Jesse Zwick '08 (Writer & Director, ABOUT ALEX, PARENTHOOD)

By Stacey Collins

About Alex, opens on August 8th, is writer-director Jesse Zwick’s (08/09) feature film debut. The rookie filmaker managed to pull together an impressive ensamble cast (Jason Ritter, Max Greenfield, Aubrey Plaza, Jane Levy, Maggie Grace, Nate Parker, and Max Minghella). As a firsttime director who took bold moves, Zwick reveals himself as an insightful writer/director with a natural comedic instinct. This poignant dramady tells a story about college friends reunited for the weekend after one of them attempts suicide. Old resentments and romances resurface, as the group discovers new things about each other in a secluded home in the Catskills, despite years staying connected by the ease of social media.

Lisa Beach '80 (Casting Director)

By Stacey Collins

I wish I had been in Cambridge last weekend. Lisa Beach '80 spoke at the Science Center for a Harvardwood Arts First event, and those in attendance had a real treat. Yes, she's having an amazingly successful career in Hollywood, but it's her liveliness and warmth that could charm the socks off anyone. And her integrity inspires. In an industry known for its survival of the fittest mentality, spending time with Ms. Beach is a delight.

Nick Stoller '98 (Writer & Director, FORGETTING SARAH MARSHALL, GET HIM TO THE GREEK)

By Stacey Collins

It was a treat to interview Nick Stoller '98. A man with a funny bone, he's also had the smarts to hone those skills to advance his writing and directing aspirations. These are exceptional times for this young filmmaker. His debut as a feature director happens this month; FORGETTING SARAH MARSHALL, starring Kristen Bell and Jason Segel, and produced by Judd Apatow, will be released by Universal on April 18th.

Marshall Lewy '99 (Writer, Director, & Editor)

By Stacey Collins

Marshall Lewy '99 is a name to remember. He wrote and directed his debut feature film BLUE STATE starring Academy Award winner Anna Paquin and Breckin Meyer. BLUE STATE premiered at the 2007 Tribeca Film Festival and is being distributed worldwide by MGM.