Diggers 2007

Drama

Comedy

Box Office

$67K

Runtime

96 min

Directed by

Katherine Dieckmann

Made by

Magnolia Pictures

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Plot Summary

Read the complete plot summary and ending explained for Diggers (2007). From turning points to emotional moments, uncover what really happened and why it matters.

Hunt, portrayed by Paul Rudd, along with his friends Lozo, played by Ken Marino, Jack, and Cons, are working-class clam diggers navigating life on Long Island in the summer of 1976. Their lives are marked by the encroachment of a corporate clamming organization that threatens their way of life, and each character has developed unique sidelines to escape their tedious reality. Hunt, the main character, is an aspiring photographer; Lozo is primarily focused on expanding his family with his wife, while Cons finds himself involved in illicit drug dealings, and Jack cannot resist the charms of women.

Their mundane existence faces a jarring upheaval following the death of Hunt’s father, a man who dedicated himself tirelessly to the bay. As the community gathers for the funeral, Hunt finds himself drawn to Zoey, a wealthy city girl played by Lauren Ambrose, who has decided to experience life outside her affluent bubble. Meanwhile, Hunt’s sister, Gina, played by Maura Tierney, develops a romantic connection with Jack, complicating their friendship.

After an altercation that lands the group in jail, they realize it’s time for a change. In their own unique ways, each friend begins to carve out a new path. They honor Hunt’s father by holding a fitting memorial for his boat, showcase their growth by adapting to life’s challenges, and tackle the future head-on. Lozo commits to finding stable employment, while Hunt resolves to pursue his passion for photography more seriously. This leads him to pack up and journey west in pursuit of both Zoey and his aspiration of becoming a professional photographer, symbolizing not just a physical relocation but a daring leap into a new life.

Timeline

Follow the complete movie timeline of Diggers (2007) with every major event in chronological order. Great for understanding complex plots and story progression.

Life as Clam Diggers

In 1976, Hunt, Lozo, Jack, and Cons are living a mundane life as clam diggers on Long Island. They struggle against a corporate clamming outfit that threatens to take away their livelihood, forcing them to confront the challenge of maintaining their way of life.

1976 Long Island

Hunt's Father Passes Away

Hunt's father, who dedicated his life to the hard work of clamming, suddenly dies. This event serves as a wake-up call for Hunt, making him reflect on his own life choices and the legacy of hard work left behind.

Hunt's Funeral

Following the loss of his father, Hunt attends the funeral, grieving not only for his father's death but also for the life they shared on the bay. The event becomes a pivotal moment for Hunt, as it catalyzes change in his relationships and aspirations.

Meeting Zoey

After the funeral, Hunt encounters Zoey, a wealthy girl from the city who is spending time in Long Island. Their connection sparks new feelings in Hunt, as he begins to explore a world that contrasts sharply with his current life.

Gina's Relationship with Jack

Amidst the turmoil, Hunt's sister, Gina, starts dating Jack, one of Hunt's friends known for his relentless womanizing. This complicates the dynamics within their group, adding layers of tension and camaraderie among them.

Night in Jail

After a drunken bar fight, the group ends up spending a night in jail, which serves as a turning point for all of them. This experience forces the friends to reevaluate their lives and realize the need for change.

Deciding to Move On

Post jail-time, the friends gather to make a collective decision to move on from their stagnant lives. They acknowledge that if they want a future, they must take risks and embrace new opportunities.

Funeral for Hunt's Father's Boat

As a tribute to his father's life, the group gives a proper farewell to his boat. This ceremony symbolizes the end of one chapter and reflects their respect for the hardworking lifestyle that defined Hunt's family.

Lozo Gets a Job

Lozo decides to leave behind clam digging and seeks a 'real' job, showcasing a significant shift in his priorities. This newfound ambition indicates a desire for a more stable future for himself and his family.

Hunt's Journey West

Driven by his developing feelings for Zoey and a yearning to pursue his passion, Hunt packs up and heads west. This journey symbolizes his pursuit of dreams and the search for a new identity outside of clam digging.

West

Chasing Dreams of Photography

As he travels west, Hunt is determined to pursue his dream of becoming a professional photographer. This step marks a moment of bravery for Hunt, as he leaves behind his old life in search of new opportunities.

Reflecting on Change

The transformation of Hunt and his friends reflects the challenges of growing up and facing reality. Each of them has shown a newfound willingness to leave their old lives behind and chase after their own futures.

The Impact of Loss

The death of Hunt's father serves as a powerful catalyst for change. It questions their past actions and drives the men to reexamine their lives, leading them to seek out new possibilities.

New Beginnings

As they all part ways, the friends are left with lessons learned and memories made. They step into the unknown with hopes of a brighter future, united by their past and eager for what lies ahead.

Characters

Explore all characters from Diggers (2007). Get detailed profiles with their roles, arcs, and key relationships explained.

Hunt (Paul Rudd)

Hunt is a clam digger grappling with the recent loss of his father, which profoundly impacts his path forward. An aspiring photographer, he embodies a restless spirit and a yearning for a different life. His relationships, particularly with Zoey, push him to explore his ambitions outside of his small-town existence.

📷 Aspiring Photographer 🥀 Loss 🌊 Clam Digger

Lozo (Ken Marino)

Lozo is characterized by his lighthearted nature and focus on family, particularly with his wife. His journey reflects the need for personal growth as he contemplates a more traditional career. The playful side of his demeanor contrasts sharply with the struggles the group faces, adding depth to his character.

🏡 Family-Oriented 🤔 Self-Reflection 🦪 Clam Digger

Gina (Maura Tierney)

Gina is Hunt's sister, who becomes entangled with Jack as the group's dynamics shift after their father's death. She represents the strong familial bonds that persist in the face of adversity. Her character adds complexity to the themes of love and loyalty amidst uncertainty.

👩‍👧 Family ❤️ Love Interest 💔 Loss

Setting

Learn where and when Diggers (2007) takes place. Explore the film’s settings, era, and how they shape the narrative.

Time period

1976

The year 1976 falls within a transformative period in American history, marked by the tumult of social changes and a growing awareness of corporate exploitation. This era also saw a mix of counterculture and economic challenges that affected working-class individuals. The struggles of the characters reflect the broader issues facing many Americans during this time.

Location

Long Island

Long Island is known for its picturesque beaches and rich history in clam digging. The bay, crucial for the livelihoods of local clam diggers, serves as both a backdrop and a character in their story. In the 1970s, it faced threats from corporate interests, which challenged the traditional way of life of the communities relying on its resources.

🏖️ Beach 🦪 Clamming

Themes

Discover the main themes in Diggers (2007). Analyze the deeper meanings, emotional layers, and social commentary behind the film.

🌊

Struggle

The theme of struggle is pervasive throughout the film as the characters confront the loss of their livelihood and fight against corporate encroachment. Each character navigates his own personal and professional challenges, from grappling with grief to chasing new dreams. Their journey illustrates the conflict between aspirations and harsh realities.

💔

Loss

Loss plays a central role in the narrative, particularly through Hunt's experience after the death of his father. This event catalyzes a series of changes in the group, pushing them to reevaluate their lives and relationships. It highlights the fragility of their existence and the impact of familial bonds.

📸

Dreams

The pursuit of dreams is vividly portrayed in Hunt's journey to become a professional photographer. His interactions with Zoey inspire him to seek a life beyond clamming and the limitations of his environment. This theme underscores the desire for growth and the courage to chase one's passions even in the face of uncertainty.

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