For Your Consideration
Went to see a preview screening of Christopher Guest’s new film For Your Consideration at Lincoln Center’s Walter Reade Theater. I dragged Nick away from work to go. Christopher Guest, Eugene Levy (and his eyebrows), Catherine O’Hara, Parker Posey and Harry Shearer were in attendance. In the spirit of his previous mockumentarys, it is part-scripted by Guest and Eugene Levy and part-improvised by the stupendous and large cast of actors. It’s about Hollywood and what happens when a small film “Home for Purim” gets some Oscar Buzz. [On the official site of For Your Consideration - Click on Home for Purim for it's "official site." Nick heard the actors singing along to the film - the song it plays - in the theater lobby on a bathroom run.]
Spoiler Alert: Midway through the film the title gets changed to “Home for Thanksgiving” An audience member asked if this was based on events that had happened to the panel. Response from Christopher Guest: These things have happened in Hollywood. Not many people know that “Star Wars” started out as “Home for Purim.” Yoda was a Mohel. There’s also a snippet in the film where they make fun of Charlie Rose’s interview style. Christopher Guest is asked if he is worried about being on the show. His response is a deadpan “I’ve been on Charlie Rose…I’ve been on Charlie Rose.” The group also commented on the talent of fellow actor Fred Willard – let him do his thing and stand back. Parker Posey commented on the difference between working wiith Christopher Guest as opposed to a clueless director who asks you to throw in some random improv into a scene. The actors in the film came in their own costume and character development choices within the framework of the film and on occasion surprised their costars who had to work with, react, improv with what was brought. Another story about the evening here.
After that went with Nick to get 99 Cent Pizza on 41st and Ninth Ave. It is across from a homeless center and a homeless gentleman asked us for some spare change to get a slice. Nick gave him enough for a slice and a half or two. He then suggested I should marry Nick – a good catch. Nick is great and I hope he finds his special someone.
Tags: Catherine O'Hara, Christopher Guest, Eugene Levy, film, For Your Consideration, Harry Shearer, Home for Purim, mockumentary, Nick, Parker Posey, pizza