Cinequest’s Opening Nights are always a spectacular treat for movie lovers, and you’ll want to join us for an evening of laughs, as director Mark Pellington (Arlington Road) presents his captivating new comedy, starring Shirley MacLaine (Terms of Endearment, Mrs. Winterbourne, Postcards from the Edge) and Amanda Seyfried (Les Misérables, Big Love, Mamma Mia!).

In business, Harriet Lauler (MacLaine) was always as good as they come; although her luck in friends and family, not so much. Now she wants to reach the world with her story and connects with a talented writer, Anne (Seyfried), to pen the tribute to her life. But Harriet’s a bit controlling, and when the writing doesn’t quite capture the way she sees herself, Harriet begins to recraft the story to fit how she sees herself-and Anne is caught up in a game for which one player isn’t playing by the rules.

MacLaine and Seyfried brilliantly create a dynamic rarely captured in comedy-where each performance is filled with just the right nuance to delicately balance comedy with sincerity. Add to the mix a wonderful supporting cast that includes Anne Heche (Wag the Dog), Philip Baker Hall (Bruce Almighty), Thomas Sadoski (Life in Pieces), and Tom Everett Scott (La La Land), and the result is pure delight.

Screening will be followed by an energetic Q&A with  director Mark Pellington, then tickets and passholders will connect at a spectacular party at The Farmer's Union (151 W. Santa Clara Street) and Olla Cocina (17 San Pedro St.), which includes amazing food, Tito's Handmade Vodka cocktails, Stella Artois, and fine wines from J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines.