thanks for explaining your thought process behind this, Julie. I know that a lot of hard core fans of the show may have been questioning your decision to turn this beloved musical into a film, but your reasoning and the way you held out for everything to be just perfectly in place makes great sense and now I simply cannot wait to see the film!! keep blogging!

Thanks for your beautiful post. I've become familiar with RENT only recently and am very grateful to have this chance to see the original cast.

Thank you for taking your time to post and tell us about your decision to make a movie. Please keep us updated.
God Bless

Angela

w00t! Sounds awesome. Can't wait for this movie. I've had the awesome privilege of seeing it at that Neder two days in a row, so the movie is making me excited. Keep up the great work, all of you, and thanks Julie, and the rest of the cast and crew for all your work.

As a long time, HUGE fan of RENT, I was thrilled and apprehensive about it being made into a movie. All my fears were alleviated when I found out that most of the OBC were coming back to be in it. I knew they would stay true to Jon's vision because they had been there through it with him. And now, especially that his family was involved, it makes it all the more better.
Thanks for allowing it to be shared with many people, people don't live near theatres.

p.s. I just saw Tick Tick Boom in Toronto, and I thought it was amazing. Jonathan is truly an inspiration!

Thanks, I'm sure you guys will do a great job with the movie. I'm sure Jonathan would be very proud if he was still alive today. He's been a great inspiration to me, and I hope to be half the genious he was.

Hi, Julie, thank you so much for taking the time to post. I just wanted to let you know (this is kind of dumb) that tomorrow I'm giving my senior project on Jonathon and how his life affected the creation of RENT. Your brother has inspired me to be a playwright, and nothing means more to me than to be able to tell you that.

Thank you for your thoughts. I know I'm not the only one who appreciates how respectfully the community of RENT fans is being treated by everyone who is working on this movie. It's amazing that this project already feels positive and special for me and I haven't even seen a teaser trailer! Keep up the wonderful work.

The first time I saw RENT was last year in August, and it was and still is the most amzing expierence of my life. I could not believe how the show touched me, making me laugh, cry, and want to dance, all at the same time.
When I borrowed the book from the library, and found out Jon had died many years earlier, I was devastated. It gave the show even more meaning when I went back in September and saw it again. (I live in Chicago, by the way. I flew out to New York to see it)
Being a dancer, singer, and an actress myself, I was just blown away by the amazing combination of music, song, and dance in the show, as well as the talent of the actors. The cast I saw included Jai Rodriguez (who was why I saw the show in the first place), Jeremy Kushnier, Matt Caplan, and Melanie Brown. Every other time has been just as good though.
It's a great thing to see this coming together, especially on today, which is my birthday! So thanks so much for all you've done!

It really means a lot to have you posting here and sharing your thoughts on this movie with us. Most fans are still very apprehensive about this being turned into a film, but over the last 7 months, just things here and there have made me more at ease. This post you've made is another one of those things.

Thank you, thank you, THANK YOU for taking the time to do this. We may never know what Jonathan wanted for this, but I do believe that he's with you all every day, watching over the set and the production of the film. I do believe HE'S the one that sent Mr. Columbus to your family, and that HE'S the one that made Mr. Columbus go to most of the original Broadway cast about doing the movie. I believe that everything happens for a reason and knowing that makes me more excited every day for this film to be released to the world. :)

Julie - I cannot begin to imagine what a strange ride this has been for you and your family. All I know is that I am lucky to be on the receiving end of your brother's work. Though I must say that I had been skeptical of a movie version, I'm so glad to hear that Jonathan's family and friends think that Chris Columbus "gets it". RENT has meant so much to me through the years - I can only hope that the movie brings the show's powerful message to an even wider audience.

Julie,
Rent has been a part of my life for years now. A big part of my life. I'm sure many know what I mean when I say that it permanently changed me as a person, and that the message inspires me every day.
Although I was apprehensive at first when I heard about the film, my fears were relieved when I heard about the casting, but mostly, when I heard about your involvement. Thanks for helping to ensure that the message gets out there. I'm so thrilled that a wider audience will be given the opportunity to appreciate Jonathan and understand Rent's message.

ty so much for posting! getting an inside scoop on the movie from the actors, finally, is SO amazing! i'm literally salivating over this debut. all the details you give sound great. i can't wait! improve on the original recording? it seems almost impossible! you all were so amazing the first time around. but i know this will be 10x greater than anything i could imagine. please keep posting!

Julie,
Your presence on the set, along with your dad, and your intimate involvement in the film is, as you say, meant to happen, and has happened for a reason.
I had that feeling the moment I saw you on the set and had the privilege of meeting you.
Thank you for honoring us and the world by inaugurating this blog/official movie website for RENT. All the best, always.
~Richard

Wow. Thanks for that, Julie. I'm so excited for this film to happen, even though I honestly admit that I... well, wasn't always so receptive, as a really big fan of the show. I'm so appreciative for all of the heart that's going into this film, for how carefully it's being handled - your presence, as well as that of your father in incredible, important and impactful. The fact that you're comfortable with it is wonderful and reassuring, and I only hope that the days until November go by quickly. Keep us updated!

