As Rachael Leigh Cook celebrated the 25th anniversary of Josie and the Pussycats, it was the voice behind the character that got her flowers.
During Cinespia‘s screening of the 2001 cult musical comedy on Saturday at Hollywood Forever Cemetary, the actress praised Letters to Cleo frontwoman Kay Hanley for providing the vocals for Josie and the film’s iconic soundtrack, as they were joined by the film’s writing/director duo Deborah Kaplan and Harry Elfont.
“I have never felt more pride for being in a film that’s sort of also in excess with unearned ownership of that product, because I am only half of this role,” said Cook. “So, I want to take this moment to just shout out Kay Hanley for the rest of my days. The only reason I can watch myself in this movie is because [Josie’s] spirit is you. I love your work in this movie so much.”
Hanley explained that the movie “literally changed my life,” noting that she was in attendance with her 27-year-old daughter, who was a baby going to work with her when she recorded the soundtrack.
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In June, Hanley detailed her struggles trying to obtain residuals and health insurance through SAG after the film’s producers allegedly failed to submit her paperwork to the union.
Although the 2001 big-screen adaptation of the Archie Comic only grossed $14.8 million when it was first released, the camp, stylized comedy has earned a massive cult following over the years, thanks to its fierce takedown of capitalism through subliminal messaging, in-your-face product placement and an iconic original soundtrack, performed by Hanley.
The movie, which recently marked its milestone 25th anniversary, also featured a perfect ensemble, including Cook as Josie, Rosario Dawson as Val and Tara Reid as Mel, as well as Alan Cumming and Parker Posey as evil Mega Records execs Wyatt and Fiona.
Hanley has been the lead singer and songwriter for Letters to Cleo since 1990, also appearing on the soundtracks for The Craft (1996) and 10 Things I Hate About You (1999), in which she also made a musical cameo as herself.
