Top Dog

Director of Alpha Dog praises JT for film role

I began my journey this evening getting dressed at 5:30 - The top story on the Local NBC news was about the premiere and the story. There were clips from the film, a live remote, and taped interviews with Susan Markowitz.

The premiere was held at the famous Cinerama Dome on Sunset near Vine. Free popcorn and drinks flowed as well as the celebrities. (more later)

The film played to a packed audience of Hollywood elite. I saw many heads of agencies as well as other big producers.

The film played as expected. Fantastic.

The most incredible moment came after the film when Susan Markowitz (the real mother of the kidnapped kid) embraced Sharon Stone (who portrayed her in the film) - It was an emotional and undescribable event.

What I have discovered over the years is that you can usually judge how well a Hollywood audience enjoys a film by whether they attend the after party.

The after party was absolutely packed. I managed to say hello to Paris Hilton (sorry Harpshaman, never did get that photo with her) and reminded her of the time she auditioned for "Freddy Vs Jason". I congratulated Kevin Connolly on his continued success on "Entourage" and Jon Voight was as gracious and classy as ever.

But what I found interesting in talking to the many agents, managers and producers is that they ALL... every single one... heaped praise on Justin Timberlake. Yes, Ben Foster and Anton Yelchin were singled out as well, but many said "Justin's a movie star" and they're right... despite the bashing that goes on here. Justin ain't going away.

Justin was as sweet and as graceful as can be. I met him two years ago casting this and he still remembered my partner and I. Sharon looked as beautiful as ever. Ben Foster was sporting a beard. Emile came in a white t-shirt and jacket, playing the bad-boy to the hilt and attracting a lot of females :) - Chris Marquette has a short haircut and was adorable (as always), new dad Shawn Hatosy was as confident as always and the ladies were just as lovely. Olivia Wilde (a future star if there ever was one), Heather Wahlquist (looking as hot as ever), Amanda Seyfried (soooooo happy to have finally turned 21), and Chairty Shea, whose career has skyrocketed since she was cast in the film.

Then there was Nick, as proud as ever. Looking fit and trim with his trademark backwards baseball cap, and smiles for everyone.

I left around midnight and the party was still in full swing.

I write this at 2am, having wound down and put my baby back to sleep.

I know many of you still don't believe Justin is capable of actually acting, but tonight proved to the industry, that Justin is a damn good actor. Hopefully, instead of all the bashing, you'll judge for yourself and come to the same conclusion.

This is a cast I am damn proud of (can't say that about all the films I've cast) and I hope the film touches a nerve in America.

The audience will decide.

Thanks for your time.

Matt Barry
Casting Director
Co-Producer