Watch Ashley's Ashes

Ashley's Ashes is a heartwarming indie comedy-drama that tells the story of a family struggling with the passing of their beloved wife and mother, Ashley. The film is set in a small town in California and follows the lives of Ashley's family, as they come to terms with their loss and try to move forward. At the center of the film is Ashley's husband, Jack (Googy Gress). Jack is a quirky and likable everyman, who is struggling to maintain a stable life for himself and his two children after the loss of his wife. Jack's caring nature and perpetual optimism are put to the test when his sister-in-law, Jina (Eileen Galindo), arrives to help with the funeral arrangements and ends up staying much longer than expected.

Galindo's portrayal of Jina is one of the highlights of the film. She brings a vibrant energy to the character, injecting some much-needed humor into the story. Jina's presence is also a catalyst for much of the conflict in the film. Her personality clashes with Jack's and her overbearing nature causes tension within the family.

Gigi Rice plays the role of Dana, Jack's friend and love interest. Dana is a former Hollywood actress, turned local real estate agent, who becomes romantically involved with Jack. Rice's performance is understated but effective, providing a sense of stability and hope for Jack and his family.

The film also explores the relationships between Ashley's children, Alex (Ryan Slater) and Alice (Michelle Rodriguez). Alex is a rebellious teenager, who feels neglected by his father and struggles with the loss of his mother. Rodriguez's portrayal of Alice is particularly moving, as she takes on the responsibility of caring for her younger brother and tries to fill the void left by her mother's passing.

The film's director and co-writer, Christopher Hutson, brings a deft touch to the material, balancing comedy and drama in equal measure. Hutson's direction is particularly effective in the film's quieter, more introspective moments, which allow the audience to feel the weight of the family's grief.

One of the film's standout scenes takes place at the funeral service for Ashley. Jack, Alex, and Alice all deliver heartfelt eulogies, each providing a unique perspective on the life and legacy of their loved one. The scene is a testament to the strength of the film's writing and acting, as it draws the audience into the emotional core of the story.

Overall, Ashley's Ashes is an excellent indie film that captures the complexities of grief and loss with authenticity and humor. The film's strong performances, engaging script, and beautiful cinematography make it a must-see for anyone who has experienced the pain of losing a loved one.

Ashley's Ashes is a 2013 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 41 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.6.