The Throbbit

"The Throbbit" is a spirited independent comedy film that was released in 2015. This unique film directed by Timothy Alan Richardson and brought to life by the talents of stars including Bryce Cone, Scot Purkeypile, and Kiran Shah, synthesizes humor and fantasy to create a viewing experience that's anything but ordinary.

The film is a loving parody of J.R.R. Tolkien's classic work, "The Hobbit," paying homage while also deftly poking fun at the beloved tale. The title, "The Throbbit", is indicative of the film's tongue-in-cheek nature, which makes liberal use of puns and clever wordplay to comic effect. This contemporary spin on the Middle-earth epic is laden with humor that's whimsical and playful without straying into the realm of gross-out comedy, making it truly an exhilarity for audiences of varying comedic preferences.

"The Throbbit" is centered around the comical escapades of its hapless protagonist, Friedo (played with wonderful comedic charm by Bryce Cone). Friedo, an unlikely hero, is sequence of events involuntarily thrust into an epic journey to save the Directorium of Endor (a cheeky nod to George Lucas' Star Wars). Despite his diminutive stature and seemingly cowardly disposition, Friedo exhibits an enormous amount of heart that progressively renders him a lovable underdog.

The film's ensemble cast procures laughter from every corner. Scot Purkeypile makes a brilliant appearance as Wobbley, creating a unique blend of charm and waif-like innocence, reminding viewers of why they were all seduced by the original hobbits. Last but not the least, Kiran Shah, best known for his work in "The Hobbit," "The Chronicles of Narnia," and "Star Wars" series, gives a notable performance adding a touch of authenticity to this spoof narrative.

While the storyline and plot twists draw heavily from the original Tolkien mythos, the film also explores original and creative tangents filled with humor, wit, and satirical commentary on the fantasy genre. The fun-filled adventure sees Friedo and his motley crew of Throbbit compatriots encounter an array of fantastical creatures with hilarious outcomes.

Clearly made on a modest budget, one of the most endearing attributes of ”The Throbbit” is the palpable passion for storytelling that emanates from every frame. Despite the lack of high-grade special effects or lavish sets, the film has an intimate, handmade quality to it that makes for a charmingly nostalgic viewing experience. The production team's creativity and resourcefulness shine through particularly in the costuming and production design, demonstrating that a film doesn't require a lavish budget to make a lasting impact - all it needs is heart and soul, which "The Throbbit" has in bucket-loads.

The cinematography by Bob Pusateri captures the mood of the film perfectly, taking viewers from the Shapely Shire's peaceful, rustic countryside to the terrifyingly comedic depths of the Mondor. Here it's definitely worth noting that the film scores extra points for its authentic and beautifully composed musical scores by William "Bill" Pusateri that evoke the spirit of fun-filled adventure while adding an extra layer of grandiosity to its miniature protagonist's epic journey.

Though the themes and story are rooted in adventurous comedy, "The Throbbit" also comprises moments of genuine heart and emotional resonance. Through its engaging narrative and memorable characters, the film manages to grapple with themes of self-discovery, friendship, and the courage to step out from one's comfort zone. It's through Bryce Cone's heartfelt portrayal of Friedo that audiences get to navigate the deeper and more profound layers underpinning the humor of the movie's narrative.

In summary, "The Throbbit" is a delightful indie comedy that uses humor, creativity, and a deep affection for the source material to craft a lively and entertaining parody. It filches laughter through its light-hearted narrative, well-timed humor, and lovable characters while also providing an unexpectedly profound excavate into the thought process of our own real-world anxieties and aspirations. Whether you're a fan of Tolkien's work or just looking for a whimsically joyous cinematic ride, "The Throbbit" is a film that thoroughly deserves to be experienced.