Dogma 2 Confirmed: Kevin Smith Reveals Sequel with Ben Affleck and Matt Damon
Twenty-five years after the original cult classic, filmmaker Kevin Smith has exciting news for movie fans: Dogma 2 is officially in development. During the Vulture Festival, Smith provided tantalizing details about the long-awaited sequel that will reunite Ben Affleck and Matt Damon.
The Rights Battle: A 25-Year Journey
The path to making Dogma 2 has been anything but straightforward. For years, the film's distribution rights were entangled in a complex legal situation involving Harvey Weinstein and his brother Bob Weinstein. Smith revealed he made three separate attempts to purchase the rights, all of which were initially rejected.
The breakthrough came when a new company acquired the film's rights during a massive film package sale. Recognizing the star power of Affleck and Damon, they reached out to Smith to explore sequel possibilities.
Not Your Typical Sequel
Smith emphasized that Dogma 2 won't be a traditional follow-up film, but rather what he calls an "accompanying film." Fans can expect the return of Affleck and Damon, reprising their roles as the fallen angels Bartleby and Loki.
A Personal Touch: The Good Will Hunting Connection
In a humorous aside, Smith shared a personal anecdote about his relationship with Affleck and Damon. He reminded them that he helped convince Miramax to greenlight Good Will Hunting back in 1997, and has been playfully holding this over their heads for 25 years - which might explain why they keep appearing in his films!
Revisiting the Original Dogma
For those needing a refresher, the original Dogma followed two fallen angels seeking a loophole back into heaven, set against the backdrop of New Jersey. The film was a unique blend of comedy, theology, and social commentary, featuring an ensemble cast including Linda Fiorentino, Salma Hayek, Alan Rickman, Chris Rock, and Jason Lee.
The movie was part of Smith's larger "View Askewniverse", a interconnected series of films that includes Clerks, Mallrats, Chasing Amy, and others.
What's Next?
Exciting developments are on the horizon. The original Dogma will be re-released in theaters for its 25th anniversary and will finally be available on a digital platform. Smith hints that this new agreement opens doors for potential TV adaptations and future projects.
Fan Reactions
While some fans might be apprehensive about a sequel, Smith is characteristically confident. "Yes, I might just destroy the legacy," he said, "and I'm incredibly excited about it."
For fans of Kevin Smith's unique storytelling and the original Dogma, the announcement of Dogma 2 is a dream come true. Stay tuned for more updates on this highly anticipated film.