It's not easy being Paris Hilton, always being photographed by the paparazzi doing things as mundane as ordering a hamburger at a drive-in."Paris, Not France," a documentary about the life and business of being Hilton debuted at the Toronto International Film Festival. From one perspective, it doesn't seem like much fun being a 27-year-old global celebrity.
The movie from director Adria Petty, daughter of rocker Tom Petty, shows Paris at work on red carpets and at home with her family and friends. Adria spent a year documenting Paris' life and came away with an insider's view.
Paris, derided by some as a spoiled rich kid with little real talent but adored by her fans, is given largely sympathetic treatment.
"I had a conception that she might not be very smart before I met her. I didn't really go in with too many prejudices against her, but just like everyone else I wondered what she was all about," Adria said in an interview. "As soon as I met her, I knew within a minute that she was a cool chick, a smart girl, and hard-working. She certainly wasn't lounging on a chaise eating cherries."
Adria said the documentary is designed not to sway Paris doubters but to entertain. Adria wanted to make this generation's "Truth or Dare," referring to Madonna's behind-the-scenes look at her 1990 Blond Ambition Tour.
It wasn't that hard to get Paris to talk candidly, Adria said. "I think it was really liberating for her because I don't think she's ever been encouraged to talk about things in a candid and open way."
