Spotlight: Simon Rex

SIMON REX | MVFF AWARD That guy. San Francisco native Simon Rex, former MTV VJ, rapper (a.k.a. Dirt Nasty), and actor from What I Like About You and the Scary Movie franchise, whose early adult-film work helped him get started as a model. You know that guy. After Red Rocket—not to mention My Dead Dad (page 64)—so will everyone else.

RED ROCKET US 2021, 128 min Director Sean Baker Filmmaker Sean Baker continues the hot streak he started with indie smashes Tangerine and The Florida Project (MVFF, 2017) with this engrossing tragicomedy about a washed-up former porn actor who returns home to Texas. Simon Rex gives a revelatory performance as Mikey, who years ago followed dreams of stardom to L.A., and now pretends he’s a bigger deal than he actually was. Part character study, part social commentary—the contentious runup to the 2016 presidential election serves as the backdrop—Red Rocket is a brilliantly unflinching portrait of a hustler. It’s a testament to Rex’s sneaky charm that you almost root for this callous schemer. He’s matched by newcomer Suzanna Son, electric as a flirtatious teen Mikey tries to seduce. After its triumphant premiere at the Cannes Film Festival, Baker’s latest exploration of American life is ready to introduce audiences to one of the year’s most fascinating scoundrels. You may despise Mikey, but you’ll never forget him. –Tim Grierson In Person: SIMON REX

SPONSORED BY GRUBER FAMILY FOUNDATION

Saturday, October 9, 6:30pm, Rafael $20 CFI Member / $25 General Film + Reception $30 / $35 Party sponsored by