What's Next For 'What Goes Up' Stars?

While the producers of 'What Goes Up' are still exploring options, the movie has been keeping pace as the DVD release continues to earn new reviews. The most recent review by Kelsey Zukowski at The Celebrity Cafe, which followed Britt Hayes' review at the Examiner, that says director Jonathan Glatzer could "easily have a career among other indie darlings."

As Glatzer is already working on another project with writer Robert Lawson, we thought it might be a good idea to catch up with some of the stars from What Goes Up.

Steve Coogan has been cast in three films, including Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief; Eddie the Eagle; and Murder in Samarkand. However, the film that his fans are talking about is Alan Partridge: The Movie since Coogan mentioned it last May.

Hilary Duff has several movies in the making, but the role that seems to be capturing some attention is a multi-episode role on Gossip Girl as Olivia Burke, a movie star who is attending NYU to attempt to get a typical college experience. The first episode featuring Duff is scheduled for Oct. 5, according to the Examiner.

Josh Peck has been cast in a remake of the 1984 movie Red Dawn. He will reportedly play the role of younger brother Matt Eckert, which was originally played by Charlie Sheen. The film is slated to start shooting in September.

Olivia Thirlby will appear in the recently completed films New York, I Love You; and Margaret. She is also slated for The Manners of Madness and Parts Per Billion, both in development. In the interim, Thirlby has taken to the stage with Chris Pine and Chris North in Beau Willimon's "Farragut North." It runs through July 26.

Molly Shannon is still making headlines with Kath & Kim, which is the U.S. version of the hit Australian comedy about a dysfunctional mother and daughter relationship. While NBC announced there will not be a second season in May, Season 1 seems to be finding a new fan base since it became available on DVD this week.

Richard Vission Remixes "Any Other Day"

Grammy-nominated remixer/producer Richard Vission has been rocking dance floors around the world with his prolific remixes of Weezer, RadioHead, Timbaland, Prince, Lady Gaga, and Static Revenger. Most recently, he produced a radio remix of "Any Other Day" by Hilary Duff.

"Any Other Day" is an original single by Hilary Duff, which Robert Lawson wrote with her and Jonathan Glatzer. You can learn more about creation of the song here.

"Any Other Day" - Richard Vission Radio Remix Teaser

Although the remix is not currently available as part of the What Goes Up Movie Soundtrack, the original version is continuing to perform well in a growing number of markets in the United States. Amherst Records is expected to announce its intentions for an international release in the days ahead.

Any Other Day Continues To Earn Airplay

Hilary Duff’s single, Any Other Day, from the What Goes Up soundtrack continues to expand its airplay on stations across the country. Since being released in April, dozens of fans have promoted it on YouTube and supported the song with purchases on iTunes and Amazon.

The seductive meaningful song, which lends some final thoughts to the indy, What Goes Up, adds a mix of faith and uneasiness as it relates to tragedy. Like the film, the song asks we consider the events in life that shape us — the obstacles we must overcome in order to grow — and what they might mean. Or maybe, it asks if it means anything at all as we move toward a ‘higher place,’ as alluded to in Duff’s spellbinding vocals. Here's a rundown of new stations currently playing the single:

Any Other Day - New Airplay

KQID  Alexandria LA
WWKZ  Tupelo MS
KISR  Fort Smith AR
KCRS  Odessa TX
KIXY  San Angelo TX
WJMX  Florence SC
KUJ   Tri Cities WA
MusicChoice Satellite
WSTW Wilmington DE (test spin)

In addition to "Any Other Day,” the soundtrack presents a eclectic blend of artists. Included in the mix are never released songs by Innocent Bystanders, including "Kidz (Who Never Grew Up)," " Never Comin Back," and "Teenage Moments."

The soundtrack also includes the UK's all-girl band Electrelane with four tracks -- "You Make Me Weak At The Knees," "Cut And Run," "Two For Joy," and "Blue Straggler." Rounding out the mix is a 1999 digitally remastered version of David Bowie's hit "Heroes."

Other artists include Roddy Bottum, Al Sgro & The Brendan Hines, Jeremy Wall, and Anthony "Tony" Miranda. Miranda is also one of the three executive producers associated with Three Kings, which produced the film.

Bottum's contributions to the score have been cited by critics as deepening the emotion throughout the film. Bottum has said it's his finest score for any film. We hope you agree.

What Goes Up Ends Initial Theatrical Run

What Goes Up, a film about a morally challenged New York reporter (Steve Coogan) who learns life lessons from a group of dysfunctional students (Hilary Duff, Josh Peck, Olivia Thirlby), has completed its initial theatrical run in theaters, which was capped off at the Breckenridge Festival of Film last Friday. The film played to a very receptive full house.

