Question 1

How did Laura Dern's answering machine help her land the role of Connie?

Accepted Answer

Director Joyce Chopra knew Laura Dern was right for the role when she heard 'Is That the Way You Look?' by James Taylor playing on Dern's answering machine. Unknown to Dern, Taylor was the movie's music director and had suggested that song for the soundtrack.

Question 2

Which two sources inspired the film 'Smooth Talk'?

Accepted Answer

The film was based on Joyce Carol Oates' short story 'Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been?' and director Joyce Chopra's previous documentary 'Girls at 12', which followed three girls' everyday lives and influenced Connie's characterization.

Question 3

What East Coast imagery influenced the look of the film, despite being shot in Northern California?

Accepted Answer

The look was infused with East Coast imagery based on director Joyce Chopra and writer Tom Cole's home of Kent, Connecticut, and photographer Joel Meyerowitz's book 'Cape Light' (1979) of Cape Cod, Massachusetts. A hallway scene was modeled after one of Meyerowitz's photos.

Question 4

At what age did Laura Dern play the 15-year-old Connie?

Accepted Answer

Laura Dern was 18 years old when the movie came out, playing a 'mature' 15-year-old.

Question 5

Which film festivals and awards recognized 'Smooth Talk'?

Accepted Answer

The film was recognized at the Los Angeles Film Critics Association Awards (1985), Independent Spirit Awards (1986), New York Film Festival (2020), and Toronto International Film Festival (1985).

Smooth Talk

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