Filmmaker and actor Kevin Smith recently shared his thoughts on a disappointing experience involving Ellen DeGeneres at the screening of his 1997 comedy-drama film Chasing Amy. Smith opened up about the incident in a new documentary titled Chasing Chasing Amy, which revisits the impact and controversy surrounding the original film.
Kevin Smith on Ellen’s Walkout
Smith revealed that he invited Ellen DeGeneres, whom he referred to as “the most famous lesbian in the world” at the time, to attend the premiere of Chasing Amy. However, Ellen, along with her then-partner Anne Heche, left during the first half of the movie. This reaction disheartened Smith and his team. “It was the biggest blowback,” Smith recalled, adding that their hopes of ever appearing on The Ellen Show diminished instantly.
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Ellen had gained immense media attention that year for coming out as a lesbian. Her walking out of Chasing Amy seemed to signify her disapproval of the film’s themes or representation, especially considering the sensitive portrayal of LGBTQ+ issues in the story.
Chasing Amy starred Ben Affleck as Holden McNeil, a comic book artist who falls in love with fellow artist Alyssa Jones, played by Joey Lauren Adams. The twist? Alyssa identifies as a lesbian, but she develops romantic feelings for Holden, which complicates both their lives. The movie explored unconventional relationships and sexual fluidity but also included controversial dialogue that raised eyebrows, especially within the LGBTQ+ community.
Smith acknowledged that the movie included some “harsh terminology” and jokes that might be perceived as insensitive today. For instance, Jason Lee’s character, Banky, displayed overt homophobia. Reflecting on this, Smith admitted that he understands why some people from the LGBTQ+ community were uncomfortable with the film. He said, “I’ve had 22 years to process that reaction… Some people were upset right from the start.”
Despite the controversy, Chasing Amy received critical acclaim upon its release and still holds an impressive 87% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. The film also played a significant role in boosting Kevin Smith’s career.
Smith shared that he created Chasing Amy during a critical time when he was trying to solidify his place in the film industry. “I needed to do something to stay in this business, or else we were out. That’s a big part of where Chasing Amy came from,” he explained.
While Chasing Amy remains a beloved classic for many, it is also a reminder of how depictions of LGBTQ+ relationships in cinema have evolved over the years. Smith’s openness about his mistakes and the movie’s impact highlights his commitment to growth and understanding, even decades after the film’s release.
