Hollywood is known for its movie premieres, but Overture Films' preview Monday night for its global espionage flick, Traitor, was technically not one of them, despite a healthy amount of pomp. Although Traitor's official premiere is set for today in New York, Overture hosted a V.I.P. screening at the Egyptian Theatre for L.A. industry folk where, unlike at a traditional movie premiere, there was no press line.
A reception in the Egyptian Theatre courtyard followed the screening. “We didn’t go dramatic on the party because the film is such a fantastic theatrical experience. We wanted to throw a great outdoor summer party, underneath the stars in the middle of the summer—you really can only do that in Southern California, you can’t do that all over the country,” said Tonya Toone, who oversaw the event for Overture Films. Toone worked with Wendy Creed on the production.
Red and amber lighting illuminated the courtyard at the Egyptian, where red seating surrounded tree planters. Lanterns hung throughout the courtyard, drawing guests' eyes upward, while intricately patterned gobos lent a lacy look. Red floral centerpieces highlighted the red seat cushions and black tables placed near buffet tables that served Asian-inspired, classic American, and California-French cuisines. Dessert buffets served an assortment of sweets such as mini pies, cookies, and brownies.
A near-capacity crowd of about 500 filled the Egyptian, with the director, producers, and cast members including Don Cheadle in attendance; film industry and media folks rounded out the guests, who finished trickling out around midnight. "We really wanted to share the film with the entertainment community, and have a great party to celebrate it," said Toone, who is now gearing up for the official premiere, which will include the traditional red carpet and press line.
