Watch Gutterbug

Gutterbug is a powerful independent drama film from 2019 that follows the life of a young man named Bug who is released from prison after serving time for a drug charge. Bug is reunited with his childhood friend Jaden, who is freshly homeless and struggling to stay sober. The two decide to travel across the country in search of Bug's estranged mother, with the dream of starting afresh.

As they travel, they encounter a diverse cast of characters and undergo a series of trials and tribulations that illuminates their struggles with addiction, poverty, and rejection from society. The themes of loyalty, friendship, and hope keep the film grounded amidst the gritty realities of urban poverty.

Andrew Yackel and Justin Pietropaolo offer deeply authentic performances as Bug and Jaden, respectfully. Hannah Mosqueda shines in a smaller role as a woman caught in the cycle of addiction, further highlighting the raw and unflinching performances of the cast.

The film was directed by Andrew Gibson, who enhances the film's narrative with his unique style, utilizing striking visuals and a cinematic approach to storytelling. The use of flashbacks and gritty imagery adds depth to the characters and their story.

The film's soundtrack features a mix of heavy metal, rock, and punk songs that alternately invoke the film's intense emotions and subtle nuances. The music adds a gritty edge that highlights the harsh realities of the characters' circumstances.

Even though Gutterbug is a tale of desperation and struggle, the film ultimately leaves the viewer with a message of hope. Despite the many obstacles they face, Bug and Jaden maintain a bond of friendship that helps them overcome their struggles. The film's cathartic ending is both satisfying and uplifting, which ultimately makes the journey worth the trip.

In summary, Gutterbug is a powerful, emotional, and highly authentic story of friendship, addiction, and hope. It will move even the most hardened viewer with its vivid portrayal of the struggles faced by those living on the margins of society. The film is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, and a deeply personal story for anyone who has ever struggled to overcome the odds.

Gutterbug is a 2020 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 41 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.2.