Movies

With ‘Dogma’s’ re-release, director Kevin Smith’s prayers for his cult classic have been answered

BBG News

As a movie enthusiast, I’ve longed for over two and a half decades to see director Kevin Smith’s masterpiece, “Dogma,” a witty religious satire about fallen angels yearning to reenter heaven, come back to life. And now, my wishes have finally been granted as the 1999 comedy has found its way into our cinemas once more.

25 years ago, the iconic film “Good Will Hunting” graced our screens, and on Thursday, it made its triumphant return to over 1,500 AMC Theaters as part of its anniversary celebration. Although technically speaking, this milestone passed last year, the return of a movie that showcased one of Ben Affleck and Matt Damon’s finest collaborations, an all-star comedic cast (George Carlin, Chris Rock, Janeane Garofalo, and Alan Rickman), not forgetting the unforgettable “Buddy Christ,” calls for a long-overdue chorus of rejoice!

×

Smith commented on the film, saying it carries a strong reputation. For him, this movie serves as an “all-encompassing” or “covering” film. The term “all-encompassing” or “covering” film refers to a production where people are less likely to criticize you harshly, even if your subsequent work isn’t well received, simply because they admire the original movie.

Kevin Smith’s illustrious career is primarily associated with the films “Clerks” (1994) and “Chasing Amy” (1997). However, his fourth movie, “Dogma,” a comedic masterpiece that tackles his former Catholic faith with wit and audacity, remains one of his most celebrated works. This film premiered at Cannes in 1999, and recently reappeared in the Cannes Classics section during the festival last month. Just before discussing “Dogma’s” unexpected revival with The Times, Smith shared that the movie was rescued by filmmaker and actress Alessandra Williams. She purchased the film from Miramax earlier this year, a move that Smith claims was to help Weinstein financially amidst his legal battles. Weinstein had previously acquired and shelved Smith’s film, but later sold it, along with many others, to Williams.

Working together with Iconic Events, the movie has been updated in 4K resolution especially for its screening tour. This remastered version is being exhibited at select AMC theaters. Smith, who’s no stranger to promoting his past films, often combines screenings with Q&A sessions and stand-up acts during these live events. It didn’t take long for him to organize a 20-city tour that sold out quickly, inviting fans to rewatch “Dogma” in a fresh (and safer) context.

Smith mentioned that although more people are aware of this film now compared to before, it’s not as risky or controversial as it used to be due to the backlash it received previously from Christian fundamentalists who were offended by what they perceived as the movie’s disrespect towards their religion. This opposition included death threats, protests, and an estimated 400,000 letters of hate mail.

Smith warned, “It’s high time you Jews returned the money you’ve taken and invested it in body armor instead. We have no doubt we’ll be arriving, armed with shotguns, as stated in this letter I remember. ‘We’re on our way because we’re on our way to confront you.’ Sincerely, Brothers of Faith.

Despite the initial controversy surrounding the movie fading away, Smith emphasized that the film’s underlying message continues to be strong. He described the movie as a heartfelt tribute to spirituality, explaining, “To me, it feels like a child eagerly expressing his faith after having been brought up in a church where every Sunday seemed like a day of mourning. I hope people appreciate it for what it truly represents – a loving letter to spirituality.

Read More

2025-06-06 13:31

Previous post The Handmaid’s Tale star’s new psychological thriller shares major casting update
Next post Sam Thompson in complete agony and breaks down in tears as he FINALLY completes gruelling Soccer Aid challenge and raises £1.5M for Unicef after battling horrendous injuries