Thank you for the lovely letter to us (or blog, whichever you want to call it). You knew how Jonathan wanted it and I am so, so, so glad that you play such a tremendous part in the movie and making it how you knew your brother wanted it to be. You are definitely a blessing. God bless!

Julie, I am so excited for you and happy at the way this film has come about. Thank you so much for being willing to share your experience with us. This has been a long time coming and like you said, it feels like it's right now. We are all cheering you on! --an old Unky pal

Thank you for your post and your thoughts on the whole process of making the movie. You have been such a big inspiration to all of us Rent and Jothanan fans. You're such a blessing and encouragement. Much love to you and your family. Hope to hear more from you. Thanks!!

Julie, I truly appreciate the comment you posted about your brother and the decision to make the movie. It is wonderful and beautiful that you have utilized your brother's emphasis on NOT living in fear into spreading the message of this genius genius genius masterpiece. Since 2002, when I was first introduced to RENT, I have mourned the loss of your brother and what other masterpieces he might have given to us from his heart. Also a huge fan of Tick Tick Boom, I only hope that this film will truly convey Jonathan's message. Other than that, I'm more excited about this film than anything, and thank you for staying strong throughout the history of RENT.

Julie,

I know that just by taking the moment to consider "what Jonathan would want," you are paying that tribute to him. His show has made such an impact on the world and it is astonishing to think that it can now live on forever in film. He has touched so many of us all with his work! Thank you.

God bless your family! Keep up the posts.

Congratulations on getting the approval for the film and for sharing it with the considerable audience (dare I call it a legion?) of fans via this blog.

And of course, it goes without saying although this phenomenon is a huge tribute to Jonathan's life and work, it also creates a new sense of what kind of talent contemporary theater lost with your brother's passing.

And madd kudos to you and the producers for recasting the original cast members who made the show itself so memorable. Looking forward to the film! http://estherkustanowitz.typepad.com

Julie, thank you so much for keeping Jonathan's memory alive. I just recently found the "Rent" book/libretto in my school library and I have read it from cover to cover. Reading about the way that Rent came together was amazing and everyone of us fans is blessed to have received such a special gift from your brother. God bless you and yours.

That is so sweet! God bless, Juile!
I've never seen RENT, so I can't say too much about it, but I love everyone involved in it! Hooray Idina, Adam, Taye, and everyone else!!
I hope I can see the movie...
GO RENT!!!

I saw RENT just before it left Toronto and it really helped contextualize several issues for me. It's not necessarily just about AIDS, or fighting corruption and rampant commercialism; It's a play that teaches each of us to reach deep down to make our dreams come true. Find your passion and follow it. The world keeps on turning, so, the truth is no day but today!

My best friend and I love to sing along to the CD in the car. I look forward to creating a whole new set of memories with this film. RENT has already given me so much in my life. But most of all it has helped me give something back to the world. Through RENT, I have learned how to love.

Thanks.
Rye
http://ryestar.blogspot.com

Love the post Julie. I'm glad you put in thought about Jonathan's opinion when you were deciding on this. I'm hoping the movie will be a sucess just like Jonathan would want it. Good Luck!

I'm sure he would be happy. It must have been really hard at first but I'm glad you made this decision too ^-^
Take care God Bless
~ Lindsey C. ~

It is so reassuring that you are so supportive of this movie. You brother's work has inspired and enriched so many people's lives,and it is truly in capable and trustworthy hands! Best wishes to you and your family!

Rent is just a dream that speaks everyday language. Jonathan Larson gave us that dream and now you all guys are sending it back to him! You're blessed from above

Thank you for taking this chance.
I feel so connected to this show and Jon even- in some strange way because I know how much of him is in his work. The music is away and I thank you for taking the "leap of faith".
I haven't been worried about how the movie will effect things. If the story of RENT and the music in RENT are shared- there can't be a lot of wrong done.
I am so inspired by Jon and the ideals RENT and tick,tick,boom hold. Thank you for all that you have done to make Jon's dreams- others as well.

Just a quick note, I don't want to bore you to death or anything, LOL! I've been a HUGE fan of your brother and his work for many years now. It's a crying shame that he's not here with us today to experience his work being turned into a major motion picture! Back in 1999 I wrote a letter to Mr. Larson (sounds cheesy, I know, but I'm weird like that) and I told him that I was going to be Mark Cohen in a production of RENT someday. I told him that I was going to make him proud and I'd be the best Mark Cohen there ever was. (Well, second best, of course!) I often pull that letter out of the shoebox I keep it in to remind myself not to get side tracked and to continue to pursue my dream. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for writing this blog and keeping us RENT fans in the "know."