"We're not ready to close out the possibilities of a second theatrical run or pursuing more film festivals in the United States even with the DVD being released on June 16," said James Hoke, executive producer. "We're also weighing our options to show the film outside of the United States, where fans have been extremely supportive. Some of these decisions will depend on the initial DVD sales, but we really want to expand the release and we still have another contest promise to fulfill."

Fans of many primary cast members have played an important role since the movie was first shown at 3rd Annual Buffalo Niagara Film Festival. At the theatrical premiere on May 28, fan art from two film promotions greeted guests at the event.

The VIP Premiere Loop from the Pacific Design Center

In addition to fan support, Olivia Thirlby has taken some media interviews to help the film. The most recent was published at Alloy.com. In the interview, which includes photos, Thirlby also speaks very highly of Hilary Duff.

"Working with Hilary was wonderful. I can't speak highly enough of her," Thirlby told Alloy.com "She's a very cool, very kind and incredibly genuine person in every respect."

On June 16, What Goes Up will be available on DVDs everywhere. Check back for updates and links on Tuesday.

Hilaryfan.com Contest Winners Announced

As a thank you to the members of Hilaryfan.com for their early support, we hosted an exclusive contest for their members to win signed What Goes Up movie DVDs, soundtrack CDs, and posters. The contest asked members to make something connected to the film, fan forum, and otherwise demonstrate they were the ultimate Hilary Duff fans. Many of the entries captured their passion and creativity as ultimate fans.

HIlaryfan.com/What Goes Up Contest Winners
First — "Hilary Fan Video" by Nick

"We asked members of Hilaryfan.com to make something or do something that demonstrates they are the ultimate fan and this entry clearly did that," said James Hoke, executive producer. "We thought it was amazing that his entire bedroom shows his love for her and he was willing to share it."

Second — "What Goes Up Calendar" by Marte T.



The producers felt that the full calendar demonstrated some exceptional design skills, and wove in the entire cast beautifully. To view the complete calendar, please visit the link here.

Third — "What Goes Up Online Magazine" by Ric


Hilary Duff Online has always been a graphically compelling site for Hilary Duff fans, but the What Goes Up online magazine (and lead-in to his Web site) is a remarkable summary of the film, including a statement from fans. Appreciated!

Fourth — "What Goes Up Fan Blog" by Rodolfo Gual Gurrola (Torreon, Mexico)


Rodolfo created a What Goes Up fan blog and showcased his collection of Hilary Duff memorabilia. You can read the blog here.

Fifth — "What Goes Up Banner" by Caroline K.


Artfully designed with an original look, Caroline presented a unique treatment for the movie poster. You can see it posted here and a larger version here.

Honorable Mentions

"Movie Poster" by Logan from Newark, Ohio


"Screen Saver/Power Point" by Josh


"Supporting Hilary" by Silvia C. (Mexcio)


"What Goes Up" poem by Angela M. (Toronto, Canada)

What makes a great movie?
Hilarious jokes that make up a comedy? Hilaryfan.com members with their ongoing support that spread the news?
An excellent portrayal by an actor?
Those are just three things

Great movies aren't easy to come across
Oh my gosh, have I ever found an excellent one
Even though I love anything and everything Hilary Duff...
Something about this movie makes it all the more 'awesome'

Unless you're crazy...
Party up - What Goes Up rocks!

"Hilary Exclusively" by 28symptoms


These submissions will be permanently featured here and included along with art from other fans and promotions as a part of a production notebook being compiled by The Insider Team. A special thanks to the Hilaryfan.com for allowing the contest and your continued support of the film that Pete Hammon of Hollywood.com calls "darkly funny" and a "2009 sleeper."

Behind The Film 'What Goes Up'

For Jonathan Glatzer, winning the best film award for 'Prix Fixe,' a 28-minute short released in 1997, must seem a lifetime ago on the day before his full length feature film What Goes Up is shown at the Pacific Design Center before opening in six major cities.

Back then, he had directed Oscar nominee Douglas McGrath and Tim Blake Nelson. This time around, he directed a cast of brilliant performers including: Steve Coogan, Hilary Duff, Olivia Thirlby, Josh Peck, Molly Shannon, and a dozen other young and talented actors.

"Being around this young cast, I felt younger and much older at the same time," recalls Glatzer. "Younger because they brought an energy and commitment that has not been dampened by cynicism; older because sometimes I had to act like the mature one on the set. But only when I absolutely had to."

According to Glatzer, the script, which he originally worked on with Robert Lawson as a stage play, had a long history of what some might call moments of maturity. While it attracted champions, the number of characters and locations called for a bigger budget than many producers and studios would have considered from a first-time director.

And then, even after the financing was locked, it became even more challenging than Glatzer expected. The result, two weeks before principal photography, was a tight budget and fewer shooting days. It took some additional tenancy for the first-time executive producers at Three Kings Productions. And, of course, the cast.

