"Nine" packs a crowd

One tactic the Hollywood news site The Wrap is using to get its name out there is to host free film screenings. Judging by tonight, it's working. So many people RSVP'd to a screening of "Nine" at the Sherman Oaks Arclight that the movie had to be shifted into larger auditorium — and the house was still virtually full. Director Rob Marshall didn't show as promised, but producer Harvey Weinstein pinch hit and the crowd seemed appreciative.

As for the film: My group read the audience response as tepid. And we couldn't remember a single tune right afterward, never good with a musical. Marion Cotillard and Penelope Cruz were the high points.