TEXAS TWO-STEP: At the South by Southwest film festival premiere of her psychological thriller “Snap” at the Alamo Ritz theater Monday night, Nikki Reed happily ditched sky-high heels in favor of worn-in Theory booties. “I thought, ‘This is the only film premiere where I can wear my favorite comfy flats,’” she said, noting the laid-back, arty Austin vibe. She paired them with a gold Mademoiselle faux snakeskin jacket, J Brand jeans and jewelry from her line, Mattlin Era. On Saturday, Reed will do double-duty, singing in two shows at St David’s Historic Sanctuary with musician husband Paul McDonald, with whom she released an album, “The Best Part,” last November. “I’m scared out of my mind of course,” said Reed. “I don’t really drink so it’s not like I can take four shots of tequila and feel happy or anything. I just get up there with my glass of water and go, ‘Here we go.’”
She is marginally more confident in her acting skills. “It’s really hard to watch myself on screen. I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t,” said the candid actress. “I’m still massively insecure like most are actually,” added Reed, who ceased the self-deprecation long enough to celebrate her costar Jake Hoffman. “Jake’s fabulous. I spent tons of time at his house when I was a teenager, so I was just really excited to work with him. He’s so talented, and he’s great in the film.” In the dark movie set in the world of dubstep, their relationship is far less cheery. “It quickly takes a wrong turn, and we end up at a very bad place,” she summed up.
For his part, McDonald dutifully toted his wife’s purse for the night. “I got to support my lady,” he said. “It’s unbelievable. I love the vibe, the people,” he added of the festival. Not to mention the perks: Before the premiere, the pair dined on a three-course meal at the Samsung Galaxy Experience VIP dinner for the film’s cast, who were all gifted with gadgets.