"It all came down to having a truly great cast, talented and deeply cool, to make it possible for us to accomplish this film," says Glatzer. "When your budget has you by the edge of a knife, your cast makes the difference. Their performances were all wonderful."

The cast originally came together in a few short months, with Coogan being among the first to meet with Glatzer after reading the script. Duff, who was recommended by John Cusack, came on after noting a personal connection between herself and Lucy. And Shannon joined after hearing how she had enamored Glatzer during a screening of Mike White’s “Year of the Dog.” He still insists she should have been nominated for an Oscar.

"When I saw Olivia Thirlby’s audition tape, I was completely blown away; I still am," he said. "And Josh Peck, who was originally cast as the character Fenster, is one of the best, if not the best, actors of his generation."

Nearly everyone agrees. Many reviewers, even those who have been hard on the film, have given props to the performers. Even more so than reviewers, the film's first outing at the Buffalo Niagara Film Festival won the "Audience Award."

"I think they walked away with what I wanted them to ... love for the characters, but the kind of love you might give begrudgingly because they are not without flaws," he said. "Just like this film, there is no ‘wrapped with a ribbon’ resolution or perfect plans or moments of unadulterated triumph."

Glatzer says that if there is any message, then it must be exactly that. There is pain, he says, not only in loss, but in every interaction between us all. He believes that is one of the reasons we look for heroes; each of us is trying to find ideas that are larger than ourselves, even if that sometimes means disposing of inconvenient truths.

It happens in everyday life, he says, and on the grand scale. It happens with groups of young people, in their teens, just like those brought to life in the film. Sometimes, kids have one adult in their lives who shines. But if they die, it leaves a crater in their lives that needs to be filled with whatever seems within easy reach and most convenient.

Glatzer began his career in theater as a director, staging productions at such venues as the Oxford Playhouse in England, Shakespeare Theatre in Washington D.C., and The Ensemble Studio Theatre in New York. He then moved on to work as a writer for Touchstone Television, Fox Television, Warner Brothers, Good Machine, and Industry Entertainment.

In addition to film, there is another interesting footnote on Glatzer's resume. He was an alternate for the U.S. men's fencing team for the 2000 Summer Olympics that was held in Sydney, Australia.

Glatzer will also be featured this Friday in an extended First Look video.

Anthony Miranda Talks What Goes Up

Probably the most common question I've been asked since our first public showing at The Buffalo Niagara Film Festival was "if you could do anything over again, what would you do?" I never have an answer, because I do not believe in doing anything over.

We learn from every event in our life and everything happens for a reason. To do over any one thing would change the series of events that have occurred and would affect this wonderful journey we are traveling.

I mean, why would I want to miss out on the amazing experience at The Buffalo Niagara Film Festival? It far exceeded my expectations to say the least. I never expected a proclamation from Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown that declared May 8 as Anthony Miranda Day. But he did. And it was overwhelming.

The best way I can describe it is to say “you really had to be there." Yeah, I know it's cliche, but because of all the support from Buffalo we not only sold out one screen — but two screens!!! When that happened, all of the local news channels covered the event. We had a VIP list that ran up well into the hundreds. The positive energy in the lobby was evident to everyone. And what was really hours, felt like mere minutes. I will remember it for the rest of my life and that's not easily said.

I've been a professional musician my entire life and taught percussion on the college level since 1980. I was 22 years old when I first taught college, and taught privately before that. I've had many unforgettable moments in my life, performing with Gladys Knight, Johnny Mathis, Robert Goulet, Milton Berle, Natalie Cole, and Madonna. Add to that several hundreds of recordings for television and film over the past 25 years.

The difference between being an executive producer and a musician or composer is tremendous. When in the recording studio working on music for film, you are one component in the entire movie.

The music in any film is clearly very important but is just one piece in this complex movie structure. As executive producer, you have to deal with every component from beginning to end. We’re lucky to have had James Hoke on board. He made it easy!

Of course, I had the opportunity to enjoy the best of both worlds. The music selection was mainly chosen by Jonathan Glatzer. However, when composing, for example, the rooftop cue, I had some ideas in mind. So I recorded them in the studio and sent the wav files over to Jonathan.

We fine tuned the tracks based on what he was looking for and then repeated this process with the marching drum cadences as well. Of course, composer Roddy Bottum did the underscore for the film. Working with him was amazing. He is such a great talent and a wonderful person. Things just flowed and happened.

One of my other favorite moments, working on the film, was the feeling of the final wrap of the production. It happened on a Saturday morning, after a very long, cold night of shooting.

I was able to enjoy the moment with my partners James Hoke and Joe Nahas; my daughter Lindsay Maureen was there too. For the soundtrack, there was another one.

It was when “I heard the news” (pun intended) that Hilary Duff made the commitment to record “Any Other Day” for the film and soundtrack. David Parker and Lenny Silver of Amherst Records worked so hard in making the entire soundtrack a successful reality. I am very grateful for them believing so strongly in What Goes Up.

