On Thursday, September 9th Neuehouse LA hosted IFC’s THE NOWHERE INN on their Sunset Blvd Rooftop.
The metafictional feature stars Annie Clark (a.k.a. GRAMMY award-winning recording and touring artist St. Vincent), Carrie Brownstein (Portlandia, Sleater-Kinney), and Dakota Johnson (Fifty Shades of Grey, Our Friend, Suspiria). Directed by Bill Benz (Portlandia, At Home With Amy Sedaris) THE NOWHERE INN is a densely woven, laugh-out-loud funny, and increasingly fractured commentary on reality, identity, and authenticity.
The screening was socially distanced, following covid protocols. Attendees were given complimentary popcorn, with the option to purchase a themed alcoholic beverage from the bar. Throughout the film moviegoers were laughing along to the witty dialogue and performances of the actors. The film stayed consistent in pace throughout the evening, examining the vital role of grounding friendships in an industry as creative and competitive as music and film. Carrie Brownstein’s character struggles with staying committed to a documentary she agreed to help her friend Annie Clark complete while on tour. While filming the documentary Carrie attempts to balance her own work and family life, with her father being sick in the hospital. She looks to him for strength during moments in the film when Annie is seemingly unrecognizable to her friend. Annie Clark is faced with examining herself outside of her perspective when she appears to be “too nice” and a pushover amongst her colleagues. The film takes a non-traditional narrative approach that pays off in the end when Annie Clark achieves the vision of her film, despite the cost it took to get there.
After the movie attendees were invited to a rooftop after-party with drinks and music. The weather was perfect for the LA September night. The film was a refreshing experience, and a breath of fresh air to see Annie Clark, aka St. Vincent in this persona. Her vocals were magical throughout the film and the song that was composed for it was beautifully crafted. You can watch THE NOWHERE INN in theaters and everywhere you rent movies on September 17th.
