Title: Paper Heart (2009)Starring: Charlyne Yi, Michael Cera, Jake M. Johnson
Directed By: Nicholas Jasenovec
Paper Heart is a really clever reality-bending drama from actress/comedienne/writer Charlyne Yi and co-writer/director Nicholas Jasenovec. In it, Yi plays a fictional version of herself who doesn't believe in the existence of love. So she sets out to make a documentary on the subject with her friend, director Nicholas Jasenovec (played onscreen by Jake M. Johnson). Throughout their adventures, fictional Charlyne meets fictional Michael Cera (who is, of course, played by actor and real-life boyfriend-at-the-time Michael Cera). As their relationship begins to bloom, the ever-present camera crew threatens to destroy their love before it even begins.
Sounds a little confusing, doesn't it? It isn't. The whole thing is presented as a straight-up documentary, making it very easy to stick with. The plot is fun, if a little bit predictable; and the performances here are top-notch. Yi is a LOT of fun to get to know, and her character here is very relatable and funny. And Michael Cera does Michael Cera as no one else could (which isn't saying much, I know). It's only a matter of time before writers stop including quirky, witty, skinny white guys. And when that time comes, Michael Cera better have an ace up his sleeve. He better be hiding a totally unique, as-yet-unseen-from-him character somewhere in his boyish cuteness and squeaky voice.
But back to this movie. I liked it. A lot. Seriously. The animated paper puppet sequences were the standouts for me, and the movie wisely ends on the funniest of them. I'd definitely seek this out if you're looking for a semi-romantic indie with something fairly new to bring to the table. Recommended.
Score: 8/10
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