I heard a radio spot for the new movie Serenity and it was interesting.
They listed off that there have been paid preview showings of the movie in 35 cities and each one sold out in less than an hour. That some people drove hundreds of miles to get to a showing. That each showing had thunderous applause and great enthusiasm afterwards. There were clips from fans after the movie. They end with September 30th, you will be able to experience what all the excitement is about.
I am glad they are able to use this stuff to promote the movie. It is nice to see/hear the movement of fandom being acknowledged. To see/hear our mighty roar as the case may be.
But, I am afraid that they may be building the movie bigger than it will deliver. It is a great movie. I loved it. I will see it again openning night. I will buy the DVD when it comes out. But I don’t know if it can carry the weight of a blockbuster. I don’t know if Mr. and Ms. Average America out there will like it nearly as much as me.
There is something sad when a movie that would be good on its own standing is a disappointment because people expected more when they went in. I hope that the hype doesn’t over blow the goodness that is Serenity.
I felt that way about the Star Wars movies (the recent ones not the first 3) when they came out. They weren’t bad per se, but everyone was expecting epic level movies. Then they picked them apart because they didn’t meet up with their cherished memories of how great the first three were.
I believe Serenity will do well, everyone i know will see it a few times at least. But I don’t expect “Matrix” money for it.
Is it better than Batman (and by that I mean the first Michael Keaton movie)?
Compared to that hype, the Serenity marketing has been a really soft sell.
I think it’s pretty good. Enjoyed it both times I saw it.
But….
People who haven’t watched Firefly I don’t think will get many of the best parts. And many of those more serious people (not just fans who accept anything because of what it is) may take issue with some of the changes of direction the movie takes from the series.
All in all a fun, entertaining movie though.