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Introducing you to a new filmmaker this week on BEHIND THE LENS – writer\/director JOSH LOEB – who makes his feature film directorial debut IN SPITE OF OURSELVES, after a 20-year stint as a restaurateur! \u00a0He went to film school, but then pursued a career in food and restaurants – which are still going strong, by the way. \u00a0And now, in his 40s, he has wended his way back to film with this sweet charmer, IN SPITE OF OURSELVES.<\/p>\n
As we all know, love comes easy (sometimes) \u2014 relationships don\u2019t. The film follows Hannah, a determined Portland baker, and Archie, an up-and-coming Los Angeles comedian with a tendency to dodge commitment. What begins as instant, undeniable chemistry turns into two blissful weeks together before real life pulls them in opposite directions. As distance, doubt, and their own messy insecurities take hold, they are forced to confront whether what they shared was fleeting or something worth holding on to.<\/p>\n
As their relationship develops, they navigate laughter and tears, joy and fear, as each is challenged to show up fully for the other. Archie sets aside career ambitions to care for Hannah, while she learns to trust and embrace support in her own life. Their connection grows in a space both intimate and expansive, revealing the courage it takes to build a bond that is honest, messy, and deeply human.<\/p>\n
IN SPITE OF OURSELVES stars Conor Leslie and Brett Dier as Hannah and Archie, respectively. \u00a0But as good as they are, the supporting cast also wows us – Mo Mandel, Alyssa Limperis, Zara Casebere, Britian Seibert, and the wonderful Glenn Morshower.<\/p>\n
From a production standpoint, Josh has also surrounded himself with top-notch artisans, including DP Gabe Mayhan, editors Diandra Kendall Luzon and Joel Plotch, and composer Jim Fairchild, among others.<\/p>\n
The film is character-driven with strong production values and some nice romantic moments of \u201cwill they, won\u2019t they\u201d, which are showcased with lovely montages.<\/p>\n
I had the chance to speak with JOSH LOEB last week, just days before the film opened on Friday the 16th at the Nuart in Los Angeles. \u00a0As you\u2019re about to hear, in this exclusive interview, Josh discusses his transition from a twenty-year career in the food industry to directing his first feature film, and explains how storytelling connects both culinary arts and cinema. He details the collaborative process behind the film, highlighting the importance of his ensemble cast, cinematographer Gabe Mayhan, and his editors, as well as composer Jim Fairchild and his music supervisor, who worked some musical miracles. \u00a0We also discuss character development, such as Hannah\u2019s vulnerability regarding her hearing loss, and the authenticity required for Archie’s stand-up comedy. \u00a0And let’s not forget the food in the film! \u00a0You also get to hear about the real-life romance between Conor Leslie and Brett Dier that not only developed thanks to this film, but led to their marriage. \u00a0Ultimately, Josh expresses his passion for directing and his desire to continue telling meaningful stories through film and television.<\/p>\n
A sweet and lovely film filled with heartfelt tissue moments, and an engaging interview with writer\/director JOSH LOEB make for an irresistible combination. \u00a0So take a listen as JOSH LOEB talks all things IN SPITE OF OURSELVES.<\/p>\n
If you\u2019re in the LA area, you can see IN SPITE OF OURSELVES at the Nuart Theatre and then hit up one of Josh\u2019s restaurants in Santa Monica. \u00a0The film is also playing in Portland, which is where it was shot.<\/p>\n
Enjoy!<\/p>\n
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