WIP Talk: Sundance Days 2 (continued) and 3 (Part 1)

• Too many films to see! Photograph by Jessica Mosby. •

I keep a small notebook with me at all times to write down random thoughts and take detailed notes during film screening. This afternoon, in the random thoughts section, I wrote, “TOTALLY EXCITED TO BE HERE!” And yes, I did write it in all caps. Truly though, I am having so much fun! The films (except for one that I walked out of, and will therefore not be named) have been exciting and inspiring! The level of celebrity has been manageable, the crowds have been sparse, and I’ve even made some new friends that want to see as many films as I do!

What makes Sundance, or really film festivals in general (although nothing compares to Sundance), great is that you get to see a film with 1,200 other fans who totally enhance the experience with their energy and enthusiasm. Then, post-screening, you get to see the directors, producers, and stars answer audience questions! I am terrible at spotting celebrities, so unless someone’s name is announced on a microphone, I am oblivious.

• Carlos Cuaron and Gael Garcia Bernal on stage after Rudo y Cursi (note the velvet blazer)! Photograph by Jessica Mosby. •

Last night I attended the American premiere of Rudo y Cursi by Carlos Cuaron (Alfonso’s brother). The film, which is already a big hit in Mexico, was the first project by Alfonso Cuaron, Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu, and Guillermo del Toro’s new production company, Cha Cha Cha. The film stars Gael Garcia Bernal (who is even dreamier in person!) and Diego Luna. Rudo y Cursi is about a madcap comedy about two soccer playing brothers in Mexico, but the film has very little actual soccer. Post-screening, Carlos Cuaron, Alfonso Cuaron, Guillermo del Toro, and Gael Garcia Bernal were all on stage for the Q&A. Let me tell you, I’ve loved Gael Garcia Bernal ever since I saw Y Tu Mama Tambien (that film also featured him opposite Diego Luna) – and now that I’ve seen him in person, I find him even more appealing. Who knew he was so witty and downright charismatic? And did I mention that he was wearing a navy velvet blazer with cowboy boots! The man has some style!

• The 500 Days of Summer gang! Photograph by Jessica Mosby (from the balcony). •

Tonight I saw the new Zooey Deschanel/Joseph Gordon-Levitt vehicle, 500 Days of Summer. The film, which is premiering at the festival, stars Zooey Deschanel as Summer and Joseph Gordon-Levitt as her thwarted love interest. Now, I am a sucker for romantic comedies. I do, however, object that they have given me a false and idealistic sense of romance; my boyfriend Ryan likes to blame the world’s romantic problems on the unrealistic values that people have internalized from a life of watching romantic comedies. Nonetheless, 500 Days of Summer is an anti-romantic comedy – a very funny and charming film that presents no false ideals or unrealistic values about modern day romance among twentysomethings (my people). The film also builds a case against dating your coworkers, something I am [due to personal experience] fully against. Post-screening, Director Marc Webb was on hand along with stars Zooey Deschanel (who was celebrating her birthday tonight) and Joseph Gordon-Levitt. I was so excited to see Zooey Deschanel because I think she (especially her clothing style and music) is just too adorable! Tonight she was wearing a cute vintage-inspired dark green shirt dress with black tights and heels! Her character Summer was very stylish throughout the film, so I expected nothing less!

Tomorrow I promise a full report of all the films I’ve seen. Oh, and of course the parties!