SUNDANCE: ‘Runaways’ party has everything a festgoer could want

“Sex, drugs and rock ‘n’ roll — what’s not to like about this movie?” said a partygoer at the packed-to-the-gills bash for “The Runaways” — the buzz film of Sundance. Add to that the two teen stars — Kristen Stewart and Dakota Fanning, who are steaming up the snowy sidewalks on Main Street, and you have one hot party. Chronicling the rocky road of the 1970s teen rock group, Stewart channels Joan Jett and Fanning brings Cherie Currie to the big screen.The venue, a former fire station turned museum now transformed into the BING Bar on Main Street, rocked with raw energy: Seventies and ’80s music blared over loud conversation, tidbits were passed around and there was plenty of booze at the bar.
The stars entered through a side door, rushing behind the bar counter followed by a posse of body guards. Stewart and Fanning were esconced in the VIP area surrounded by friends, family and cast members. In fact, security in this area was so tight one young girl couldn’t get past the bouncers. “She’s in the movie” exclaimed a publicist as she guided the film’s Stella Maeve into the crowd. This is one of those moments when you really need a publicist and he or she is right there!
There was plenty to celebrate for Rob Friedman of Summit Entertainment (international rights) and Bob Berney of Apparition (domestic distribution) as they have a monster hit on their hands. Berney recalled an incident the previous night when Stewart and Fanning were barred from a venue. They were headed to Harry O’s Club, to promote the film, but were not allowed in, being under age. They eventually made it on stage long enough to greet the crowd and then were safely escorted out.
Video artist and filmmaker Floria Sigismondi looked jubilant, beaming a 1,000-watt smile. She directed the film from her own script, and revealed that the version screened at Sundance is not yet complete. “I have one month of work to finish it,” the director said.
Seen in the crowded room: Michael Shannon, who plays the role of the abusive manager, Riley Keough, the iconic Joan Jett and legendary Cherie Currie, now a chainsaw sculptress in Los Angeles.
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~ Robstenfan