Posted by Son of Skylewalker at cras77p112.navix.net on July 31, 2001 at 22:29:04:
In Reply to: Some bad, bad news concerning me and GLAAD posted by Kevin on July 31, 2001 at 17:52:15:
Kevin-
I think we can all attest to the fact that you and your work are most certainly not homophobic. While some of your writing might be a bit crude (/funny as hell), it nevertheless delivers a message of acceptance and open-mindedness that I would dare to guess has brought many a viewer/reader/poster to a more mature and even loving worldview.
Still, you make one fateful mistake if you hope to continue to address controversial issues, or simply do good intelligent work, in film: you remain allied with the Brothers Weinstein (god bless them), who just happen to be attached at the hip to the largest controversy dart board in the world...MICKEY MOUSE. I honestly don't believe your films are reviled by the people that attack them; they simply offer too great an opporuntiy for exposure, fundraising, and recruitment to the pseudo-offendee of the year.
I disagree with GLAAD's attack on you, but I can see where it makes sense for them to do so to simply draw some attention and sympathy from the public eye as DISNEY (not Miramax and certainly not you, though such a sad portrayal may take shape by default) is characterized as being insensitive to the needs of the gay community. Now, I consider this a betrayal of sorts, since Chasing Amy was probably one of the most socially conscious and mind-opening films of the 90s to tackle modern views of love and sex, but it seems GLAAD has no qualms with stabbing one of their own in the back for the good of the greater cause. Hell, they might even think they're doing you a favor by giving the film added exposure (which will certainly happen), while also getting on a few talkshows and in a few newspapers to make a point. This might be a bit too ingenius (not to mention generous) a plan, but these homosexuals are pretty crafty...I wouldn't put it past THEM (please...FOR THE LOVE OF GOD....note the sarcasm).
In conclusion, Kevin...you owe Miramax a lot....they've been good to you...but I stronly suggest you find a new banner to work under if you hope to continue your growth as a filmmaker with a social conscience. Otherwise, I fear you're going to have to water down your work OR remain the lightning rod/liability that is your current occupation (in addition, of course, to your excellent filmmaking).
Am I black or white...straight or gay....CONTROVERSY;
Kyle