I am also grateful for those talks I enjoyed with Molly Shannon on set and that warm smile Hilary always seems to carry around with her. And, I’m also grateful that I had an opportunity to use my Fingerstix invention for the soundtrack. They really create a whole new dimension in sound and creative expression, which was important for a film like this. I included a link to an old clip in this post to give you an idea of what can be done with them. Enjoy it!

All in all, the entire event has been like riding one of the highest, fastest roller coasters around. There are some amazingly fast ups and downs, thrusts left and right. You really cannot predict any of it, but you always want to get back in line and do it again!

We’re lucky, I suppose, because even though it felt like a down a couple days ago, we’re racing back up again. For that, I credit the genius of James Hoke. He keeps the challenges to the minimum and solutions to the maximum. On any independent film, you really need that to keep it together. He keeps it together. Him, and the fans.

I’m grateful to be able be able to share a little slice of my experience with the film and soundtrack with all the people who visit the production. Thank you all for jumping on the roller coaster with us. To me, you are the best!

First Look: Hilary Duff in What Goes Up

After working in local theater plays and television commercials, Hilary Duff gained fame for playing Lizzie McGuire, which quickly became the flagship for the Disney Channel. After the hit show fulfilled 65 episodes, Duff went on to a successful movie career in Cheaper by the Dozen with Steve Martin and A Cinderella Story with Chad Michael Murray; and launched a successful pop music career with three platinum albums. She has also topped the Billboard 200 numerous times, and recent hits that include "With Love,” "Stranger," and "Reach Out."

In What Goes Up, Duff plays Lucy, a teenager who comes across as a narcissistic seductress attempting to win over the much older character of Campbell Babbitt (Steve Coogan) but eventually reveals much more depth than the way people perceive her. She also recorded the hit song “Any Other Day,” which Robert Lawson wrote with her and Jonathan Glatzer, for the film.

In this clip, complete with two scenes with Steve Coogan, Duff talks about how challenging it can be to be perceived one way by others while being a different and deeper person inside. It’s a quality she says she shares with Lucy despite being completely different people with very different backgrounds.

First Look: Hilary Duff in What Goes Up

Duff was originally encouraged to take up acting classes alongside her older sister, Haylie, who is also an actress and singer. Today, she leads a successful multifaceted career and has made guest star appearances on several television shows, including Law & Order: Special Victims Unit. She has recently completed several independent films that include War, Inc., Greta, and Stay Cool.

Duff, who has always been a strong philanthropist, is currently busy supporting AIDS Walk New York on May 17. She is also cast as Bonnie Parker in the upcoming The Story of Bonnie and Clyde (2010) and recently accepted a starring role in Provinces of Night (2010) with Val Kilmer and Faye Dunaway.

Behind The Music Of "Any Other Day"

"On a day like any other day -- a chill wind, the promise of Autumn… the sky was so blue you could almost taste it." — from the theatrical piece, "but the rain is full of ghosts," by Robert Lawson.

"In 2002, I wrote [those opening lines for a] theater piece in reaction to 9/11," says Robert Lawson. "So flash forward to Jonathan [Glatzer] and I. We had been talking about a credit sequence song, and the idea was to model it after the ‘Countdown’ song in the movie. I had this feeling that it shouldn’t be quite so peppy … after all, the Challenger explosion was pretty grim. But who wants grim music for the last taste of a movie like this?"

And so began the task of finding the right balance for "Any Other Day." The basic elements were written in the course of a single afternoon, with the hope it would be performed. Yet, like so many elements of so many movies, Lawson, a Renaissance veteran in arts and entertainment, had no expectations.

"My work has been done in scattered locations, mostly on the East Coast, periodically off B’way in New York, and one at the Kennedy Center," Lawson said. "A number of my scripts are published by Playscripts, Inc. and I also spend as much time as I can abroad. I teach regularly in and around Vienna (where my performance text Kuhfangfederblech premiered), tackling such esoteric topics as narrative strategies, framing and abstraction, and using digital media. As for songs, I’ve written well over a hundred, mostly for theater pieces you’ve never heard of, but I did receive a 'Meet the Composer Grant' for my efforts. "

"Any Other Day"
as originally written by Robert Lawson

On a day like any other day,
Sky so blue it could take your breath away.
And what could ever fall apart?
On a day like it is today --

Kind of day you could climb to the top of the world,
And see your life unfurl
Before your very eyes.
But when it falls apart, then you realize --

This is all a countdown,
To a higher place,
Countdown into some outer space.

Maybe it's a day when the angels will come to sing
Or maybe it's a day when the devil comes to bring a fate
You couldn't imagine in your wildest dreams.

Countdown
To a higher place,
Countdown into some outer space.

