"Wealth, Travel, Fame…I can take you to movies that have all of that." -Me and Orson Welles
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“Southside with You” takes audiences on Michelle and Barak Obama’s day long first date. I got a chance to sit down with the stars, Tika Sumpter and Parker Sawyers, to discuss their charming, new film. Topics range from first date prepping to hilarious and random impressions!
Interview: Tika Sumpter & Parker Sawyers talk “Southside with You”
Want the #GetLostGetFound tour to come to your state? Then vote for your state and Nat Wolff, Cara Delevingne and John Green might visit a city near you! http://papertownsmovie.com/tour
Listen and Connect
Nobody’s Perfect
Different Points of View
Do you Believe in Soul Mates?
Life is Too Short
It’s no surprise that big studio production companies are quickly grabbing hold of the rights to as many young adult novels as they can. The fan base is already there. Give them a “best-seller” and a good looking lead, and you may just have the next Twilight or The Fault in Our Stars.
Tweens are thirsting for romance that they can live vicariously through, and Chloe Grace Moretz’s latest drama will quench every young girl’s desire.
If I Stay is an adaptation of Gayle Forman’s 2009 best-seller. The film centers on Mia Hall (Moretz), a straight-lace, gifted cellist who lives in Oregon with her ultra-hip parents, Kat (Mireille Enos) and Denny (Joshua Leonard), and her little brother, Teddy (Jakob Davies). One day while Mia is practicing in school, Adam (Jamie Blackley), an up-and-coming rock star, passes by and it’s love at first listen. Be warned now, if you’re in theater with any teenage girls, Adam will cause swooning and sighing. The two go through a jagged relationship, proving that classical and rock doesn’t make for a smooth mix.
Priorities shift for Mia when she is invited to audition for Julliard but, her music and Adam become the least of her worries after a horrific car accident has caused her to fall into a coma. Anxious to know the fate of the rest of her family, Mia has an out of body experience. Her spirit roams the hospital halls and she eavesdrops on her loved ones as they try to cope and pray for her to make it through surgery. As her future begins to be uncertain, Mia is faced with a choice. She must decide if the life she’s waking up to is one worth living.
Call me a cheesy romantic, but I enjoyed this film. I am fully aware the one liners, “I see you,” and “why me?” will have plenty of people rolling their eyes. But there are certain qualities in a teenybopper romance that can always salvage the movie. The key element is your lead. Chloe Grace Moretz is a thriving young talent, and since I first saw her in 500 Days of Summer, she has only flourished in her career. Whether it’s a success like Kick-Ass or a flop like Carrie, Moretz masterfully performs in all of her projects.
Of course, what’s love without believability? Moretz and Blackley’s chemistry is hardly that of comparison to Hazel and Gus (The Fault in Our Stars), but it translates well here. Mia and Adam’s relationship isn’t forced, we get to watch them grow as a couple and care for their story, a missing quality from many recent love stories.
There is more to If I Stay than just the romance. The film also touches on how some people in your life don’t necessarily need to be blood related to be your family. If I Stay may pull at your heartstrings and shed some tears, but think of this film as more of a “doesn’t-hurt-to-see” versus a “must-see.”
Rating: 3/5
Michael Douglas and Diane Keaton team up for the first time in a comedy that will warm your heart, but most likely escape your mind once you leave the theater.
Oren Little ( Douglas ) is a successful, self-centered realtor living in a somewhat secluded, peaceful home. But, his life is quickly turned upside down when his estranged adult son shows up out of the blue and drops a bomb on him. He is about go to jail for nine-months and needs his dad to look after his almost 10 year-old daughter, Sarah (Sterling Jerins). At first Oren is adamant that he won’t be looking after the granddaughter he never knew existed. Luckily, Leah (Diane Keaton), the kind, self-less next door neighbor steps in assuring Oren’s son that she will be in good hands. And so, begins a story you can probably already predict.
