If you’ve felt an uptick in buzz surrounding Kevin Smith’s Dogma, you’re not alone—and it’s all by design. Although the film celebrated its 25th anniversary last year, Smith has been meticulously planning a national tour in its honor, which has been unfolding over the past few months. As luck would have it, Dogma is making its way back to select theaters starting today, adding to the excitement. The highlight of this celebration? A recent screening at the Cannes Film Festival, where Smith shared that he’s developed an idea for Dogma 2.
“I cracked the story,” Smith revealed to Deadline. “I absolutely love it. I feel like when people see it, they’ll be like, ‘Oh, I get it,’ like ‘that makes sense’ kind of thing. Hopefully they’ll be like, ‘that’s clever’ and not be like, ‘Well shit, I would have done that.’”
Although Smith kept the specifics of the plot under wraps, he did mention that the storyline would include roles for the original cast, which featured stars like Matt Damon, Ben Affleck, Linda Fiorentino, Chris Rock, and Jason Lee. “I will set a place at the table for everyone who was in the first movie who is still alive,” Smith stated. “Sadly, Alan [Rickman] and George [Carlin] won’t be able to join us, but I’m excited to include everyone willing to return. The story is robust enough to incorporate all the characters but can also stand on its own.”
As Smith’s career has evolved toward more unconventional films like Tusk and Yoga Hosers, he’s acutely aware of the responsibility that comes with possibly making a Dogma sequel. “It’s like one of the last flicks I ever made that’s beloved across the boards,” he said. “I wouldn’t step to the plate unless I believed that this could work as a companion piece.” Naturally, he values the input of the audience; after all, no one wants to hear, “Well, that sucks. You should have left well enough alone.”
Ultimately, Smith hopes to premiere Dogma 2 at Cannes, the same festival that debuted the original film in 1999. “Why assume that the Cannes-worthy chapter of your life has ended?” he pondered. “This year’s edition was the 78th, and I aim to return for the 80th or 81st with the sequel.” His ambition was met with applause at the festival, where festival director Thierry Frémaux emphasized, “If it is good,” to which Smith readily agreed.
Can Smith transform this idea into a workable script and secure funding? He’s managed to do just that with both Jay and Silent Bob and Clerks in recent years. So as the characters of Dogma might suggest, sometimes, you just have to have faith. For more insights from Smith on Dogma, Cannes, and more, be sure to check out Deadline, and don’t miss Dogma back in theaters.
What is Dogma about? The film critiques organized religion while blending humor and deep philosophical questions.
Why has Dogma remained popular over the years? Its unique take on faith and belief, combined with memorable characters and witty dialogue, keeps audiences engaged even decades later.
Who are the main cast members of Dogma? The film features stars such as Matt Damon, Ben Affleck, Linda Fiorentino, and Chris Rock, who have all contributed to its lasting appeal.
When was Dogma originally released? The film premiered in 1999 and has since established a loyal fanbase.
What can we expect from Dogma 2? While details are scarce, Kevin Smith has hinted at a story that includes the original cast and explores new themes relevant to contemporary audiences.
As the world waits for more updates, make sure to explore related content and immerse yourself in the captivating universe of film storytelling at Moyens I/O.