Paper Heart MPAA Rating: PG-13 Entertainment: +2 1/2 Content: +1

Main actors: Charlyne Yi, Michael Cera, Jake M. Johnson. Directed by Nicholas Jasonovec; Co-written by Nicholas Jasonovec and Charlyne Yi

FILM SYNOPSIS: This documentary follows 20-something stand-up comedian Charlyne Yi (herself) on a search for understanding love. Director and co-writer Nicholas Jasonovec (Jake M. Johnson) embark on a journey across the United States, interviewing couples of all ages and from all walks of life. Charlyne has never had a boyfriend and fears she may never experience love. . Early into the project she meets a friend of Nicholas, actor Michael Cera (himself) (Juno), After a rough start, Charlyne slowly warms up to Michael, and he sometimes travels with her and Nicholas.

Honest and funny, Paper Heart won a screen writing award at the 2009 Sundance Film Festival and was nominated for the Grand Jury Prize. It will probably be more popular with those interested in the art of making films than with the general public.

PREVIEW REVIEW: Charlyne learns to open up as the camera rolls during private conversations with Nicholas. He treats her as a little sister but for the project to succeed he occasionally struggles to keep her focused on their commitment. When a psychic predicts Charlyne’s current crush will not last, Nicholas consoles her that the woman is a fraud and she should forget anything said by her. Their cross-country stops include the Wedding Chapel in Las Vegas, where they attend the wedding of an elderly man who admits he doesn’t know his young bride’s last name. They interview bikers, a gay couple, a romance novelist, a college professor and a psychic, among others. Some of the interviews tell very touching love stories, but the many views and definitions of marriage offered confuse Charlyne even more.

The PG-13 rating is based on some crude language, but there is no violence, sex or drug use. Of the many couples interviewed, few implied their union was holy, but most felt it was a life commitment. Some regretted they had let “the good one” get away for no real reason. Paper Heart may not give you a clear definition of love, but it does clearly express its importance.

Preview Reviewer: Mary Draughon
Distributor: Overture Films