Humpday Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

Two straight bros try to make an ‘art film’ that’s really just them trying to avoid admitting they’re too scared to do something hilariously stupid.

🍿 Humpday: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Reunion and the Hump Fest Idea

The film begins with Ben, settled into married life with his wife Anna, unexpectedly encountering his old college friend Andrew. Andrew’s arrival disrupts Ben’s routine, leading them to a party where they learn about Hump Fest, an amateur porn film festival. During an alcohol and drug-fueled discussion, Ben and Andrew jokingly propose making a film of themselves, two self-proclaimed straight men, engaging in homosexual acts for the festival.

The Dare Takes Hold

Despite the initial jest, the dare takes on a life of its own as both Ben and Andrew find themselves hesitant to back down. Their machismo and need to prove something to each other, as well as themselves, fuels the situation. Ben struggles with the implications this has on his marriage, while Andrew sees it as an opportunity to create groundbreaking art. The film explores the delicate balance of their friendship and how the idea of this extreme act tests its boundaries.

Confronting the Reality

The film culminates in Ben and Andrew booking a motel room, setting up a camera, and attempting to fulfill their promise. The pressure mounts as they confront the absurdity and reality of what they’re about to do. It’s a moment filled with awkwardness and self-reflection as they analyze their motivations. Ultimately, they question whether the act is truly about art, friendship, or simply an expression of deeper, unspoken desires.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Ben (Mark Duplass): A settled married man who challenges his domesticated life by agreeing to an unusual art project with his old college friend.
• Andrew (Joshua Leonard): A free-spirited artist who pushes his friendship with Ben to unconventional boundaries through a provocative dare.
• Anna (Alycia Delmore): Ben’s supportive wife who navigates her husband’s exploration of boundaries and confronts her own desires.
• Monica (Lynn Shelton): A bisexual friend of Andrew’s whose presence adds to the complex dynamics of sexuality explored in the film.
• Lily (Trina Willard): Monica’s lesbian lover lives in the ‘Dionysus’ house, adding to the open and sexually positive atmosphere.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Andrew: “It’s not gay, it’s beyond gay.” – Andrew attempts to justify the act of having sex with Ben by claiming it surpasses traditional sexual categories and is purely artistic.
• Ben: “We’re gonna make a movie… about two straight dudes… bonin’.” – Ben articulates the central, somewhat absurd, premise of their art project to the camera.
• Andrew: “I just want to complete something.” – Andrew reveals his underlying motivation for the project, hinting at a deeper need for fulfillment and artistic validation.
• Anna: “As long as what you are doing isn’t bigger than what we have, I am cool with it.” – Anna gives her approval, with a condition that their marriage will be a priority.

💰Box Office

• Budget: N/A
• Domestic Gross: $407,377
• Worldwide Gross: $473,980

💥 Humpday Reviews

Personal Review

Okay, so ‘Humpday’ isn’t your typical laugh-out-loud comedy. It’s way more awkward and real than that. I remember watching it for the first time and feeling a mix of amusement and cringing. The scene where Ben tries to explain to his wife what they’re planning? I nearly died of secondhand embarrassment. But that’s what makes it so good! It’s messy, honest, and makes you think about your own friendships and boundaries. It’s one of those movies that sticks with you.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of independent films”
  • “Viewers interested in exploring complex relationships”
  • “Those who appreciate films that challenge social norms”
  • “People who enjoy mumblecore cinema”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Mature themes including discussions of sexuality”
  • “Drug and alcohol use”
  • “Strong language”

Professional Reviews

• IndieWire: “Shelton’s insightful direction and the actors’ natural performances elevate the film beyond a simple comedic premise. It’s a surprisingly tender and thought-provoking exploration of male friendship and sexuality.
• Variety: “Though the premise is attention-grabbing, ‘Humpday’ succeeds due to its genuine characters and nuanced exploration of male insecurity. It avoids easy laughs and offers a relatable portrayal of evolving friendships.
• The Hollywood Reporter: “A film that manages to elicit both laughter and introspection, Humpday avoids sensationalism by focusing on its characters’ emotional journeys, it is a thoughtful examination of modern relationships.

Audience Reactions

The film’s raw and realistic portrayal of male friendship resonated deeply with viewers.: Many viewers found the awkward humor to be relatable and insightful.

The film sparked interesting conversations about masculinity and sexuality.: Some praised the film for its courage in tackling a taboo subject with sensitivity.

Overall Consensus: A thought-provoking and often uncomfortable comedy that explores male friendship with honesty and nuance. It’s not for everyone, but its relatability has earned it a dedicated following.

Awards

1. Sundance Film Festival (Special Jury Prize)- 2009

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “The film was largely improvised, with the actors developing the dialogue and scenes based on a detailed outline created by director Lynn Shelton.”
• “Humpday was filmed in just 10 days, contributing to its raw and spontaneous feel.”
• “The film won the Special Jury Prize for Uniqueness of Vision at the 2009 Sundance Film Festival.”

🖥️ How to Watch Humpday?

As of October 2024, ‘Humpday’ is available for purchase or rental on various digital platforms including Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Vudu. Check local listings for streaming availability as it may vary by region. Consider checking your local library as well, as they may offer the film on DVD or through their streaming services.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Humpday, you might like these similar films:

• Chuck & Buck (2000): Explores the complexities and awkwardness of male relationships with unconventional boundaries, pushing comfort zones.
• The Overnight (2015): Features a similar premise of two couples navigating intimacy and boundaries during one bizarre night, examining modern relationships.
• Y Tu Mamá También (2001): Deals with themes of male bonding, sexuality, and self-discovery through an unconventional road trip.
• Shortbus (2006): Explores diverse sexual expression and relationships in a frank and open manner.

🛒 Humpday Related Products

• Humpday [Blu-ray]: Own the critically acclaimed indie comedy ‘Humpday’ on Blu-ray, experience the film’s nuanced performances and awkward humor in high definition.
• Mark Duplass Signed Humpday Movie Poster: This is a rare piece for collectors, a poster signed by the main actor Mark Duplass. Add a touch of cinema history to your collection, this is a great investment for fans of independent cinema.
• Humpday: Themed Coasters: Funny merchandise that only true fans get. Set of 4 cork coasters to remember the funny and thought-provoking moments of the movie, perfect for home decor.

🎧 Soundtrack

Humpday features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Dionysus” – performed by Lori Goldston, Jane Hall, Julian Martlew, Janos Mathiesen, Clyde Peterson and Eric Richards
• “Can’t Find My Way Home” – performed by Blind Faith

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

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