Never mind the smoke and mirrors left behind you.
Don't you go - there's nothing there to really bind you.
Just let go and know your destiny will find you,
Wherever you are...

wherever you are... wherever you are...

Countdown
To a higher place,
Countdown into some outer space.

On a day like any other day,
Sky so blue it could take your --
Take your breath away.

'Cause I remember where I was when I heard the news.
I remember where I was when I heard the news.
I remember where I was --

Sky so blue, like any other day.

We decided to share the original after Lawson noticed a fan discussion after the song. Specifically, "Jayrock" gave his take on the song. He was so clear in his definition that Lawson offered an extended explanation, saying that "I've always been fascinated by the chance occurrences in life, how we try to control our lives, plan things down to the smallest detail. The only catch is that we only control our tiny corner of the universe, and barely that."

"The day the Challenger launched was a lot like September 11 -- a gorgeous, clear, cold day," says Lawson. "Who would have guessed what would happen that day?"

And that is also where Jayrock got it right, says Lawson, when he wrote ... "Also out of context to the movie you can take the song to a more personal level for yourself."

"There's a kind of Zen in the song - you go along, you do what you need to do, care about doing ... just don't get caught up trying to control it all. You don't. But that's okay ... Whatever your destiny is, don't worry, it'll find you," Lawson wrote in reply. Later, he added for the Insider team: "Articulating things like this tend to come out goofy, even though you might actually believe in them."

There seems to have been a kind of Zen in the making of the song too. According to Lawson, the original rough is very metered and insistent. The early draft also had several transformations that included a loose jazz version, reggae version, a cappella version, and even a version with bagpipes and harmonium before settling down into what it is now with Duff. And then add in how many people touched the song along the way.

It was written by Lawson with Glatzer and Duff. It was produced by Richard Vission and Chico Bennett. It was mixed by Dave Aude. It was placed on a soundtrack produced by David Parker and Anthony Miranda. And there are many more involved. The list goes on and on. Much like the song suggests, we never really know what might happen next.

The same can be said for Lawson. Right now, he and Glatzer are already busy working on a new film project that they hope to shoot in 2010, called Emmett Bull’s Peerless Arcadium, which is set in the 1930s. He also has a number of theater projects on the horizon and is considering an opportunity to direct Richard Wagner's opera "Fliegender Holländer" next spring as well.

But of it all, he says, time will tell. Considering What Goes Up originally began as a play co-written by Lawson and Glatzer in 1996, he seems to be exactly right.

First Look: Steve Coogan in What Goes Up

When most people think of Steve Coogan, they think of one of the best known characters in the United Kingdom, Alan Partridge. However, Coogan is surprisingly diverse, recently playing Damien Cockburn in Ben Stiller’s Tropic Thunder and Octavius in the upcoming Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian, which opens the week before What Goes Up.

In What Goes Up, Coogan takes the lead as Campbell Babbitt, the morally challenged New York reporter who learns life lessons from a group of dysfunctional students (Hilary Duff, Josh Peck, Olivia Thirlby) after being sent to cover the story about a local hometown hero.

In this clip, complete with one scene with Molly Shannon and another with Thirlby, Coogan talks about what attracted him to the film, the depth of the characters, and how it relates to people searching for meaning in their lives. (Content warning: adult language).

First Look: Steve Coogan in What Goes Up.



Coogan, one of nine children, was born and raised in Middleton, Greater Manchester. He has won numerous awards for his work in television, including several British Comedy Awards, BAFTAs, and The South Bank Show award for comedy. In 2003, he was listed in The Observer as one of the 50 funniest acts in British comedy. He is also an accomplished writer, producer, director composer, and co-owner of Baby Cow Productions with Henry Normal.

Since March 2008, Coogan has been on tour doing stand-up comedy. He has also been cast in movies that include Eddie the Eagle (2009) and Murder in Samarkand (2011), both of which are currently in pre-production.

Fans Drive Interest In What Goes Up

In less than 24 hours, even before the What Goes Up Movie Soundtrack by Amherst Records appears on the homepage of iTunes (May 5), the soundtrack has already gained traction. And, "Any Other Day" by Hilary Duff has moved up 41 places on her iTunes top song list (four places in the last hour).

The song isn't the only amazing feature to focus on. The growing fan support that is providing a foundation for the film and the soundtrack is nothing short of amazing too.

"Hilary's new music is awesome! I'm so happy her film is being released, even though it's only a limited release. I love the song too!" — Emily Cluttrell, fan, iTunes review.

All across the Internet, dozens of fan sites and music reviewers representing various countries are talking about What Goes Up. Many of them are even creating their own renditions of promotional art. One of the very first seen last week was from Hilary Duff Online.


