Calf Rope

Calf Rope was an outstanding short film directed by Bradley Hawkins. I was moved by the performances by Gorman Ruggiero as "Grandad" and Lukas Barnett as "Brandon". It was nice to see a family friendly film with such a nice theme. I thought that the storyline would make for a wonderful full-length feature film. Bravo to the entire cast and crew!

Central to the plot is the relationship between a young boy (Brandon) and his Grandad Mac. The two bond over the course of a summer as the youngster grows more and more curious about Mac's rodeo past. How could this guy who is known for relentless tickling and occasional troublemaking (especially with Mom and Grandma) be a real-life cowboy? Yes, Calf Rope is essentially a coming of age story; unabashedly heavy on nostalgia. The beauty of the short is how well it is executed by Bradley and Sarah Hawkins, the father/daughter co-founders of their own film production company, Dadley Productions. They have gathered some impressive talent. Lyndsey Hinkle's 1960s production design is impeccable. Director of Photography, Sofia Monzerratt, is equally adept at capturing action-packed rodeo sequences, as she is tender moments between generations. Ms. Monzerratt's camerawork, Bradley Hawkins' direction and Ryan Geesaman's editing of the calf roping and cattle auction scenes, in particular, are exceptional. The casting is spot on. The connection between Lukas Barnett as Brandon and Gorman Ruggiero as Mac is clear the very first time he sets those adoring eyes upon his Grandad. The screenplay (by Jake Stetler and Bradley Hawkins) is equally funny and poignant.

Ultimately it doesn't matter if you are a cowboy at heart, Calf Rope is a powerful tale about legacy, love, and what ties people together.

I never expected to relate to this film, but when I discovered the similarities between the main character, Grandpa, and my own grandfather, the tears started flowing. One scene after another brought back subtle memories, which have been locked away in my past. Normally, when a movie brings me to reach for a tissue box, I quickly exit the room. But, this one really caught my attention. I don't have a lot of memories of my grandfather growing up, because he spent much of his time at a cattle farm, in Lancaster County. When I'd spend the night with my grandparents, he'd be asleep on the recliner, and Grandma and I would gingerly walk past his chair, trying not to kick over the can of spit-out tobacco (my grandmother hated that can). I don't believe he ever smoked, but he always had that smelly stuff in his mouth. My fonder memories are from a few visits to the cattle auctions. I remembered the taste of sweet, thick, chocolatey milk, from little cartons, which grandma would give me quarters to purchase. The auctions were packed, nearly elbow to elbow, so a cold, sweet beverage was welcomed in a hot, smelly steer barn. I also remembered the first time I heard an Auctioneer speak...or, yell...or, ramble on, and on, and ON. I was amazed, and for a moment, wandered what it would be like to grow-up to be an Auctioneer? My grandpa loved his cattle, horses, and farm life. He died in that building, on my 16th birthday...and my grandma, being the patient, loving person she was, even apologized to me for ruing my 'sweet 16' special day. All I wanted was my grandfather back...for her, most of all. He had slipped and fell on the cement, by the loading dock, I believe, causing a heart attack (or, the other way around). He died quickly, and I guess if he had chosen a place to be buried, it would've been that farm. Well, the tears are flowing again, but not in a bad way...in a way which allows me to pay tribute to a beloved man who was dedicated to this way of life...a life which made him both happy and proud. Thank you, Dadley Production, for bringing back those lost memories...ones I will hold dearly to my heart, and cherish forever. Bravo!!! I need to see more, please!

Brad's story reminds me of growing up in central PA in the 70's and my relationship with my grandfather. He wasn't a cowboy but he carried himself like the cowboys that I watched on Saturday afternoon TV.

What a beautiful film. For 30 minutes, I was captivated and charmed by this little heartwarming story. The period-accurate sets, cinematography and visuals, along with the wonderful cast made falling into this story feel very natural.

The most unexpected aspect of Calf Rope was the near immediate connection I felt with the characters. The affection between Brandon and his grandfather, and Brandon's belief that his grandfather is the most wonderful, powerful person in the world reminded me of what it was like as a small boy to see my grandfather as an unstoppable hero, the most loving and compassionate person in the world.

Brandon has a vague understanding of the flaws of his grandfather, but his opinion is unchanged.

The supporting cast was terrific, especially as the story came to a close. The emotions conveyed drew me into the final moments. I did not expect to have tears in my own eyes in such a short span of time.

The story was told in such a way that I never felt it was too slow, nor rushed; In fact, I was unaware of the passage of time as I watched. The content is wholesome, imbued with powerful a powerful message and evocative imagery. I would certainly recommend for families to enjoy together.

Lastly, the score was wonderful. Sounds of joy, imagination, and excitement, providing the audience with same triumphant emotions Brandon experienced as he watched his grandfather be the amazing, magical man he was. The composer choose the best instrumentation for the film, taking us back in time with the story. The score provided the proper context for the scenes, becoming its own character at the appropriate moments, while being understated and subdued in the most crucial heartfelt moments of the story, providing the heartbeat of Calf Rope.

Lovely film.