A Must See Film – The Last Word Out in Theaters March 3rd!

In The Last Word, Shirley MacLaine is Harriet Lauler, a once successful businesswoman in tight control of every aspect of her life. As she reflects upon her accomplishment, she’s suddenly inspired to engage a young local writer, Anne Sherman (Amanda Seyfried), to pen her life’s story. When the initial result doesn’t meet Harriet’s high expectations, she sets out to reshape the way she is remembered, with Anne dragged along as an unwilling accomplice. As the journey unfolds, the two women develop a unique bond which alters not only Harriet’s legacy, but also Anne’s future.

Shirley MacClaine’s character, Harriet Lauler shows that we can change our legacy anytime we choose. If you are a Shirley MacClaine fan like I am, you are going to fall in love with this character – flaws and all. Because at the end of the day, Harriet wants people to see in themselves what she sees – their potential and gifts. She challenges those around her to rise up and be the best version of themselves, but in such a way it can push people away because of her directness. I love that about the characters Shirley has played over the years. From playing Aurora Greenway in Terms of Endearment (one of my all-time favorite movies) to Steel Magnolias, I see a bit of myself and my mom in Shirley’s characters. A bit quirky but with good intentions. And I have always appreciated strong women throughout history who move to their own beat.

The super talented Amanda Seyfried does a superb job as the reporter who Harriet has determined should be the one to write her orbiturary. Their journey together is a beautiful thing to watch unfold, even if at times it can be raw and emotional. Again, I love how Harriet challenges those she cares about to push their own limits. As she says in the movie “I am who I am.” If only we could all accept ourselves so fully – warts and all.

Be sure to bring along your mom, girlfriends and check out The Last Word. It has the potential to move you in such a way that you might want to make changes in your own life! And that is pretty powerful!

Shirley MacClaine has had quite the career and it was such a wonderful experience seeing her and the filmmakers at The Last Word premiere this week at the Arclight Theater. In person, you can see Shirley is in fact a bit of each of these characters she plays. She truly is a Hollywood living legend and I hope you find this film and endearing as I did!

Here are some pictures and videos from the red carpet premiere. Enjoy!

The Last Word Premiere press waiting for the cast and filmmakers to walk down the red carpet

Living legend Shirley MacClaine and Amanda Seyfried on the carpet.

At the screening I ran into Philip Baker Hall who is one of my favorite actors as well! I told him I was a huge fan and especially liked him in Boogie Nights (and that one scene). He laughed and was very sweet and let me take a picture with him.

The after-party was held at Le Jardin and most of the actors and filmmakers stopped by for some drinks and appetizers.

And introducing Miss AnnJewel Lee Dixon who I bet we will see more of!

I introduced myself to the director, Mark Pellington, who has had quite the career – from music videos to films, he captured the beauty and flaws we all have in The Last Word.