Hilary Duff Online is not alone. In addition to hundreds of blogs supporting various stars and promotional efforts, fans are connecting on Facebook and Twitter. Most feedback confirms what 1,200 views per day of the First Look: Olivia Thirlby video and 2,200 views per day of the "Any Other Day" by Hilary Duff teaser might suggest. There is growing interest in the film and the first showing at the Buffalo Niagara Film Festival will likely sell out.

Of course, numbers alone don't tell the whole the story. Every day, the producers are pleasantly surprised by fans. For example, Zach M, who is a frequent visitor to the Hilary Fan Forum, recently sent in his vision for the cover of an "Any Other Day" single (pictured right).

These efforts are also being supported several hardworking teams. Cast schedules are being reviewed, screening invitations are going out, media interest is growing, databases are being updated, promotions are being finalized, and the soundtrack label is considering various options while tracking the success of the new single. And right here, tomorrow, we'll post a "First Look: Steve Coogan in What Goes Up" video.

"This is all a countdown, to a higher place, countdown into some outer space." — Hilary Duff, from "Any Other Day" on the What Goes Up Soundtrack. Full lyrics, as presented by a fan, here and we'll be publishing the song as originally written next week.

T-Minus 29

Breaking — What Goes Up Soundtrack On iTunes

The What Goes Up Movie Soundtrack from Amherst Records went up on iTunes today, April 29, at around 4 p.m. The soundtrack includes "Any Other Day," an original single by Hilary Duff, which Robert Lawson wrote with her and Jonathan Glatzer.

The sountrack can be accessed via iTunes here [ http://tinyurl.com/dcckgu ].

The single provides a much richer mix and higher quality sound as envisioned by Richard Vission than the popular :30 teaser released on YouTube, which still earned almost 16,000 views in less than seven days (and counting).

The album was announced just days ago by David Parker, co-producer at Amherst Records. The street date (physical CD) is set for the week of May 4.

The album also includes songs from (track order, not repeated) The Innocent Bystanders, Roddy Bottum, Jeremy Wall, Anthony Miranda, Electrelane, Al Sgro & The Brendan Hines, and David Bowie. There are 17 tracks, with a run time of 60 minutes.

More details to follow tomorrow, along with the lyrics to "Any Other Day." Additional interviews with featured artists will also be available. Other distributors are expected to follow the iTunes release. Don't have iTunes? Get it here.

What Goes Up - Theatrical Countdown

What Goes Up, a film about a morally challenged New York reporter (Steve Coogan) who learns life lessons from a group of dysfunctional students (Hilary Duff, Josh Peck, Olivia Thirlby), is officially counting down to its theatrical premiere on Thursday, May 28. It will open in select theaters the day after on May 29.

"It's a little later than we initially planned, but there was an opportunity to be open in more theaters based on the response from fans," said James Hoke, executive producer with Three Kings, which produced the film. "It looks like it will be a big week for Steve Coogan. Night at the Museum 2 opens the week before. He plays Octavius in that film and Campbell Babbitt in ours."


Theatrical Premiere — May 28

Los Angeles, California

First Run Cities — May 29

Buffalo, New York
Chicago, Illinois
Cleveland, Ohio
Denver, Colorado
Las Vegas, Nevada
Los Angeles, California
Minneapolis, Minnesota
New York, New York
Toronto, Ontario
Vancouver, British Columbia

"We'll expand based on our performances in those cities, and there is another town or city in the U.S. that will also have a one night screening in June. We won't know where it will be until one lucky fan wins one of our upcoming promotions," said Hoke. "We'll be releasing the details for that promotion soon."

According to Hoke, the chance to win a one night screening in "your hometown" isn't the only way to be part of this independent film experience. There are several promotions in the works to win signed DVDs, CDs, posters, and other film memorabilia.

"There are also two other ways that fans can see this film early," he said. "They can attend the Buffalo Niagara Film Festival or, no matter where they live in the world, they can enter another upcoming promotion to win two tickets to the premiere in Los Angeles [airfare/hotel included]."

The decision to open some promotions worldwide was based on response from fans. Hoke said the entire production team sees there is an international fan base for this film, and with continued fan support, they will do everything possible to prove to distributors that What Goes Up deserves an international theatrical release ahead of a DVD release.

Currently, fans planning to attend the Buffalo Niagara Film Festival on May 8 can join the group on Facebook, which includes an event page for the festival. Later today, the What Goes Up Insider Team will announce the first promotion, which will be exclusive to Facebook.

Hoke added that the insider team will keep fans informed every step of the way. As details are confirmed, he said they will even help fans locate specific theaters in their cities with announcements on the movie blog and on Facebook. We're working hard for the fans, he said.

"Never mind the smoke and mirrors left behind you. Don't you go — there's nothing there to really bind you. Just let go and know your destiny will find you,
Wherever you are..." — Hilary Duff from "Any Other Day," written by Robert Lawson with her and Jonathan Glatzer on the What Goes Up Soundtrack.

