5 Things To Do Before Seeing 'The Bling Ring'

Hollywood Crush

5 Things To Do Before Seeing 'The Bling Ring'

by Jessica Marshall

A film adaptation of the real-life sensational story of a gang of Cali teens who stole from the stars and robbed Hollywood of its sense of home security is hitting theaters this week. Bling bling!

"The Bling Ring," written and directed by Sofia Coppola and starring Emma Watson and Taissa Farmiga, offers a take on the saga of the gang's heists in 2008 and 2009, robbing millions of dollars worth of loot from the homes of their fashion-forward celeb idols like Paris Hilton, Miranda Kerr, Audrina Patrige, Rachel Bilson and Lindsay Lohan.

Before you get bejeweled by "The Bling Ring," here are five things you really must do.

Read the Book

Vanity Fair contributor Nancy Jo Sales penned an expose detailing the misadventures of the thieving teens that was released last month ("The Bling Ring: How a Gang of Fame-Obsessed Teens Ripped Off Hollywood and Shocked the World"). The book is an expansion of her investigative reporting for the magazine in 2010. Sofia Coppola based the film on the article.

Visit the designer section of your local department store

See and feel what all the fuss was about and why these teens went gaga for the stolen goods. Browse the manicured selection of Louis Vuittons, Guccis, Yves St. Laurents and Marc Jacobs in the nearest store. Imagine how chic you would look sporting all that designer gear. Maybe slip your feet into some Louboutins. But don't even THINK about stealing anything.

Watch "Pretty Wild"

This short-lived E! reality TV series documented the adventures of L.A. party girl, aspiring model and convicted Bling Ringer Alexis Neiers and her family. Part of the nine-episode series tracks Alexis' trial, which ended in a six-month jail sentence. In "The Bling Ring," Emma Watson plays a character based on Neiers.

Watch the Lifetime Original "The Bling Ring"

Before there was a big-screen adaptation, there was a 2011 small-screen Lifetime gem of the same name (very) loosely based on the true story. "Dirty Dancing" alum Jennifer Gray and "Carrie Diaries" hottie Austin Butler star.

Go on a Hollywood Star Tour

Check out celeb abodes the legal way! Hop on an L.A.-based tour and enjoy the ride. If you're feeling adventurous, create your own tour. Don't forget to Google Map all your fave celebs' houses.

"The Bling Ring" opens in limited release this weekend.

Will you be seeing "The Bling Ring"? Tell us in the comments and on Twitter!

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