Joel Courtney recently joined Popternative to talk about his new romantic comedy 40 Dates and 40 Nights, starring alongside Bailee Madison.

In the interview, Joel discusses how he approaches each role as its own story while still bringing a developed acting process to the work. He also talks about finding the heart of Mason, his character in 40 Dates and 40 Nights, and why grounded comedy works best when audiences can laugh with the characters while still caring about what they are going through.

40 Dates and 40 Nights follows Leah, played by Bailee Madison, who accepts her grandmother’s unusual challenge: 40 dates in 40 nights in exchange for a full year of rent. Along the way, awkward dates, unexpected sparks, and honest self-reflection force her to confront what may really be standing in the way of love.

The film stars Bailee Madison, Joel Courtney, Jack Schumacher, Luxy Banner, Eric Nelsen, Jai Rodriguez, and Annie Potts. It is directed by Andy Delaney and written by Sarah “Howie” Howard.

40 Dates and 40 Nights released in select theaters on June 26 and arrives On Demand on June 30.

Watch the short Joel-focused interview clip above, then continue below for the complete Popternative conversation with Joel Courtney and director Andy Delaney.

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