Dan, Kate, and Hutch, are mourning the loss of their best friend, Sam. Before he died, Sam had sent a video to the group, requesting them to fulfill his last wish - to bury him in his favorite football jersey. The only problem was that the cemetery was miles away, and they had only a few hours to complete the burial before Sam's family arrived. The group sets out on a quest to fulfill their fallen friend's final request, but they soon realize that the journey is full of obstacles, both emotional and physical.

The film is primarily focused on the four friends and their relationships with each other. Jimmy (played by Alex Neustaedter) is shown as the responsible one, who takes charge of the situation and tries to keep the others in check. Dan (played by Kian Lawley) is the quirky one, who provides the comic relief with his one-liners and antics. Kate (played by Bella Thorne) is the love interest of Jimmy and provides the emotional depth to the story. Hutch (played by Anton Starkman) is the youngest of the group, and his innocence and naivety provide a charming contrast to the other characters.

The movie is directed by Simon Atkinson and Adam Townley and is their feature film debut. The screenplay is written by Jason Mark Hellerman, who has worked on several popular TV shows and films. The film's production values are minimal, and most of the scenes are shot on location, adding authenticity to the story.

One of the highlights of the movie is the chemistry between the actors. The four leads bring a sense of authenticity to their roles, and their interactions are natural and believable. The movie's pacing is tight, and the story moves at a brisk pace, keeping the viewer engaged throughout.

The film's soundtrack is also noteworthy. The music is composed by John Swihart, who has worked on several popular films and TV shows. The music sets the mood for each scene, and the songs add an additional layer of emotion to the story.

The film's themes revolve around friendship, loss, and acceptance. The movie emphasizes that friendships can be a source of strength and support during difficult times. The characters learn to accept their friend's death and move on with their lives, but they also realize that the memories and experiences they shared with Sam will always be a part of them.

In conclusion, Shovel Buddies is a heartwarming story of friendship and acceptance that will resonate with viewers of all ages. The film's strong performances, engaging storyline, and poignant themes make it a must-watch for anyone looking for a touching, feel-good movie.