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‘The Romantics’ will finally get its North Fork premiere

COURTESY PHOTO | Warren McKnight of Riverhead marries actors Josh Duhamel and Anna Paquin on the North Fork set of 'The Romantics.'

They’ll be rolling out the red carpet at Floyd Memorial Library Friday, Feb. 11, at 7 p.m. for the North Fork premiere of “The Romantics,” the Katie Holmes movie filmed in Southold in November 2009.

The film debuted in New York City last September but never came to a theatre in this area. For many residents, the library screening will be the first time they’ll get the chance to see their friends who appeared as extras and the familiar settings, including Old Field Vineyard and the Southold Yacht Club, where the film was shot.

“We’re hoping they’ll come and hoping they’ll wear tiaras, evening gowns and tuxedos,” library assistant director Poppy Johnson said about the local people who appear in the film.

“Of course, some people may find they ended up on the cutting room floor,” she said.

Floyd Memorial’s premiere had to await release of the DVD, which will now become part of the library’s collection, Ms. Johnson said.

“I think it’s going to be a lot of fun,” she said. “This is not the usual serious movie presentation at the library,” she said. “It’s going to be a lot of rowdy people saying, ‘That’s me,’” as their images appear on the screen.

Among the 100 or so residents who took part in the shooting were Ms. Johnson’s mother, Martha Johnson, of Greenport; Riverhead banjo player Warren McKnight; and Southold residents Kate Nickles and Bob and Audrey Rothman.

Mr. McKnight played a minister in a marriage scene. At the New York City premiere at the Regal Union Square Stadium Theater, he was invited on stage with Ms. Holmes, Anna Paquin, Elijah Wood and Adam Brody to answer audience questions.

Duds suitable for a Hollywood premier are not required for the library screening. For those who prefer more laid back attire for the event, all are welcome to wear whatever suits them, Ms. Johnson said.

But expect red carpet arrivals with lights and paparazzi, Ms. Johnson joked. Popcorn, she added, will be available during the screening.

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