Love is not just felt for young Sarah; it is also spreading its way to an unlikely couple. Leah and Oren share a sweet romance, but not an exciting one. Michael Douglas definitely still has “it.” Charm, wit, class, he exudes all of it when he is on screen. Diane Keaton on the other hand offers some shrilling and quite annoying cries throughout the film. The cries aren’t as bad as they were in Something’s Gotta Give, but my gosh. Whoever thought the constant whiney sobs of woman are hilarious is seriously mistaken. Keaton plays a very likeable character and caring one at that, but somehow her moments of comedy failed to produce any real laughs. Douglas and Keaton have great chemistry as friends, but as lovers their relationship felt forced.
Though the romantic aspect of And So It Goes was weak, the family story-line was surprisingly enjoyable. Seeing Oren with his granddaughter or even his limited moments with his son can’t help but make you smile.
And So It Goes hardly stands out among the films currently in theaters, and I can’t even say it should be in your top choices to see this summer. However, if you are in the mood for a light, uplifting, and simple comedy, then I do recommend you sit back and enjoy this endearing story.
Rating: 2.5/5
And So It Goes hits theaters July 25.
And So It Goes Official Trailer HD
Rating: 4.5/5
It’s as true as it can be. Disney fans will be in bliss as they watch one of the most beloved classics come alive on stage. Beauty & the Beast performed as a Broadway musical may seem like a tough feat with the surely difficult theatrics that the play would need to pull off. Fortunately, AT&T Performing Arts Center’s Winspear Opera House put on a magical show that the whole family will enjoy.
Beauty & the Beast is one of the most beautiful tales of how the beauty within prevails over any outer appearance. When Belle (Hilary Maiberger) sacrifices her own freedom in exchange for her fathers, she is forced to stay in an enchanted castle that is run by an angry and bitter Beast (Darick Pead). To ease her distress, Belle is comforted by the other unusual members of the house who happen to be a candle stick, a clock, and tea pot. Little does she know that the fate of everyone around her, including the Beast, hinge on whether or not she can fall in love with someone who looks like a monster.
Following the original Disney animated feature, this musical still contains the same script and music, but has added a few originals songs that go along with the familiar score. The new songs blended in perfectly with the story, but they were no match for the classic soundtrack we all love to sing. When “Gaston” is performed by the tavern patrons and the well-played arrogant Gaston (Tim Rogan), you might think “it doesn’t get any better than this.” The musical number is humorous, creatively choreographed, and thoroughly entertaining. But you have spoken too soon, because you have yet to witness the luminous, breath taking, work of art that is “Be Our Guest.” The song begins with the voice of Hassan Nazari-Robati, who gives a stand out performance as the hilarious talking candle stick, Lumiere. Hassan, along with the eloquent Kristin Stewart (not Twilight) who plays Mrs. Potts, lead the rest of the enchanted objects in a colorful dance that is enhanced by the vibrant set design (Stanley A. Meyer) and well produced lighting (Natasha Katz). I am delighted to know that I will surely dream about dancing plates and silverware tonight.
They could not have cast a more perfect Belle. Hilary Maiberger is no stranger to playing a Disney princess. Having played Cinderella and Jasmine in previous musicals, she handled the role of Belle with such ease, and not once did she over act her character. Her vocals are incredible, best out of the entire cast. When she sings, goose bumps appear, as well as a smile on your face. Her leading man played by Darick Pead did a fantastic job as the intimidating, yet sometimes juvenile Beast.
Beauty & the Beast the musical throws in some extra comedic moments that will only add to your laughter, and music that you will want to add to your play list. I could go on and on about this lively performance, but I’d rather you allow yourself to be a guest and take pleasure in this remarkable “tale as old as time.”
Rating: 4/5
Oh, young love. It is amazing how strongly you can feel for the first guy you fall for. However, this film isn’t a sappier and dramatic copy of Endless Love. Instead, It Felt Like Love is a realistic portrayal of a young teen desperate to experience the same sexual activities as her best friend, as she forcefully pursues an unreciprocated relationship with a guy who will “sleep with anyone.”
