After a quarter of a century since its original release, Kevin Smith is diving back into his film repertoire with plans for a sequel to his 1999 cult classic, *Dogma*. During a recent Dogma Confessional at the Vulture Festival, Smith excitedly shared insights into this highly anticipated project. The film, which has gained a dedicated following due to its witty exploration of religious themes and satire, is set to welcome back fan-favorite characters played by Ben Affleck and Matt Damon, both of whom portrayed fallen angels in the original film.
As Smith acknowledged, not everyone is thrilled about the prospect of revisiting *Dogma*. He expressed awareness of the potential backlash from fans who feel that some cinematic treasures should remain untouched. However, his enthusiasm was palpable as he indicated that he’s prepared to embrace the risks for the sake of creative revival. With a cheeky self-awareness about the potential criticism, he declared, “Some people will be like, ‘Don’t f—ing touch it. You’ll ruin it.’ And I’m here to tell you: I will. I’m f—ing tickled.” This statement encapsulates not only his confidence but also the boldness that has characterized Smith’s career.
One of the most compelling aspects of this sequel is the anticipated participation of Affleck and Damon. The duo’s return to their roles as Bartleby and Loki appears to be a significant element in Smith’s vision for the new film. Smith humorously noted that for 25 years, he had playfully held their earlier success in *Good Will Hunting* over their heads, remarking, “I have been able to hold that over both their heads for 25 f—ing years.” This lighthearted banter highlights both the camaraderie and the unique bond shared among the trio.
Smith’s ability to leverage his relationships within Hollywood for something as revolutionary as a *Dogma* sequel speaks volumes about the loyalty and mutual respect he has cultivated in an industry often marked by competition. The commitment of Affleck and Damon to reprise their roles not only adds star power but also reinstates their characters in a narrative that has the potential to explore even deeper philosophical themes twenty-five years after the original story.
In many ways, this new installment can be seen as an exploration of themes that are still relevant in today’s cultural landscape. *Dogma* originally tackled complex ideas regarding faith, morality, and the intricacies of organized religion, all wrapped in Smith’s distinctive humor. The film was a pivotal part of Smith’s broader cinematic universe known as the View Askewniverse, which comprises beloved films such as *Clerks* and *Chasing Amy*. With a legacy spanning over two decades, the Askewniverse has evolved alongside Smith himself, reflecting changes in personal and societal perspectives.
Now, the possibilities for expanding this universe seem endless. As Smith hinted during the festival, the renewed distribution rights for *Dogma* could facilitate the creation of sequels, spin-offs, or even television adaptations, broadening the canvas for storytelling in ways that were previously unattainable. It presents a thrilling opportunity for Smith to not only revisit *Dogma* but to create an entire ecosystem for further exploration of its characters and themes.
Addressing Past Controversies
This project arrives at a nuanced moment when considering Smith’s past collaborations with Harvey Weinstein. After the troubling allegations against Weinstein surfaced in 2017, Smith expressed his shame for working with the notorious producer. He has since pledged to donate future residuals from his work with Weinstein and Miramax to Women in Film, which acknowledges a commitment to supporting industry reform in light of serious ethical issues. This pledge reflects a maturity and a deepened awareness of the industry’s darker elements and emphasizes the necessity for positive change.
The announcement of a *Dogma* sequel is not merely a nostalgic trip down memory lane but represents a celebration of the changeable nature of filmmaking and the potential for growth and evolution within one’s craft. With Kevin Smith at the helm, the upcoming film promises to balance reverence for the original while infusing fresh ideas, humor, and critiques of modern society. This project will undoubtedly resonate with long-time fans and newcomers alike, marking an exciting new chapter for the Askewniverse.