Let's dive into the exciting world of Hollywood and the upcoming comedy film, 'Second First Date', which is shaping up to be a delightful treat for fans of romantic comedies with a twist.
The Story Behind the Story
'Second First Date' is more than just a movie; it's a project that has come full circle, with roots tracing back to a university course. The film's concept was first pitched by Jeremy Garelick, founder of American High, during a 'Script-to-Screen' course at Syracuse University. This course, an educational initiative by American High, aimed to immerse students in the development pipeline of the studio.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the collaborative nature of the film's inception. Garelick's original idea was developed further by Matt Sacca, who was then a senior student, along with his classmates Fallon Siegler and Daniel Walters. This trio wrote the initial draft, gaining invaluable hands-on experience in script development and learning to navigate studio notes and feedback.
A Star-Studded Collaboration
At the heart of this project is Peyton Elizabeth Lee, who will not only star in the film but also produce it under her banner, Prince Hobo Productions. Lee, known for her roles in 'Doogie Kamealoha, M.D.' and 'Stumptown', brings her comedic timing and producing chops to the table, making her the perfect lead for this high-concept comedy.
Garelick, the CEO and founder of American High, praised Lee's involvement, stating, "Peyton was the obvious choice for the lead. Her comedic timing is impeccable, and her producing skills make her an ideal partner."
But Lee isn't the only talent involved. Matt Sacca, who wrote the script, has been a cornerstone of American High's creative pipeline. His journey with the company began as an intern, and he has since provided feedback on countless scripts and expanded the company's reach to over 100 universities.
A Unique Premise
'Second First Date' follows Nora, a romantically jaded high-schooler, who falls for the guy of her dreams, Charlie, at a wild house party. However, when Charlie suffers a concussion and forgets their entire night together, Nora embarks on a mission to recreate the same bash, beat by unhinged beat, to win him over again.
In my opinion, this premise is a refreshing take on the classic romantic comedy genre. It explores the idea of fate and second chances in a unique and entertaining way.
A Company with a Vision
American High, founded by multi-talented filmmaker Garelick, specializes in provocative teen comedies. With 22 features under their belt, including notable titles like 'Big Time Adolescence' and 'The Binge', they have established themselves as a force in the industry.
But American High's impact goes beyond just producing films. They operate out of a former school in Syracuse, NY, and spearhead the nonprofit Academy at American High, which has trained over 1,000 students for careers in film, tech, and media. This commitment to education and mentorship is a testament to their vision and values.
Final Thoughts
'Second First Date' promises to be a hilarious and heartwarming comedy with a talented cast and crew. It's a project that showcases the power of collaboration and the potential for growth within the industry. Personally, I can't wait to see this film and the unique twist it brings to the romantic comedy genre. It's a perfect example of how a simple idea can evolve into a full-fledged production with the right team and vision.
