“I can’t go back to who I was. I’m different now. I sing.”
Time to celebrate a neglected gem of a film – with a beautiful version of Todd Rundgren’s classic ballad “Hello It’s Me” – performed by none other than the great character Actor Paul Giamatti!
It’s The Karaoke Movie “Duets!”
Yes, “Duets” is the best karaoke movie ever made! Of course, was there another one? No matter! It’s an entertaining movie with a great cast, including Huey Lewis, Gwyneth Paltrow, Maria Bello, Paul Giamatti and Andre Braugher!
First, here’s the trailer for this terrific gem of a film:
Yes, There ARE “Professional Karaoke Hustlers!”
Here is the plot of “Duets”: A professional karaoke hustler reconnects with his daughter, while a bored suburban businessman turns outlaw karaoke singer! Karaoke has never been so complicated!
“Duets” is a classic ensemble movie, with a large cast telling a number of different stories, all intersecting at Karaoke events…
Scott Speedman and Mario Bello are among the terrific cast…and here is some casting news: Brad Pitt was originally signed on to be in the film, but after his engagement to Gwyneth Paltrow was called off, he dropped out of the movie.
The film was directed by Bruce Paltrow, Gwyneth’s father. It was the only time they worked together.
The film isn’t perfect, and the tone is a bit off at times, but there is genuine chemistry between Paltrow and Huey Lewis, who is a really good Actor…
Here is some fun trivia: singer Michael Buble is one of the karaoke singers in the final contest at the end of the movie!
Paul Giamatti Does Todd Rundgren Proud!
I am a huge fan of Paul Giamatti – great roles in “Sideways”, “American Spendor” and of course as “Pig Vomit” in Howard Stern’s “Private Parts” among many many others…but he has a great voice too! Here is Giamatti’s rendition of “Hello It’s Me” from the “Duets” soundtrack:
Bravo, Paul! Todd Rundgren should be proud of his version of the song…of course, this is just the tip of my:
“Todd Iceberg!”
The “Wizard And True Star” is going stronger than ever after a 40 year career! Todd Rundgren has spent the last year going “Global”, with one of his best albums ever!
Todd has been on a non-stop worldwide tour to support his latest CD, which you can read all about here – and see a great montage of his 30 years on David Letterman!
Todd has inspired many fans – and fellow musicians over the years, including one creative filmmaker who took one of his catch songs from the 90’s and make it a LEGO movie!
Check out “Espresso” done with Legos by clicking here:
http://johnrieber.com/2015/07/15/lego-todd-rundgren-his-caffeinated-hit-espresso-gets-all-jacked-up/
And finally, I recently re-discovered Todd’s Cyberia event in London!
Yes, I have a signed copy of the original VHS of the concert, which you can read all about right here:
So check out “Duets” and enjoy Paul Giamatti’s great rendition of Todd’s most popular hit!
