Cast and Crew of Buddy Games

Buddy Games

"Buddy Games" is a comedy film centered around the reunion of six lifelong friends who have been estranged for five years. Typical elements of the comedy genre are prominent: humorous situations, exaggerated physical and mental challenges, and lighthearted rivalry. What sets "Buddy Games" apart from other comedy titles is its blend of friendship dynamics with competitive games, focusing on the absurd and often over-the-top contests that emphasize camaraderie, rivalry, and nostalgia. The presence of characters like Bob 'The Bobfather' Schmidt, played by Josh Duhamel, and Sheldon 'Shelly' Baldinger, portrayed by Dan Bakkedahl, adds a spirited and relatable ensemble feeling, enhancing the comedic interaction and emotional undertones beyond simple humor. Ultimately, the film combines raunchy humor, friendship themes, and game-show style antics, making it a unique entry within the comedy genre.

Main Cast of Buddy Games

Josh Duhamel as Bob 'The Bobfather' Schmidt

Josh Duhamel

Bob 'The Bobfather' Schmidt
Josh Duhamel stars in the comedy film 'Buddy Games,' bringing his characteristic charm and comedic timing to the role of a supportive yet competitive friend in an outrageous series of challenges among old friends. His performance was well-received for balancing humor with genuine emotion, making his character relatable and memorable amidst the wild antics. What made Duhamel's portrayal unique was his ability to seamlessly blend physical comedy with heartfelt moments, elevating the ensemble dynamic. A lesser-known behind-the-scenes fact is that Duhamel improvised many of his lines during the competition scenes, which added an authentic and spontaneous feel to the group's interactions, often causing genuine laughter among the cast.
Dan Bakkedahl as Sheldon 'Shelly' Baldinger

Dan Bakkedahl

Sheldon 'Shelly' Baldinger
Dan Bakkedahl played a memorable role in the movie 'Buddy Games,' bringing his signature comedic timing and sharp wit to the ensemble cast. His performance was well-received by audiences who appreciated the authentic charm and energy he brought to the film, adding a unique layer of humor that balanced the movie's playful yet competitive spirit. What made his portrayal stand out was his ability to blend subtle sarcasm with genuine warmth, making his character both relatable and entertaining. A lesser-known behind-the-scenes fact is that Bakkedahl improvised several of his scenes, which were so well-executed that the director decided to keep them in the final cut, showcasing his natural comedic instincts and contributing significantly to the film's dynamic.
Nick Swardson as Dixon Bender

Nick Swardson

Dixon Bender
Nick Swardson plays a pivotal role in the 2019 comedy 'Buddy Games,' where his performance was praised for its comedic timing and ability to bring an infectious energy to the ensemble cast. What made his portrayal unique was his knack for blending absurd humor with genuine emotional moments, adding depth to the otherwise raunchy and playful narrative. A lesser-known fact about Nick's involvement is that he improvised many of his scenes on the spot, including a memorable sequence involving a bizarre game challenge, which the director decided to keep in the final cut due to its spontaneous hilarity.
Dax Shepard as John Durfy

Dax Shepard

John Durfy
In the movie 'Buddy Games,' Dax Shepard plays the character Colt, a rugged and competitive member of a group of friends who reunite to participate in a series of over-the-top challenges designed to test their friendship and resolve. This role aligns well with Shepard's established on-screen persona of affable, witty, and often slightly rebellious characters, blending humor with a touch of heart. What makes this performance stand out is Shepard's deeper immersion into the physical comedy and ensemble dynamics, showcasing his versatility beyond the more polished or leading-man roles seen in his earlier and better-known work such as 'Parenthood' or 'CHiPs.' Additionally, as a co-writer and director of 'Buddy Games,' Shepard's creative control contributed to a more personal and authentic portrayal, making this project a unique and significant part of his career trajectory.

Crew of Buddy Games

Full backstage crew list →