Famous (I) (2021) User Reviews

I really liked it

[mmendes-617-947948 · 8/10 · 17 December 2021]

I actually really liked this one and there's nothing fake about me or my opinion. Especially resonates if you ever lived in LA. Different Strokes for different folks.

A UNIQUE AND IMPACTFUL EXPERIENCE

[dangleart-62-547686 · 8/10 · 29 March 2022]

After seeing this staged in Los Angeles and absolutely loving it, I was nervous to see its realization in film format. It's like reading a book and seeing the film after, right? Rarely going to be a positive transition.

That is why this was such a unique experience! It made me so happy that the powerful story that I saw on stage had the same strong impact on me as a film.

I have seen other projects done by this creative team, and they consistently have a strong social impact, while keeping me raptly entertained I'm definitely going to keep watching.

Yeah - fake reviews - a really bad movie

[srussell1234 · 2/10 · 13 December 2021]

Come on - it has Chris Kattan in it - he is as reliably horrible as the other b-list varieties we see popping up.

It tries so very hard to be cutting edge - theater and film - let's mix em together but it fails horribly.

Says nothing new or profound - not funny - not tragic - not really much of anything.

There is such a low barrier to entry now for making "films" that I wish people would try harder to make good ones.

Eye-opening!

[hollycolella · 10/10 · 18 December 2021]

As usual, Michael Leoni does not disappoint. It's an emotional roller coaster that truly shows the unfair price many have had to pay to get to the dream they thought they wanted. The cast did an amazing job of vividly painting this picture. When a story needs to be told, Leoni tells it. An absolute must see!

Courageous and creative representation of a Hollywood not too long ago.

[lendecandia · 10/10 · 11 December 2021]

The 90's could be look upon fondly until recent truths of the abuse of power and the destruction of innocence have become illuminated through the MeToo movement. The cast and pace of the show are incredible, so engaged and passionate in transporting the audience to this glamorous, superficial time through the eyes of the victims. One can only imagine the emotions associated with doing this show night after night. Be prepared to be educated, be ready to invest your heart into the loss of youth too soon and your soul in the abuse of power that cannot be forgiven. Don't engage to be entertained, engage to get angry and support these voices that need to be heard.

Very powerful film!

[ninahrichmond · 10/10 · 15 December 2021]

This film was adapted from a stage play of the same name. The play first surfaced just as the ME TOO movement was bringing light to the subject matter: abuse of young people in the entertainment industry by those in charge. The topic is unquestionably heavy! But the movie is watchable and compelling. I found both the play and the movie very emotionally affecting. And I was really impressed by how well the adaptation worked! I think that is a tribute to the really excellent direction and editing.

The performances, many by actors who were in the original theater piece, were, without exception, wonderful. I particularly found the characters of Logan and Dylan Mast outstanding.

Intense film about sexual abuses in the motion picture industry in 1994, before we know it.

[savoia-giovanni · 9/10 · 11 December 2021]

The staging by Michael Leoni is impeccable and superbly mastered. The "theatrical" setting, the light, the soundtrack, music by Youngblood and the rhythm of the editing with constantly simultaneous scenes are perfect, and bring a dimension of chaos that plays out for the characters and for Jason, admirably well interpreted by everyone. Based on the omnipresent abuse and remorse of the past that he lives in synchronization in his mind and on stage between adolescence and the adult of today, Jason confronts his demons by trying to control all that escapes him, and to attempt to warn the younger actors of the threat that threatens .... and to exonerate himself in order to rebuild himself.

What a ride! Leaves a lasting impression...

[christined-54989 · 10/10 · 20 December 2021]

From about ten minutes in you are in it, I don't think anyone in the theater moved. Fast paced, funny, tragic, and compelling. The crazy part is I saw this when it was a play...I know what happens...and it was STILL so engaging that I laughed and cried all over again! The camera work and direction are pure magic and the actors are expertly cast. I never would have thought a film of a play could be this exciting?? THIS IS A MUST SEE!!

Super Creative and Powerful Film

[hbarish · 9/10 · 20 December 2021]

This movie was a stage play that was so creatively shot, that alone is reason enough to see this film. Add in the incredibly powerful and important message and great acting makes this a must see indie film.

Don't walk, RUN to see it.

[coolredboots-97171 · 10/10 · 1 January 2022]

I loved it. It is exciting and captivating. Director Michael Leoni takes us on a wild and tragic ride. This director is one to watch. This is a must see. The cast is superb and in particular C. J Valleroy gives a magical performance. Bravo!

More than a film, it's an experience!

[teresadc-31909 · 10/10 · 8 January 2022]

I've seen the actual theatre production and loved it then but seeing the film was a whole new experience. Watching the film gave me more insight as to what was happening in the show. The actors are so committed to their roles that it made the film so real. At first you may think it's a stage production, but after 10 minutes one gets absorbed and it plays as a film. "Famous" is an experience where all senses are challenged. The music, the lighting, the choreography and the actual story sweep you into another world where you actually feel it on a visceral level. The content is intense but it is a story that MUST be told. The writer, director Michael Leoni has captured the essence of the 90's and the Hollywood scene. He is a true storyteller who challenges the viewer on many levels.

I cannot recommend this film enough. It may be tough at first to watch but it's message is a powerful one.

WHAT A RIDE! Loved this.......

[scottyrob-1 · 10/10 · 29 December 2021]

I really enjoyed this film. A terrific blending of stage to film in live performance. After seeing Leoni's compelling AMERICAN STREET KID, I wanted to see more. He infuses FAMOUS with a sense of urgency and keeps it all moving seamlessly. It's brutal, funny, frantic, and I could not look away. The young actors are a joy to watch. Great company of actors here. Leoni is very good with dialogue and I can't wait to see what he has in the can. FAMOUS is a wild ride and ultimately quite moving Take the ride.

Only saw the trailer. First impression

[josephostevens · 9 January 2022]

I know a lot of work and heart went into making this. It looks like everyone cared and wanted to creat something moving. From the trailer. I personally wasn't moved to watch the entire film. I will watch it as to not be disrespectful. More to come.

Watch this film!

[daniluna · 10/10 · 7 January 2022]

This film is very powerful and gets into difficult subject matter but does it in a way that brings you in and leaves you feeling moved and ready to make change in the world. The stage performance translated wonderfully to a film, I really felt like I saw the stage performance but also felt like it was shot as a movie. The subject matter is intense, the way it is presented in the story and how it unfolds definitely compels and I was glued to the screen. It was an emotional ride and left a lasting impression of empowerment and a working towards change. Don't miss this film, and check out other films from the 11:11 project, you won't be disappointed.