At the
film's recent press day, Moretz, Blackley, Leonard, Cutler, Forman and Cross discussed bringing the
emotional experience of the book
to the screen, the challenge of finding the right cast, Blackley and Leonard's preparation for their musical roles, creating the onscreen chemistry in the relationship between Adam and Mia, Stacy Keach's heartfelt portrayal of Gramps, Forman's
reaction to seeing her novel adapted
to film, and Cutler's desire
to recreate the roller coaster experience of the book but tell a story that's ultimately life affirming and has a positive message.