In Eliza Hittman’s debut feature, we follow Lila (Gina Piersanti), a fourteen year old, spending a hot summer in a blue-collar Brooklyn neighborhood away from the city. Often tagging along with her best friend Chiara (Giovanna Salimeni) and her boyfriend, Lila is the awkward and quiet third wheel. But as she is riding in the back seat of her friend’s love life, she is taking detailed mental notes of what she feels she should be experiencing with a guy as well. Cue the first semi attractive boy that acknowledges her! Yup, meet Sammy, the “bad boy” with a reputation to sleep around. Seems like the perfect guy for Lila to fixate on for the rest of summer. Completely delusional in her endless attempt to pursue Sammy, Lila puts herself at risk in multiple situations.
As a girl who has never been in love, I painfully related to this film; to an extent of course. Seeing your friends “in love” and doing what couples do can have a strong impact on you. It makes you want what they have, feel what they feel, and experience what they are experiencing. In your teens, this mostly stems from wanting to be at the same level as your friends. Now, I was nowhere near as foolish or extreme as Lila, but the desperation that Hittman wrote in her character is something that almost all girls can understand. We have all had that crush (guys have them too) we liked so much that we begin to imagine what a relationship would be like with that person, specifically thinking of certain scenarios with them. Usually, we all keep these delusional thoughts to ourselves. However, Lila decides the best tactic is to make those fantasies a reality, even if she has to force the hangouts and manipulate the truth. And I have to give props to Lila, because this girl can lie. She lies really well! I couldn’t say half of the lies she told with a straight face.
The fresh cast led by Gina Piersanti is naturally effortless in their roles playing genuine teens dealing with sex, urges, and curiosity. Characters like these have a tendency to be overacted. It was nice to see Hittman’s powerful script didn’t get ruined by heavily dramatic performances. And though you will probably be yelling at Piersanti’s character, she does a fantastic job as Lila, ranging from the harmless school girl crush to becoming the borderline Swimfan. The uncomfortable squirming from Lila’s naïve actions will all be worth it after seeing this film.
Honestly, I expected something completely different going into this movie based on what I saw in the trailer. What I got was much better. I can’t say that this premise will be everyone’s cup of tea. It Felt Like Love is a beautifully shot and twisted, coming of age story focusing on the pressures of sexual relationships for young teens. Though the film has a simple plot, there are many layers to each character. Watching the layers brilliantly unfold is what makes this movie hypnotizing. I only wish the film was longer.
It Felt Like Love opens in Los Angeles on March 28.
“It Felt Like Love” Official Trailer HD
Originally posted on RedCarpetCrash.com
It’s the most anticipated film of the year. Divergent, starring Shailene Woodley (The Spectacular Now) and Theo James (Underworld: Awakening) is sure to have as much success as The Hunger Games and Twilight trilogies.
The first installment of the saga is set in a futuristic Chicago where people are divided into five distinct factions based on their personalities. Tris (Woodley) discovers that she is Divergent, meaning she does not fit into any of the factions; and soon discovers that in order to stay alive she must hide in a faction. The only problem is she chooses the most physically challenging one, Dauntless meaning “the brave.” As she struggles and fights through most of the film to prove herself to her new faction, she encounters many obstacles. This includes the hard-headed, tough leader Eric (Jai Courtney) and a non-stop competitive bully, Peter (Miles Teller). While training for Dauntless, Tris uncovers a horrifying plot forming in her seemingly perfect society.
The film held a special premiere in Dallas a couple weeks back. The “bad boys” themselves, Miles Teller and Jai Courtney, walked the red carpet and took pictures with many extremely enthusiastic Divergent fans. The next morning I got a chance to sit down with the two stars at Dallas’ Ritz Carlton Hotel to discuss the movie, the fans, and their fears. Now don’t be fooled by the characters they play. Their kindness and dry sense of humor made for one hilarious interview.
