‘Lost& Found in Cleveland‘ gives early Wes Anderson-sque/Christopher Guest vibes with its humor while tackling the issue of living in the Rust Belt during the 21st Century.
‘Lost& Found in Cleveland‘, is a captivating dramedy, making its world premiere tonight at the Newport Beach Film Festival. The film stars June Squibb and Stacy Keach as Gladys and Will Sokolowski, dealing with a mundane life and how NAFTA destroying the Rust Belt, both delivering wonderful performances that resonate deeply. The impressive cast includes beloved actors like Martin Sheen as Dr. Austin Raybourne, Dennis Haysbert as postman Marty Anderson and Dot-Marie Jones as showrunner Sharon Weymouth of the hit traveling show antiques show, ‘Lost & Found‘, who steals every single moment she’s on screen.
Yvette Yates Redick delivers a memorable performance in a major supporting role. ‘Lost & Found‘ TV show hosts portrayed by Loretta Devine as Joy Morris and Mark L. Walberg who plays Tom L. Hanks, with a clever nod to a case of mistaken identity with the other Mark Wahlberg are wonderful. Liza Weil plays Sophie Mathers, a who woman married for money navigates the complexities of her role as the perfect housewife and posh entertainer. Jon Lovitz is hysterical as the Mayor of Cleveland doing his fireside chats delivery over the radio, to insulting Tom L. Hanks to his face on television.
Lest we forget the marvelous performances by Yvette Yates Redick and Benjamin Steinhauser, who play mother and son, Maria and Charlie Toddy, with a unique link to to a late president from the early-20th century.
Marking the feature debut of writer-directors Marisa Guterman and Keith Gerchak, ‘Lost& Found in Cleveland‘ is billed as a new American fable exploring the complexities of the post-Industrial American Dream set in the heart of the Midwest. The narrative unfolds over a 24-hour period, weaving together the lives of five distinct individuals, each grappling with their own struggles. Their paths converge when America’s favorite antiques appraisal show comes to town, serving as a catalyst for change and self-discovery.
‘Lost& Found in Cleveland‘ received such an enthusiastic reception for its world premiere that after quickly selling out, a second screening has been scheduled for Wednesday, October 23rd, at 4:30 p.m. at Big Newport. This additional showing is a testament to the desire by audiences for a well crafted story like ‘Lost& Found in Cleveland‘s charm, humor and impact, allowing more viewers to experience its heartfelt hilarity.
From the very beginning, ‘Lost& Found in Cleveland‘ is whimsically reminiscent of early Wes Anderson-sque works, and Christopher Guest’s ‘Best in Show‘ and ‘A Mighty Wind‘ with its one-liners. Mix in elements from ‘Love, Actually‘ and we have the makings of an instant classic. Its visual style and quirky characterizations draw viewers into a world filled with dry wit and heartfelt moments. The screenplay captures the essence of everyday existence, presenting a slice-of-life depiction that feels both relatable yet foreign. The characters face the angst and uncertainties of the contemporary world, making the film a resonant reflection of modern struggles.
To purchase tickets for the second screening of ‘Lost& Found in Cleveland‘ on Wednesday, October 23, 2024, at 4:30 p.m. at Big Newport visit: https://nbff2024.eventive.org/.
Summary
‘Lost& Found in Cleveland‘ is a beautifully crafted instant classic that stands out at the Newport Beach Film Festival. With its engaging narrative and memorable performances, it is one of a few modern movies that I will revisit time and again.
