Blonde Ambition

Blonde Ambition isn't, strictly speaking, a direct-to-DVD production -- it had a grand total of eight theatrical bookings before taking the fast lane to homevid -- but it's difficult to see how even one of the 16 producers involved with this trifle ever could have expected to draw multitudes to megaplexes with something so slight. The marquee allure of Jessica Simpson may be enough to attract curious buyers and renters, though the actress' relatively demure star turn here will disappoint anyone seeking a smokin' hot reprise of her scantily clad Daisy Duke.

Dumped in the heart of Texas

According to People magazine, Blonde Ambition, a starring vehicle for the lovely and talented Jessica Simpson, is coming soon.... to a video store near you. Strictly speaking, however, it won't be a straight-to-DVD release, because the comedy (which co-stars Luke Wilson) will open Dec. 21 for an extremely limited theatrical run. How limited? Elizabeth Wolfe, a spokeswoman for both Nu Image/Millennium Films, the film's production company, and First Look Distribution, which will distribute the comedy, tells People:

"It is being released in this crowded marketplace in eight theaters in Texas. The reason we chose Texas is the two stars are from Texas: Jessica Simpson and Luke Wilson. As an independent studio, we, as a rule, don't have major wide releases. It's a very common release practice for independent studios."

Hey, when it comes to positive spin, Dana Perino has nothing on this lady.

It seems to me that... Oh, sorry, have to answer the phone. I think it's my Variety editor with a review assignment.