I have to give you guys props for last night on the red carpet. You handled your fans really well. I mean right when you (pointing to Miles) walked in, I saw you take a picture with a girl and she just grabbed your face and kissed you on the cheek.
Miles: “Yeah, yeah…”
Jai: “He’s use to that though; that happens all the time.”
Miles: “Yeah that’s, uh, you know, that’s a part of the business when you’re a heart throb (Jai laughs)… No. This one girl was like can I touch your hair? And I was like, yeah, sure. And she was like “oh God!” (Pulls hair and shakes head aggressively) Alright, so now I know if somebody asks “can I touch your hair?” I’m going to say “no.” So, like, you learn as you go. It’s hard in the moment though. It’s like; you (points to Jai) kissed a girl last night. You kissed a girl on the cheek, you told me.”
Jai: “I was kissing girls all over the place. It’s a free country.”
Miles: “Yeah, it’s a free country (laughs).”
Clearly your fans are very bold. What’s the boldest thing so far on this tour that a fan has done to you guys?
Miles: “Well this is our first stop on the tour…”
Jai: “Yeah that was it. You saw all of it. But it’s only going to get bolder from here.”
Miles: “…but teenage girls, they can be aggressive. I see One Direction videos, they’re…I mean no I don’t, (whispers) love them, Harry Style’s is my fav.” (Jai laughs)
Well you two play some not so nice characters in this movie. But I’d say the biggest “jerk moment” from both of y’all is probably when Eric had Peter beat up Tris.
Jai: “Woah!”
Miles: “Well that’s a little; I mean it’s not really revealed like that.”
Jai: “I mean, it’s part of the training. I didn’t have Peter beat up Tris.”
Miles: “Yeah.”
I mean you basically set it up.
Miles: “Oh my God, obviously she’s on Tris’ side were not going to win this argument.”
Jai: “You’ve misinterpreted things grossly.”
Miles: “I mean we’re just trying to survive Dauntless; is all we’re trying to do.”
Jai: “It’s a training exercise. She’s going to face tougher guys than Peter out there in the real world.”
Miles: “Yeah, I mean not tougher, but (Miles takes at a tough man sniff) taller.”
Jai: “Yeah, taller.”
So obviously that scene wasn’t hard for you guys to shoot at all then?
Jai: Morally? No (Shakes head).
Miles: “Well I mean Shai, at first; they did it with Shailene’s stunt double. And they said look three guys grab her. And they told the stunt double to; you know, kick and do all that. And she beat the crap out of these three dudes. So I was nervous to get in there. But then they said, yo, choke Shailene out. And I was, like, get in here. Come to daddy. So, you know, just a little bit of that.”
The funny thing is that there are some fans that want Peter and Tris together, even though he’s so horrible to her.
Miles: “I know right?”
And I think that stems from a girl wanting a bad boy still. Why do you guys think girls want the bad guy, even when they’re so horrible to them?
Miles: “I mean we’re more exciting. You know, like, nice is very cliché. You want a nice guy to go to the donut shop. If you want a bad boy, you better be able to role with the punches. (Jai laughs) We’re sexy. We look good in leather.
Jai: “Right?” (Looks to me)
Miles: “You tell me. What are you into? Do you like a bad boy?”
I think I like a… well there is an excitement to them, but I prefer a gentleman, and you can be a bad boy as long as you’re a gentleman.
Jai: “You can be a bad boy and a gentleman.”
Miles: “Right, well I think that girls think that they can make a bad guy change. I think for girls that’s the challenge. But most of the time, they don’t change. But I’d love for Peter and Tris to hook up.”
I think I’d like to see that.
Jai: “Yeah I’d watch that.”
Miles: “Yeah, right?”
We get to see a lot of the characters greatest fears in this movie, and like Four said, “Everybody is afraid of something.” So what is something that you guys are afraid of?
Jai: “I’m not much into arachnidan.”
