Watch Pollywogs

Pollywogs is a 2013 independent drama-comedy film directed by Tyler Rubenfeld and starring Karl Jacob, Kate Lyn Sheil, and Jennifer Prediger. The movie follows the story of two estranged childhood friends who reunite after several years and decide to embark on a road trip through the American Midwest. The film begins with Dylan (Karl Jacob) arriving at his childhood friend Eddie's (Mark Reeb) house in Minneapolis. Dylan has been living in New York City for the past few years, where he works as a music journalist, and he has returned to his hometown to attend his mother's funeral. Eddie lives in his mother's basement and spends his days smoking weed, playing video games, and working as a pizza delivery boy.

Despite their initial awkwardness, Dylan and Eddie quickly reconnect and decide to hit the road in Eddie's van. Their plan is to drive to Eddie's sister's wedding in Wisconsin but along the way, they get sidetracked by various adventures and encounters, including a visit to Dylan's childhood home and a run-in with a local farmer.

As they journey through the Midwest, the two friends confront the conflicts and disappointments of their respective lives. Dylan is struggling with his relationship with his girlfriend, Laura (Kate Lyn Sheil), who he left behind in New York, while Eddie is dealing with his own issues, including his fear of commitment and his feelings of inadequacy in comparison to his successful sister.

The road trip serves as a catalyst for their personal growth, as they discuss their fears, regrets, and hopes for the future. They also encounter a cast of quirky characters, including a group of hippie activists and a pair of eccentric sisters who invite them to a surreal tea party.

Throughout the movie, the audience is immersed in a witty dialogue that captures the essence of the quirky and often absurd Midwestern culture. The cinematography is beautiful, as the film showcases the vast landscapes and roadside attractions that are emblematic of the region.

The performances of the cast are superb, and the chemistry between Karl Jacob and Mark Reeb's characters is palpable. Jacob gives an honest and nuanced performance as Dylan, capturing his vulnerability and sense of wanderlust. Reeb shines as the slacker-turned-adventurer Eddie, whose charm and humor mask his inner insecurity and self-doubt. Kate Lyn Sheil and Jennifer Prediger are equally impressive in their supporting roles.

At its core, Pollywogs is a film about friendship, self-discovery, and the search for meaning in life. It offers a poignant and relatable portrayal of the struggles and joys of adulthood, as seen through the eyes of two men who are trying to find their place in the world.

In conclusion, Pollywogs is a charming and heartfelt movie that is well worth watching. It is a testament to the power of independent cinema, and it showcases the talent and creativity of its cast and crew. With its humor, heart, and authentic storytelling, this is a film that will appeal to anyone who has experienced the struggles and joys of growing up.