Comments on: Summing up The Nines

By: JC

JC — Tue, 04 Dec 2007 02:40:42 +0000

The Nines is the best movie I've ever seen. I saw it at a sneak preview, dragging six friends, and then on opening night (Austin) with another four friends, and most of the original group returning.

Thank you so much for this movie. You know how you always have your top five ready to go in case anybody asks? The Nines was at the top of my list before I was halfway through it the first time, once the scope of what you were attempting became clear. I'm still thinking about it, over a month later.

I wish it had gotten wider distribution, but I have faith that it will build a huge audience on DVD through word of mouth. The promise you showed with GO has matured into something beautiful, insightful, and uplifting in the extreme. I can only compare the business model to something like Donnie Darko -- what it didn't get in press, it will make back a billion times in loyalty and the personal attachment of the people that love it.

Please write one thousand more movies, honestly. You're a complete genius, touched by grace. I feel lucky to have seen this film.

By: Vig

Vig — Tue, 16 Oct 2007 19:47:44 +0000

I finished your wonderful script the other day and my mind was literally buzzing. I shifted around in my seat at the library where I was reading and up pops someone’s lost bookmark from the cushions: “Remember that you are the universe… and this universe is you.” (Native American Proverb). I took it as a sign that the next script I attempt has to have meaning beyond box office, it needs to be about the expansion of consciousness. Good on you for realizing that from the beginning and not pandering to the lowest common denominator. I look forward to seeing the movie. And don’t let ‘em grind you down.

By: Anonymous

Anonymous — Tue, 16 Oct 2007 17:09:28 +0000

Sorry to hear you didn't expand further. I worked on a UK film called 'Confetti' that got picked up by Fox Searchlight at Cannes for worldwide, then dumped in about three and a half screens in the US cause Little Miss Sunshine suddenly gobbled up the marketing budget. This kind of stategy i guess paid off for Fox with the Oscars and the buckets of cash that Sunshine but took, and everyone understood that they had to do it, but at the same time.... Goddam it.

On another note: Will you be coming to UK to do any press for the Nines? There's an indie cinema where I live in central London (Clapham Picturehouse) that does great Q&As with directors before screenings... we had John Turturro recently with his movie, Alan Parker was here the other day, Danny Boyle... Would be great if there's any change left in those coffers...?

Otherwise, can't wait to see the movie. Best of luck with the rest of the release.

James

By: treze

treze — Fri, 12 Oct 2007 07:29:26 +0000

Sad to hear the expansion is canceled. But John, rest assured a lot, and I mean a lot of fans are eager to see the film here in Europe, and especially in France. I hope the Gallic release can’t be too far ahead.

By: Rob Hogan

Rob Hogan — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 06:21:36 +0000

I was really looking forward to seeing this film come to Columbus Ohio as I didn’t get a chance to see it in NYC. Is there any chance to get a screener before it drops on DVD?

By: James

James — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 02:26:25 +0000

David (#10) says “Keep us posted on Australian release dates, if it ever gets this far.”

I’m in the black hole that they call Tasmania…I don’t even know if they’ll release the dvd here…

By: John August

John August — Wed, 10 Oct 2007 22:48:19 +0000

Yanel (#11):

There's actually a prequel and (hidden) sequel on the DVD.

Steven (#4):

It's not even sleight-of-hand, really. The accounting makes it (pretty transparently) impossible to show a profit on bigger movies, because of giant marketing costs, distribution fees, interest and other charges. Yes, somebody is making money, but the project itself will always show a deficit.

By: Jose G.

Jose G. — Wed, 10 Oct 2007 21:38:38 +0000

Iâ€™ve just seen The Nines in Sitges Film Festival, here in Spain. Lucky me! I really loved the film, even though I must admit I didnâ€™t understand the whole story at this first time. Maybe it has to do with the subtitles thing. Maybe my brain is spoiled by thousands of overchewed stories delivered by actual cinema. Anyway, The Nines is challenging and gives you a lot of homework, which is really good. If I have the chance, Iâ€™ll see it again and hope everybody will do the same so your box-office will be doubled! Hope to see you one of these years in Sitges. Iâ€™m absolutely sure youâ€™ll love the festival. Thank you for all the cool stuff you share with us in your blog.

By: JP

JP — Wed, 10 Oct 2007 18:45:20 +0000

John,

Would you consider putting together an entry explaining a bit about movie money--i.e., if you're saying this is your first film to show a profit, do you mean first film to show a profit after its North American release? Surely your other films have shown a profit after overseas release and DVD sales?

Also, I'm bummed The Nines didn't make it to Chicago. We have our own art house theaters (the Siskel Center, the Music Box) where smaller/foreign films get a showing. Is it impossible to put together an art-house distribution for venues like these in Chicago and other markets?

In any case, I'm looking forward to seeing your film when it's out on DVD.

By: Paula

Paula — Wed, 10 Oct 2007 18:20:49 +0000

John,

I'm still regretting that I didn't introduce myself to you at the WGA Publicity panel. I was impressed then with how proactive you've been in shaping your own career. As I prepare for the second act of my own nascent career, you stand as a shining example of what can happen when you think smart and work hard. I'm sorry The Nines didn't get wider distribution, but I know it won't be the last we see of you in the Director's chair. Godspeed.

By: Lars

Lars — Wed, 10 Oct 2007 18:16:48 +0000

Yanel (#11), wouldn't the sequel obviously be The Tens? Or: The Two Nines, Re-Nined, or maybe Nine Nines for a Nineluja.

I really should stop now, before it's too late...