Good On Paper provides a new look into actress and stand-up comedian Iliza Shlesinger's (Spenser Confidential) life, as she fictionalizes her story for Netflix's newest anti-romantic comedy. The film, which premieres through the streaming platform on June 23, follows Shlesinger's Andrea as she gets into a relationship with the seemingly decent Dennis (Ryan Hansen, Fantasy Island).
Unfortunately, Dennis might only be "good on paper," and it's up to Andrea and her friends to find out what is bubbling under the surface. Hijinks inevitably ensue, all choreographed to hilarious effect by Kimmy Gatewood (GLOW) in her feature film directorial debut.
Gatewood spoke to Screen Rant about how her history onscreen affects her work behind the scenes, and how she collaborated with Shlesinger on their joint adventure.
You have a lot of acting experience. How does that translate to your approach as a director?
Kimmy Gatewood: As an actor, now director, there are little things that [change]. When you're an actor on set, you often don't know what's going on, you don't know where the shot is, you don't know what you're going to be shooting next. And I think I'm able to offer actors small little details, like, "This is what we're shooting." It gives actors confidence and provides a safe space.
And also, I understand how it feels to be an actor; what makes an actor feel safe or give them permission to make certain choices. And I think you can get better performances when you can create that space of play.
Someone else who probably is very good at play is Iliza, but Good On Paper feels like a first for both of you, in terms of writing and directing a full-length feature film. What was that collaboration like?
Kimmy Gatewood: I come from a background of live performance. Early on in my directing career, I would work with comedian - stand up comedians in particular - to take stories and make them into one person shows. So, this was familiar space for me, but obviously not a full feature film of it.
It was a fun experience, because she's been trying to make this movie and tell this story for a long time. And I was so happy to tell a story about this complicated woman; a nuanced story, but also a funny story. It meant a lot to both of us, and I think that it really shines onscreen: the collaboration, the chemistry between the actors, and just the pure joy.
Obviously, Iliza was already cast from the start as herself.
Kimmy Gatewood: The audition was tough.
But for Ryan Hansen, it must be really tough line to walk between being "good on paper," but also not the cliche of a perfect façade hiding an ugly truth.
Kimmy Gatewood: Yeah, yeah. I think, because Iliza actually went through this, she was able to speak a lot to the character. As a director, I and Ryan really appreciated hearing all of the little weird things that he did, and how he could talk his way out of everything and say "absolutely" all the time.
And then with Ryan in particular, I think he for the most part, he's usually playing a pretty good guy on screen. Maybe occasionally there'll be a hint of something, but he's a lovable goof on and off camera, honestly. It was fun to push him into a role like this.
We did have to give him a bad haircut and a fat suit, because he's just too darn handsome. But what he brings is this absolute sincerity and puppy dog eyes, so you're like, "Of course, he's telling the truth." And the fun part for me as a filmmaker was also showing the audience the hints and letting him play that kind of bad guy.
Finally, I love Margot's apocalypse survival kit. What would you have in yours?
Kimmy Gatewood: What a question! Band-Aids, rosé, a couple of batteries, flashlights, a tent - no need for wine glasses, the bottle will do just fine. Maybe some water.
Good On Paper arrives June 23 on Netflix.
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