Sundance 2011 Video: Kevin Smith At Red State Premiere – Changing Indie Film

It’s clear, that Kevin Smith’s Red State is the film that everyone’s talking about out at this year’s Sundance Film Festival. Not only was the film itself worth talking about, but so was Smith’s performance at the premiere/would-be-auction that was supposed to take place at the event. Though the film is a thriller that takes on the touchy subject of religious conservatives and there were a bunch of protestors at the screening — what people seem to be up in arms about is what Smith said after his film. Luckily we were there to capture the drama for you….

Not only was the film the talk of the town but Smith’s “auction” of the movie is what really shook everyone up. Instead of allowing a major studio’s independent branch to acquire Red State for distribution, he decided to do it himself. he also announced that he won’t be doing press for the film (like press wouldn’t be covering his every move) nor letting anyone touch the film that he has said “only I can sell.”

If you missed this grand moment don’t worry, we’ve got it all on video! Watch the whole thing below…

Part 1:

Smith started with his usual self-depricating jokes and got the crowd in a good mode for the film to come. As usual, even his short intro took a bit of time.  When he came back he talked about it for a bit and then, held the auction…

Part 2:

This is the part that I really find interesting, “never give up a good thing.” Here he talks about what indie filmmakers are forced to do to get their films out there, the system of selling a films and how corrupt it is, and how much money is spent to release films and how little the filmmakers make. So now with his success why he’s going to take on the release of this film himself…

Part 3:

And now, the big shocker and when Smith starts pissing people off…

Fuck yeah! Now this is what Independent film is about, breaking boundaries!

Part 4:

Any now for the plan. “The Red State USA Tour” kicking off March 5th…

Part 5:

No hard feelings, just burning some bridges. This is why it’s important for him to say “fuck off” and why he, unlike other indie filmmakers starting out, is able to take such a risk and hopefully break new ground…

Part 6:

Wrapping it up and bringing out a few members of the stellar cast…

Also Checkout ScreenCrave’s Red State Review, and more news regarding the distribution of the movie by Kevin Smith himself!***