Okay, I was gonna get to this sooner. I was fortunate enough to have been at the premier screening for this film right on Hollywood Blvd. proper! I went with four of my closest friends (we are not all in "the business", but we do all enjoy good film and the writer, Greg Lobb, is a friend. So I hope that doesn't disqualify me from giving a review here, and Greg - no, I won't say who I am! So don't ask me if it's me lol. That wouldn't be fair! On to the critique...
First of all, I want to say congratulations to everyone involved! I have been to lots of screenings for lots of friends films (and some strangers, too!) and I can honestly say that this film is by far the best one that I have seen done by any of my colleagues. Since I am not giving my personal info I hope if you (Greg) are reading this, you know that this is all from the heart. Let's start with what I thought needed improvement before you shop any further: First, there are still a couple of places where the music seemed a little over the top. This is tricky because the sound track is WONDERFUL, and so all I am saying is that it was so cleanly produced and at times, clearer than the actual film dialogue, that it was maybe a bit too repetitive. Also, there are a few places where the film seemed to drag. Especially in a scene toward the end where Fiona moves in (that isn't a spoiler) - that scene just seemed forced and long and maybe out of place. I'm not a writer, so I cannot say from a technical standpoint but it just seemed too long there.
But I liked everything else. Some I liked a little bit, but there was some that I liked a lot, and even a couple of places I laughed so hard I cried. The Kevin character, played by Rook Overman (who I met at the screening and he was completely hilarious and offbeat but I liked him - can you tell lol) where he offers Scott some hallucinogen mushies to solve his sexual problems with Fiona. That was brilliant! Not only was that some of Greg's strongest writing, but Rook was just incredible. I swear that guy will be a star someday soon. He has so much presence its unreal, both on and off the screen.
Also, this has to be Avery Clyde's breakout role. If this doesn't get her noticed nothing will. She was great. I believed every laugh and every tear she produced. She was the clear choice for that role.
And props to Greg Lobb for being his usual funny self! Anyone who hasn't heard of Greg Lobb - you read it here first - he is funny and headed for fame.
I also met most of the crew and cast and ate a lot of good food, but the bottom line is I really really enjoyed this film and I have no doubts that it will get picked up by a major distributor and be in Blockbuster within the year. And those of you who see it, be sure to rent it - its worth seeing if for no other reason to hear Kevin's (Rook Overman) speech on mushrooms and sex - genius!
