Meeting Ms. Leigh

While attending the 2023 Marina del Rey Film Festival, I had the privilege of viewing the film "Meeting Ms. Leigh" (Grand Jury Prize Winner for Best Film). From the opening scene to the final credits, I truly enjoyed this charming and intuitive love story. Similar to "Island in the Sun", "Meeting Ms. Leigh" focuses on the life and aspirations of a charismatic African American man named Carter. Looking for a muse to stimulate the writing process for his new screenplay, Carter meets Amber, an older white woman, who is escaping a failing marriage. As their intellectual and sensual frolic becomes something more grim, decision have to be made. And, from that point on, the film becomes dangerously amusing. Due to the wonderful storytelling, amazing music and powerful acting performances, it is hard to believe that "Meeting Ms. Leigh" is R. S. Veira's first feature film. But it is and he has a true talent for the art form which promises to make his future in the entertaintmnet industy, extrmeily bright.

"Meeting Ms. Leigh" is a pensive and passionate romantic drama about a young writer's weekend affair with an enigmatic older woman in Santa Monica. Landen Amos and Jeanine are amazing as Carter and Amber-their chemistry is off the charts. The movie dives into some pretty taboo topics but balances the heavy stuff with lighthearted humor, especially thanks to Rich Morrow's hilarious Mitch. The Santa Monica setting looks gorgeous on screen, adding to the whole vibe. This is director and writer R. S. Veira's first feature film, and he's nailed it. His vision really makes the characters and story shine. You can tell everyone involved put their heart into it. If you love movies with deep, character-driven stories and a mix of drama and humor, "Meeting Ms. Leigh" is a must-see. I can't wait to see what this team does next!

You might be reminded of The Graduate while watching Meeting Ms. Leigh: A stymied young man seeks inspiration with an older woman, resulting in a coming-of-spiritual-age encounter. The screenwriter refreshes this traditional theme with surprises touching on faith, morality and the triumph of learning to love freely....all handled with a light and sensual touch. Prepare for a powerful, quiet story featuring delicate cinematography, exquisitely earnest dialogue, and a score that complements the ultimately joyful theme without overshadowing it.

With this award-winning debut, Veira is a directorial force to keep an eye on!

My wife and I had the privilege of watching Meeting Ms. Leigh at the Marina Del Rey Film Festival. Later on we found out of its release on Apple TV and just had to watch it for a second time. The film was so relatable, so relevant, it had us both engaged the entire time. There is joy, laughter, romantic tension, heartbreak, frustration, and relief. All the great qualities for a late night, movie night at home. Upon watching this film, I quickly recognized it to be one of Los Angeles' modern day classics with LA's beautiful scenery complimenting Director R. S Veira's storyline. I recommend this movie 10/10. Congratulations to the entire Cast/Crew and Director R. S. Veira on winning Best Film Award at the 2023 Marina Del Rey Film Festival!

Loved this film, intense dialogue, gorgeous views, great soundtrack. The two leads had real chemistry and charm. Their conversations were deep and meaningful, but also had an element of playfulness. It's hard to write believable dialog, this film nails it and leaves me thinking a lot about many of the issues they discussed.

The SoCal scenery was beautifully captured, the director has a good eye. I also enjoyed the music, the soundtrack complimented the action without dominating any scene.

I loved the shout out to film history as Carter talked about the influence of Preston Sturges on his writing.