T-Minus 31

What Goes Up Soundtrack — May 4

David Parker, co-producer of the What Goes Up Movie Soundtrack at Amherst Records, confirmed that the street date for the soundtrack will be the week of May 4. There will also be multiple release points such as iTunes and Amazon. The international release will follow immediately after.

"We know the actual shipping date will be next week," said Parker. "Our radio promo team is also working hard to make sure it receives play time on radio stations. It would be great if Hilary’s fans could start calling their favorite radio station and ask them to play “Any Other Day” by Hilary Duff, her brand new single from the What Goes Up soundtrack."



"Any Other Day" is an original single by Hilary Duff, which Robert Lawson wrote with her and Jonathan Glatzer. A :30 teaser of the opening was leaked on Monday, which prompted the producers and Parker to officially release another :30 seconds (above), after learning fans wanted to hear the teaser deeper into the song.

"The song came out great and was produced by one of the world’s top remixers, Richard Vission. I can’t wait to hear his remixes!"

Parker categorizes the soundtrack itself as what he thinks is one of the best compilations of artists to ever be released as it contains artists from the past, present and future. Why? Because they aren't just any artists.

In addition to "Any Other Day," the soundtrack features three never released songs by Innocent Bystanders, including “Kidz (Who Never Grew Up),” “Never Comin Back,” and “Teenage Moments.” Those songs accompany "Under Wraps," which was the band's breakout single in 2007.

"As with all things musical, the real excitement for me comes from being able to discover new young talent," Parker says. "And that is why I am so pleased that the director of the film, Jonathan Glatzer, and my co-producer, Tony Miranda, agreed that the song 'Under Wraps' by The Innocent Bystanders fit both thematically and musically in the movie. This song deserved much more attention."

The soundtrack also includes the UK's all-girl band Electrelane with four tracks — "You Make Me Weak At The Knees," "Cut And Run," "Two For Joy," and "Blue Straggler." Rounding out the mix is a 1999 digitally remastered version of David Bowie's hit "Heroes. "

Other artists include Roddy Bottum, Al Sgro & The Brendan Hines, Jeremy Wall, and Anthony "Tony" Miranda. Miranda is also one of the three executive producers associated with Three Kings, which produced the film.

Parker gave high marks to Miranda for his hard work and dedication. According to Parker, Miranda dazzled Amherst Records enough with “fills” for the soundtrack that the entire full length track was added to the CD.

"I think anyone who hears Tony's cut will be blown away," said Parker. " I mean it. Amherst Records has been presented with one of its most exciting projects ever thanks to everyone involved and thanks to Tony Miranda and James Hoke."

In total, there are 17 tracks from three labels — Amherst Records, EMI Records Ltd, and Too Pure Records Ltd.

"Can you imagine Hilary Duff and David Bowie on the same album?" asks Parker. "Then add in great artists like Electrelane; Jeremy Wall, who was a founding member of the pre-eminent jazz fusion group Spyro Gyra; and an entire score composed and recorded by Roddy Bottum from Faith No More."

The street date of the new soundtrack coincides with a special festival premiere of What Goes Up at 7:15 p.m. on Friday, May 8 at the 3rd Annual Buffalo Niagara Film Festival. The limited theatrical release of the film is scheduled for May, with the theatrical premiere and first run cities anticipated to be announced any day.

Amherst Records Leaks Hilary Duff Teaser

Amherst Records leaked a :33 second sneak peak of "Any Other Day," the new single cut for What Goes Up by Hilary Duff.

While the :33 second leak was unplanned, we want to make sure the fans had a chance to hear it! We'll have full details on the upcoming soundtrack soon. Amherst Records says it could be available any day on iTunes and being played by local stations.

Listen to it here.

A Message From James Hoke, What Goes Up

When I first started working on What Goes Up, I had no idea the amount of time and dedication it would take. Like so many people with hundreds of movies making up my home collection, I assumed making a 2-hour film wouldn't take too much time.

Well, it did. And it has been the most incredible experience of my life, and I've gained a new appreciation for this business.


Something else happened that I didn't expect. As a hands-on executive producer, I quietly sat on the set during the first few weeks of shooting. But after awhile, given the long hours together, I become someone else. I wasn't just the executive producer, but a member of the team. I started having a lot of fun with the cast and crew. We had to have fun because things change all the time on the set.

They change all the time after the wrap too. So I hope all the fans of Steve Coogan, Hilary Duff, Josh Peck, Oliva Thirlby, and Molly Shannon appreciate that. As we invite you to join us and hopefully work with some of you to make this film the success it deserves to be, some things we share might change at the last minute from time to time. So just know that we're going to be working hard to do our best, and we'll be listening to you every step of the way.

