Buddy’s Song

A teenage guitarist with big dreams who balances school with his burgeoning music career. He forms bands, records demos, and navigates friendships and romance as he grows into a musician nobody can ignore. His optimism and stubbornness drive his pursuit of a stage and a future in music.

Buddy’s charismatic father, a former bookmaker who becomes a self-styled manager and filmmaker for the band. His appetite for promotion leads him from the car park to a video studio, but his impulsive choices bring conflict and danger to the family. He faces consequences, loyalty tests, and moments of vulnerability.

A wealthy, connected figure who runs a breakers yard and hires Terry at the yard. He becomes a catalyst in the plot, offering money and influence while the line between help and exploitation blurs. He is present during moments of danger and is involved in the shifting power dynamics surrounding Buddy’s world.

Buddy’s mother, a steadying presence who resists accepting a bribe and tries to keep her family together. Her relationships and decisions reflect the strain between duty and desire, and she ultimately navigates a rocky path between independence and financial security.

Self-styled manager who helps Buddy’s band get gigs and navigate the music business. He champions the band, negotiates with label sources, and pushes for opportunities, sometimes emphasizing business over emotion. His ambitions highlight the pressures of turning a local group into a commercial success.

A love interest for Buddy who is connected to the band’s world and Julius’s circle. She contributes to the band’s social dynamic and offers a potential route to publicity and personal motivation for Buddy.

Carol’s boss and a figure from her workplace who represents the adult, corporate side of life. His involvement in Carol’s world adds tension and choices around career and personal life.

The music video editor who helps Terry translate the band’s sound into visual form. His craft and collaboration with Terry help push the band toward a broader audience, illustrating the behind-the-scenes work that supports a rising act.

A young woman Terry meets at a party who becomes part of the film’s romantic subplot. Dawn’s presence contributes to the tension and choices surrounding Terry and the band.

Buddy’s girlfriend, whose relationship is tested by jealousy and complicated ties. Her arc intersects with the band’s momentum and Buddy’s personal life.

Band member who becomes entangled in the relationships around Buddy, including tensions involving Elaine. He is part of the internal dynamics that shape the group’s cohesion.

A Mammoth Records A&R executive who scouts the band and ultimately suggests major changes, including altering the band name and excluding Terry from decision-making. He represents the practical gatekeeper of the music industry.