Ellie Parker is funny in such real-life ways
Ellie Parker (the film and the
character, played by Naomi Watts) got under my skin in ways I didn't
expect. Although Ellie's life as an aspiring actor going to one
audition after another in LA, isn't anything like my own, I found
myself relating to her--understanding exactly why she was laughing or
crying, why she felt trapped, how she felt toward her best friend, why
she let her frustrations get the best of her. I essentially empathized
my way through this film. It all felt so real to me.
I think two or three factors really played into my experience with this
film. For one, Naomi Watts based this film somewhat on her own life. It
makes sense that even a semi-autobiographical film will come across as
"more real" and identifiable to its audience.
Another factor is that Naomi partnered with her friend Scott Coffey, a
director and screenwriter, to make this film. (He also plays a somewhat
significant character--one who is endearing yet at the same time
awkward and maddening.) I could really sense the fun that Naomi and
Scott had making this film together. I sensed their extreme comfort
level and mutual understanding and the many conversations they probably
had along the way. It wasn't just "work" to them. (I guess they filmed
it over a five-year period.)
Finally, the film was shot on digital video in a style that really drew me in. It had just the right amount of a "home video" effect--it added to the story rather than distracting from it.
Beyond all of that, Naomi Watts is amazing, and there are just some
really funny moments in this film. They're funny in the way life can be
funny (and sad and frustrating all at once). I'm going to venture out
and say I loved this film. But I say it with caution, because it's not
for everyone. I think anyone who considers themselves a moderately- to
highly-adventurous film watcher will not be disappointed.