We have high hopes for this film, especially given the performance by Hilary Duff, who I enjoyed getting to know because she is such an amazing person. (She's also generous with her time off camera for people like me, who are big fans too.) I also had a great time with Josh Peck and really enjoyed working with Max Hoffman. (They are really crazy guys!) Well, let's be real. I enjoyed everybody and could fill a whole page with appreciation, but that's not why many of you came by.

What Goes Up's first public appearance will be at the 3rd Annual Buffalo Niagara Film Festival. If visit the site, you'll see that they already have us up as a Special Festival Premiere at 7:15 p.m. on Fri., May 8.

To give you an idea of how fast things change, I had a different date last night. And you never know. It might change again!

We're not going to stop there. Shortly after the festival, we'll start rolling out the film in several major markets in the United States. Right now, we're planning a theatrical premiere in Los Angeles and then have plans to be up in theaters in cities like New York, Chicago, and Las Vegas. There's several more cities in the works; and we'll be releasing the schedules just as soon as we can. We'll also be releasing promotions that will be very exciting for everyone.

With enough support behind this film, it is possible that we could be in every major market in North America by the end of June. Sure, I know what fans are saying. What about the June 16 DVD release?

The way I see it, we have two options. SPE Worldwide and Sony Pictures Home Entertainment are fantastic people! I know in my heart that if What Goes Up takes off, then they will work with us to either hold off the DVD release or allow us to play the film in theaters past the DVD release date. But those are details that we just can't guess about right now, and anything is possible.

Our Insider Team also tells me that there are dozens of people sending in e-mails asking about releases in specific countries. With so many distributors, it's impossible to know their exact plans.

Most often, distributors in other countries follow right after a U.S. release. We've been told that's what some intend to do. If there is any way we can help you encourage those distributors to put it in theaters, we'll let you know. (For fans in Brazil, Germany, Italy, Poland and the United Kingdom specifically ... hang in there! As we learn details, you'll learn details too!)

For all Hilary Duff fans, I know there is something else on your mind. As I confirmed yesterday with our lead "Insider," there is a new original song by Hilary Duff. It was written on the set and recorded in November.

You'll have more details from our friends at Amherst Records about the song and the soundtrack release as soon as we do. Right now, they are working on those details as I write this post. The song is called, and I hope I'm not sharing this too soon, "Any Other Day." You'll love it.

There are some other things ahead you might like to know about. Every week, we'll be featuring interviews and guest posts from the cast and crew. This includes Steve Coogan, Hilary Duff, Josh Peck. among others. We'll also be adding more pictures to the Flickr account, which you can feel free to share. You're welcome to repost any of the stories, articles, and posts from this blog. All we ask is that you link back to the source to help us along and help people find it.

Two days ago, we also made a decision to share a few scenes from the movie on YouTube. And, we'll be announcing a new What Goes Up fan group on Facebook in the days ahead. Anyone who has already written to the What Goes Up Insider will be receiving an invitation this weekend. Members will also be allowed to post links related to What Goes Up to their fan sites and blogs.

I hope you do. Because from time to time right here, we'll be giving shot outs to fan sites and blogs covering our film right here. We may be able to arrange interviews (probably via e-mail, but you never know) for some supporters.

As for shout outs, I have a couple for early supporters: Arieanna Schweber at Hilary News, Hilary Duff Digital, and everybody at the Hilary Fan Forum. I also understand there is a fan group for OMG ... Josh Peck on LiveJournal. Thank you!

Also, always feel free to ask questions or share ideas in the comment section of this or upcoming posts. You have my promise, along with Joe Nahas and Anthony Miranda [Three Kings Productions], that we'll do our best to keep answering them. Everyone — from the crew to the cast — is on board! I hope you are too.

Hilary Duff Talks About What Goes Up

This year-old insider interview with Hilary Duff still provides an interesting outtake from what she describes as a "coming of age" film. (Spoiler alert!) It was shot on the set of 'What Goes Up,' which was still called 'Safety Glass' at the time.

Since filming, Duff has also completed 'Stay Cool,' 'Greta,' and 'Foodfight!' Her next film, 'The Story of Bonnie and Clyde,' is already in pre-production.

Welcome To 'What Goes Up' Insider

What Goes Up is a film about a morally challenged New York reporter (Steve Coogan) who learns life lessons from a group of dysfunctional students (Hilary Duff, Josh Peck, Olivia Thirlby) while covering the hometown hoopla surrounding the first teacher in space. Set in the 1980s, this poignant fishbowl glimpse at life takes a look at how heroes are made in a world devoid of heroes.

The What Goes Up Insider (whatgoesupmovie.blogspot.com) is the official production blog. Here, you'll find weekly updates, insights, interviews, reviews, and opinions written by the producers, along with guest appearances by the cast and crew. You will also find some insider information about the trials and successes associated with this independent film, originally called 'Safety Glass.'