Mark Steven Johnson: Last News

Courtney Howard It’s a little ironic that the fair-minded maiden in “Love in the Villa” yearns for an authentic, romantic Italian vacation since her fairy tale has been cobbled together by Netflix’s practically patented algorithm. Take one part down-on-her-luck female protagonist, add in a handsome-but-cantankerous gentleman either from or in an enchanting European setting, and mix with a generous splash of high jinks that force them to fall head over heels. Yet the blessed surprise awaiting even the most cynical of audiences of writer-director Mark Steven Johnson’s romantic comedy is that within the manufactured product lies a heartening appeal to its sensible delight.  Elementary school teacher Julie (Kat Graham), who is obsessed with “Romeo and Juliet,” has planned the trip of a lifetime with her boyfriend of four years, Brandon (Raymond Ablack). Their jaunt to Verona, Italy, includes everything from reservations at the finest restaurants to themed tours, all while staying in a villa that faces the balcony that inspired the famous scene in Shakespeare’s play. However, despite factoring in a sliver of spontaneity, Julie did not foresee Brandon getting cold feet and dumping her right before they’re to depart. Rather than mope in Minneapolis, she decides to go on the vacation alone.

Pat Saperstein Deputy EditorChris Huvane, a partner and manager at Hollywood firm Management 360 and former magazine editor and PR executive, died Sunday night. He was 47.The cause was an apparent suicide, according to Deadline.