Several of the actors in the film were present, as was executive producer Joe Grano. Bobby’s beautiful wife and son (who settled in for a long winter’s nap as soon as the film started and slept peacefully through the whole movie and the Q & A session) also graced the red carpet.

I generally am not a huge fan of Lucille Ball-type slapstick, but this physical comedy was indeed funny and did contribute to the story–and was for more mature audiences. Alison Munn was wonderful as Mary, Jeff Shecter’s (Sam’s) love interest. Bobby himself showed a totally different side than his Nick Massi, and was very funny, especially as a waiter in an early scene. The audience also roared with a pratfall later on, which he was asked by an audience member (Frank Rovello, was that you?) to deomonstrate so that we knew it wasn’t a stunt double (he did).

I thought the biggest scene stealers were Michael Longoria (cast somewhat against type) and Dave McCoy, the former security guard at the Jersey Boys’ stage door.

The original music was great, written by, among others, our own aspiring Henry Mancini, Tituss Burgess.

Bobby himself described the film as a cross between “Wedding Crashers” and “Waiting for Guffman”. I also saw elements of “The Producers”, “Animal House” and the David Schwimmer/Jason Lee comedy “Kissing a Fool.”

Bobby said the film was shot in 23 days, besting budget by 3 days. Well, that’s about the time it took to shoot Oscar winners “Marty” and “Million Dollar Baby”).

My colleagues above–what went on at the cast party? Those are usually the best stories. It was Norene’s birthday today, so I’m assuming they had some sort of testimonial dessert buffet in her honor!! Did any lampshades go on anyone’s head??