Playwright/producer/screenwriter Elizabeth Hemmerdinger gives us an inside look at what it was like out there in Hollywood during Oscars weekend. (Here’s Part 1)
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 21
My film partner, Catherine Tambini, and I were invited to the SHORTS HD celebration of the filmmakers nominated for—guess what—short films! The venue was the beautiful Paley Center in Beverly Hills, just a few minutes from our hotel. Of course, there’s no walking in L.A., so we took a cab. We hung out with about a hundred movie movers and shakers. And two folks painted like gold Oscars, doing a weird slow dance and standing stock still. We were too superstitious to get a photo with Oscar, so we did a few selfies, watched our friend Ellen Goosenberg—a nominee for her film Crisis Hotline—and the rest of her team shine in their moment in the spotlight. Then back to the hotel with VERY sore feet. Tomorrow’s a long day and a three-party night, so we’re having room service and watching SNL. We’re going to Elton John’s viewing party, then Harvey Weinstein’s party, and then we hustle back to Elton’s after-party to catch up with Vin Roberti and his lovely wife, Amy—who is a major player in international tax issues. Those stories to come.
Catherine and me practicing the art of the selfie.
Catherine taking pictures of Ellen Goosenberg and Dana Perry, director and producer, respectively, of Crisis Hotline and their team.
Me and another nominee, Mat Kirkby, director of The Phone Call. What am I wearing? you ask. Max Mara.
The party’s over.