Miles: “What is, is that a spider?
Jai: “Yeah, Not into spiders.”
Miles: “Spiders or snakes, what would freak you out more? Cause there’s two different movies about them?”
Jai: “See snakes don’t freak me out. I don’t want to get bitten by one, but like I would hold one.”
Miles: “You would hold one? You’re cool with that? What about sharks, great white sharks?”
Jai: “Grew up wrestling them dude.”
You (To Jai) are a bad boy.
Jai: “You know it.” (Miles laughs)
Miles: I don’t like cats, I’m not afraid of them…
Jai: “Cats suck! I’m with you on that.”
Miles: “…I’m allergic to them. I feel like a cat is, like, plotting to kill me.”
Jai: “We’re going to lose fans here.”
Miles: “Were going to lose our cat audience here. That’s fine; we got our dog audience…Oh, losing my youth! I’m afraid, I mean, I’m not afraid of getting old.”
Jai: “You’re getting old man.”
Miles: “Dude, you’re like 32 years-old man.”
Jai: “We’re the same age brother.”
Miles: “No we’re not!”
Jai: “Yes, we are (Laughs).”
Miles: “There’s no way this (Points to himself) is the same age, man. Look at you.”
Jai: “He can’t come to grips with that.”
(To set the record straight, both Miles and Jai are 27 years-old.)
Divergent hits theaters March 21.
Originally posted on RedCarpetCrash.com
For those of you who enjoyed the film Mad Love (1995) with Drew Barrymore and Chris O’Donnell, don’t get your hopes with this dull knock-off.
Barefoot begins like any classic romantic comedy. The reckless womanizer, Jay (Scott Speedman) tries to sneak off in the morning to avoid having to buy breakfast for the girl he just slept with. You know these guys; they just won’t “ever” commit! But things take a more dramatic turn when Jay’s real problems get out of hand. He owes a huge gambling
debt to some dangerous men. Luckily for Jay, his brother is getting married. This means Jay can have the perfect opportunity to ask his rich parents for money, in the most subtle way possible of course. Only one problem, his family thinks he has an incredible girlfriend that’s a nurse. After being rejected many times, Jay meets Daisy (Evan Rachel Wood), a mental patient at the hospital where he works as a janitor. After a series of events, Jay takes Daisy as his girlfriend for the weekend; only causing more issues for the two further down the road.
I was just so disappointed in this film. I guess I shouldn’t have expected much, given the title. By the way, the reason the film is called “Barefoot” is because Daisy hates wearing shoes. They hurt her feet. But even if you put that fact aside, this film was just a sloppy mess. All the problems presented in the film get bounced around. When they are eventually addressed, they are resolved in a half-ass manner.
Sadly enough, what made this film lose all hope was the complete lack of chemistry between Speedman and Wood. I mean it’s a love story! Were the casting directors present during the two’s audition? I can deal with the ridiculous thought of a playboy changing his ways for a nut job, but I can’t believe he would fall for that nut job when it is apparent that their relationship comes off sibling like. The character Daisy has to be one of the most annoying female love interests I’ve seen in a long time. The worst part is the moments she’s meant to be funny, come off random and awkward. There is not one part in this film where they have a true connection, or pull off a believable romance. Their relationship is so forced. Honestly, because I felt more like she was his annoying little sister, it was also creepy.
I love both Speedman and Wood as actors, but clearly not together. And I know they have managed some great romantic chemistry with a variety of other actors. The saving grace in this film was the refreshing performance by Treat Williams (Everwood) who plays Jay’s father, and is the only sensible person.
If this movie had provided a passionate love story of two lost souls, completely different and desperate to find one another, the rest of the film would have been tolerable. Take Mad Love for example. They addressed the issues of a serious mental condition and included a raw romance that you ached for while watching. Barefoot, unfortunately, missed that mark.
Barefoot opens in select theaters February 21.
Originally posted on RedCarpetCrash.com