Open House

The movie Open House was a fun independently made movie musical about the world of real estate, no really, it's about real estate. If you like independent film, quirky musicals, and/or good comedy then this is for you. Be warned that the movie is VERY low-budget and not everybody sings completely on tune (but they were trying). One of the songs, "Selling a Dream," was even pushed for an Oscar nomination for best song. It was one of the standout numbers. Personally, my favortites were "It's My House," and "Fantabulous." These were both sung by Anthony Rapp who played a role that will leave most fans in shock at his character Barry. The movie is strengthened by a good script, and wonderful cast. The movie stars Sally Kellerman, Jerry Doyle, Rapp and Kellie Martin among others. Everyone has at least one song to plead their side of the story and moves the plot forward. It's just fantabulous!

Barry (Anthony Rapp) is hosting an open house in the California area. When folks come to view the place, he breaks into song about how great it is. However, unknown to the young real estate agent, some folks that come to a look-over have another agenda. A young couple, for example, call themselves "sexy swipers", that is, they like to have quickies and steal loot on a walk through. Whoa! They have seen many a house without a purchase. But, wait, they may have competition from another duo of young things. There is also a hint that robbery is in the air, prompting man-and-wife police officers to hit the open house circuit. While they look for thieves they also wish to buy a nice house for themselves and start a family. Other individuals who come to Barry's place are a couple of doctors with their own plans as well. Then, too, at a neighboring house, another agent (Sally Kellerman), alerted to the sneaky pilfering, makes an effort to catch the swipers. Are they any more revelations to be had at this unusual open house? This film is definitely in the realm of the "different", being a musical about real estate with singers of varying talent. How's that for offbeat? Its also remarkable in its take on that Sunday fixture, the open house, where a lot of extracurricular activity may be present at any showing. That was an eye-opener for this naive viewer! No, there are few stars besides Kellerman but that cast is truly adept at making each character memorable. The sets, costumes, script, songs, and direction are worthy, also. I got this movie in a Big Lots pack of 3-for 3 bucks, along with a favorite flick, Mr. Jealousy, and a disc with 10 wonderful old television show episodes. Wow, did I get the bargain of the week, as OH is the kind of movie that shakes up a humdrum day.

I rented Open House because of Anthony Rapp, and after the very first song I knew that this was not what I had anticipated at all. I thought I'd be seeing a strange musical about of all things.. Real Estate! However, it proved to be new, fresh, different, funny, and entertaining to watch than I had ever thought. Who knew a musical on Real Estate could be so much fun? I absolutely love Open House, I think it's hilarious and all the energy and enthusiasm the actors, director, and other makers of the film have put into it help to make it so captivating. I love the song "My House" which comes towards the end of the film, I think it was my favorite because it was funny, but really sad and so sincere and raw with emotion, loved Anthony's voice in it. The DVD has some great features including, the alternate scene, middle "Japanese Version" which had me laughing so hard I was crying.

The entire cast did a really great job, and I admire the way the film was put together.

I'm definitely going to buy the DVD as soon as I can, and if you haven't seen it yet, you're really missing out.

On Friday night October 15th, a friend and I went to the Austin Film Festival screening of Open House. I'd read that it was a no-budget musical, and I wasn't expecting a lot. What I saw was clearly made on the cheap. But it was also funny, weird, and totally fresh.

The movie starts with a clever montage of that suburban ritual-the placing of open house flags and signs. Most of the main characters are introduced here. We see real estate agent Barry(Anthony Rapp) set up an open house. Yes, there are finger sandwiches. A couple(James Duval and Kellie Martin) argue over the home listing while in bed. Dave(Jerry Doyle)robs a jewelry store, then gets stuck when his junky car won't start.A pair of dubious cops(Robert Peters and Hedy Burress) play slap and tickle while investigating the jewelry store.

All these characters collide at Barry's open house. It becomes clear that nobody is who they seem. I could never predict what was going to happen next. The craziness, lies, and musical numbers spill over into other houses. We meet drunken real estate agent Marjorie(Sally Kellerman), hilarious as she shamelessly flirts while offering home shoppers drinks.

"Open House" is like "Mad Mad Mad MAd World" meets "Rent" All the characters get cool musical numbers and funny one liners, even as their deep, personal flaws/secrets are revealed. Writers Mirvish and Maddox keep the story zipping around corners you won't see coming, and they also score with some nice songs.

"Sellin' A Dream," Kellerman's duet with Doyle, even made me a little teary eyed. The film has some low budget problems( the sound mix was iffy),but I liked it anyway. It's not for everyone,but if want something that defies convention and categories, check this one out.

I first had an interest in this movie after doing a search for my favorite actor, Anthony Rapp. I originally rented the movie and after renting and watching it several times , I fell in love with Open House. So much so that I immediately purchased my own copy, as my friends and I watch Open House with veneration. This is the general consensus of everyone I know who loves this movie. My friends and online buddies and I quote the lines all the time. The entire concept of a real estate musical is pure genius. The movie starts on a "high note" and doesn't disappoint. Open House is refreshing because of the absence of "cool special effects". The movie has a loose plot at best, dorky but lovable characters, and is entertaining in that it does not seek to 'wow' its viewers. So, not only was the film fun for the whole family and all of my friends, but it was also original and innovative, an instant classic in my movie collection.