Posted by BlakeTyner at cache-rk04.proxy.aol.com on March 24, 2004 at 23:06:11:
Kevin, my brotha,
Normally I'm a lurker but I felt compelled to post tonight. A while back you asked somebody why they only lurked, so let me give my answer. I'm the type of guy that usually keeps his trap shut unless and until I have something useful to say. Though I love View Askew and the board, I normally have no insights to contribute.
First, I wanted you to know that we all appreciate all your efforts and the dedication that you've put into this flick (and all of them). Many props to Jen as well, as I know it's been a wild ride for her. I keep busy myself, though what I do probably doesn't compare to what you've been up to lately. All I do is go to a small Christian university in East Texas and manage a small tourist railroad in my hometown (www.jeffersonrailway.com if you're interested....sign the guestbook if you're inclined) and I stay so tired I almost can't see straight.
I've been reading all the reviews for JG and the interviews in Newsweek and whatnot and it's obvious to me that you've truly been running sideways to keep from flying. This movie seems so personal for you, and I know how it must feel to see people complain about its sentimentality. Let me tell you something, but keep it on the downlow: it's time for a sentimental movie. With all the epics and change-the-world effects movies of late, and especially with regards to "The Passion", we're craving an honest, sweet movie from the heart. You've delivered that; fuck the critics and armchair assholes with nothing better to do than bitch. As you know, there are many people who are not happy unless they complain.
Also, I sincerely don't mean to bring up unhappy thoughts, but there's an obvious personal touch with Carlin's character and your father passing. I lost my dad/best friend when I was 15 and I know how it feels when someone doesn't understand that connection. I do, and praise you for it. My thoughts and prayers are with you. And since this movie is also a love letter to Harley it sucks to hear people who don't get it...but rest assured that those of us that do far outnumber the ones that don't.
In closing, I just wanted to thank you for changing my life. I've come of age in the era of Kevin Smith and you've been like a big brother to me (the type of big brother who doesn't know you exist, but a big bro nonetheless.) I'm a proud supporter, even if that means I'm a fanboy.
Well, that's about it. Once the movie opens take some time, even if it's just a few days. I know you have GH to work on, and though I've never been a comic book fan I look forward to seeing it. Keep being the Kevin Smith we all know and love...and continue to lay that podium DOWN, beeyotch!
Later,
Blake (whose daddy called him Jughead)