Down to Earth

FRI 5/14
For the second time in two weeks, Overland Park is the site of a small independent film’s first theatrical engagement in the United States. The Last Place on Earth is the creation of triple-threat James Slocum, who wrote, directed and produced the slight yet occasionally charming film that opens Friday at the Glenwood Arts (9575 Metcalf). The film laudably follows a multiracial cast — including the lovers at its core — without making unnecessary noise about their color. Top-billed Tisha Campbell- Martin (the mom on ABC’s My Wife & Kids) plays a feisty ex-litigator who hitches a ride through the Sierra Nevadas with a disenchanted suit played by Twin Peaks actor Dana Ashbrook. Along for the ride are her one-eared dog and an urn containing the ashes of his late mother, played in the opening scene by a shockingly deglamorized Phyllis Diller. Slocum, who plans to attend several opening-weekend screenings, says he’s proud he didn’t make the white-black romance about the couple’s race. “That’s the way the world is moving, isn’t it?” he says. “For the younger demographic, race isn’t that big a deal, for the most part. So the movie’s a little edgy but easy for people to put their arms around. I’m optimistic people will respond to it.” For more information, call the Glenwood at 913-642-4404.— Steve Walker

Ten Dollars Gets You …
The Young Democrats want your money, honey.

THU 5/13

The Young Democrats of Greater Kansas City need your money. However, they’re willing to give you music and a party in exchange for opening your wallet. The young Dems host a fund-raiser from 5 to 9 p.m. Thursday at Harling’s Upstairs (3941 Main). For ten bucks at the door, you get four local bands: Dan Anderson, Fighting Chance, the Wilson Project and Eudora. The money goes to the Young Democrats of America’s national convention, scheduled for May 21 and 22 at Kansas City’s Westin Crown Center. Plus, we happen to know a cute Irish bartender who works at the club, and rumor has it he might be serving up the drinks. Call 816-561-0274 for more information. — Annie Fischer