Mayberry Man

Movie Trailer

Release Date
September 24, 2021

Genre
Comedy, Family

Cast & Crew

• Brett Varvel as Chris Stone
• Allan Newsome as Floyd Lawson
• Rick Roberts as Jesse
• Karen Knotts as Herself
• Jakob Winter as Clint
• Ashley Elaine as Kate

Director
Stark Howell

Other Movies Director is Known For

• The Mayberry Effect (2021) – Documentary
• The Man in the Chair (2011)

Producer
Greg Schell, Cort Howell, Stark Howell

Writer
Stark Howell, Cort Howell

Budget
$500,000 (estimated)

Production Company
Stark Howell Films, Dry Grass Productions

Running Time
98 minutes

Languages
English

Maturity Rating
G

Content Advisory

• Family-friendly content
• Light humor
• Positive themes

Movie Story
“Mayberry Man” is a heartwarming comedy that pays tribute to the classic TV show The Andy Griffith Show and the enduring charm of its fictional town, Mayberry. The film follows Chris Stone (Brett Varvel), a conceited, fast-living movie star who finds himself in trouble with the law. As part of his community service, Chris is sent to attend a Mayberry Festival, where fans of The Andy Griffith Show gather to celebrate the simple, wholesome values of the beloved TV series.

Initially, Chris is cynical and dismissive of the festival and its attendees, seeing them as out-of-touch fanatics. However, as he spends more time in the company of the Mayberry fans—many of whom dress up as characters from the show—he begins to see the world differently. The film takes Chris on a journey of self-discovery as he learns about the importance of kindness, humility, and the joys of a simpler life.

Through his interactions with the festival’s participants, including a down-to-earth mechanic named Jesse (Rick Roberts) and a charming young woman named Kate (Ashley Elaine), Chris starts to reconnect with his roots and question his own values. The film is filled with references to The Andy Griffith Show, making it a treat for fans of the original series, while also offering a universal message about the power of community and the importance of staying grounded.

Special Effects
“Mayberry Man” is a character-driven film that relies on its story, humor, and the charm of its cast rather than on special effects. The focus is on capturing the nostalgic feel of Mayberry and the heartfelt interactions between characters.

Box Office Performance
“Mayberry Man” had a limited theatrical release and was primarily aimed at fans of The Andy Griffith Show and family audiences. The film found success within its niche, drawing in viewers with its wholesome content and positive message.

Filming Locations

• Danville, Indiana, USA
• Mount Airy, North Carolina, USA (the real-life inspiration for Mayberry)

Notable Quotes

• “Mayberry isn’t just a place. It’s a way of life.” – Jesse
• “Sometimes, the best things in life are the simplest.” – Chris Stone

Behind-the-Scenes
“Mayberry Man” was created by Stark Howell and Cort Howell, who are the sons of The Andy Griffith Show writer and director, Hoke Howell. The film is a passion project that celebrates the legacy of the show and its impact on generations of viewers. Many of the actors who portray the festival attendees are real-life fans and impersonators of characters from the original series.

Awards

• N/A

Final Verdict
“Mayberry Man” is a charming, feel-good movie that captures the spirit of The Andy Griffith Show while delivering a timeless message about the value of community and simple pleasures. It’s a delightful watch for fans of the original series and anyone who appreciates wholesome entertainment. With its warm humor and heartwarming story, “Mayberry Man” offers a refreshing break from the complexities of modern life.

IMDb Rating
6.5/10