I just want to thank you, your brother and everyone else involved in this amazing piece of history. My mother saw RENT around the time when it first opened and she was always telling me about how amazing it was and playing the soundtrack constantly. I got to see it both in Toronto and in New York a few years later and I think it is just beautiful. The music and story bring tears to my eyes and I think this is one musical that needs to be brought to the big screen, not to commercialize it, but to spread its powerful message. And to prepare for seeing the movie, I'm going to see it again this summer in New York! Thanks again.

Hey Anthony!!!

So glad you're keeping in touch with the RENT fans once again! I read about all the ways you used to communicate with them in the original run, that is very cool.

I'm so glad its you playing Mark!! You of all the OBC are the one I would have had the hardest time without in the film. You ARE Mark to me, accept no substitutions ;)

Been a fan of RENT from almost the beginning, so I am very excited so many of the originals are back.

I've also been a fan of yours in all your movies, ever since I was 4 when I saw you in Adventures in Babysitting.

In fact it was you who first sparked an interest in RENT for me, of course then I fell in love with everything about it.

anyway so excited that you are in this project, and thanks for thinking of us fans ;)

Looking very forward to opening day!

Julie,

I am so sorry I accidentally posted my reply to Anthony on your blog (above) that was an accident.

I do want to thank you for your time posting here, and all of the love and time you have put into your brothers pheneomenal legacy!

I greatly look forward to how the project will turn out!

Congratulations for the movie!

Julie, when I learned that your so-talented brother died after going from emergency room to emergency room with an undiagnosed aortic dissection, I cried all over again for him, his family, his friends. The tears that were so heavy down my face and in my heart for the loss of my son, Richard Lawrence, age 35, theater as his avocation, due to his undiagnosed aortic dissection in 1995, has lessened a bit, but never truly goes away. His sister and other family members and friends miss him terribly. I was so very happy when your parents began funding various hospital emergency rooms on how to diagnose aortic dissections. I wonder how this project is going.

Perhaps as the movie RENT is enjoyed by more and more people, as was the play, an educational small mention can be made at the end about where to learn more about aortic dissections. What do you and your family think about this?

I know how much your brother meant to you, your family and his wide, loving circle of friends and acquaintances.

I also know how much he ached for people to hear his songs and how hard he worked to create musical theater that spoke to a new generation. Music is a universal language.

"Glory" still makes me cry every time I hear it because it IS Jon's anthem. Rent on film means his music and messages of hope and love connect with many more people around the world.

And we need his message of love and hope in these troubled times.

Fear or Love, which do you prefer? Actions speak louder than words.

Anglea,
Anthony,
I'm so thrilled that a friend refered me to this web site! Tomorrow evening I will be leaving on a flight to San Francisco! As my wish with the "Make A Wish Foundation" I will be playing an extra in filming Monday May 23rd and Tuesday 24th! I am absolutely overjoyed for the experience yet to come!!! The theme of simply taking life and living for the day is exactly how I live my life and I could not be more happy to be a part of such an amazing project! I hope we'll get to meet!
See you soon! :)

- Emily

julie,
i just wanted to say thank you so much. thank you for allowing us into the world of rent. thank you to your family for making this movie possible.
for my final speech in public speaking this year, we had the topic of impactful person and i choose jonathan. because he is exactly that. his words and music have impacted me so much in my 19 yrs of life. i held a whole classroom of college students captive for 12 minutes telling the story of rent and how it has influenced me. i would not be the same without it.
many thanks!
-natalie

Julie,
A dream is coming true...the creation of RENT the movie. I had the great privilege of visiting the set a couple of weeks ago and was told it was the only day you weren’t there. What an honor it would have been to meet you and thank you for your brother’s and yoru family’s gift. But I must say, it was wonderful to hear all the amazing things the cast and crew had to say about you. Your brother’s play changed my life. When I lived in New York I couldn’t afford to go to any Broadway shows, but my roommate’s parents took us to see RENT. I went and camped out 4 other times to see it (my mom with me once, which was one of my greatest memories with her). Because of RENT I decided to go after my dreams and moved to California. The night before I moved I went to see the original cast one more time and sobbed the rest of the night. The thought of never getting to see those amazing actors all together again was heart-breaking. To now know that they will be on film and eventually DVD, carrying out that same talent and passion, is a dream come true.

It’s touching to read how much your brother’s creation has touched so many people. Thank you and to your family for making this movie happen. And to all you fans, the movie is going to blow you away!!

I really appreciate you giving us your thoughts about the movie. At first I was afraid that the movie might get changed, but after hearing that the OBC, Chris Columbus, and you and your family were involved in this my attitude changed. Thank you so much for giving the show the opportunity to be shared with more than just people who see the show on Broadway. I have seen it on Broadway, and I loved the show, and everything about it. Now I am extremely excited about Rent being in movie theatres and on video/DVD because I can watch it and listen to it. Thank you again for your involvement.
Love,
Meghan

Dear Julie,
I am writing to you all from the other side of the ocean to let you know the impact your brother and this show really had on the rest of the world. I playes Joanne in the orginal Swedish production of Rent in the years 2001, 2002 and 2003. In Stockholm, on tour and in Gothenburg, over 200 shows, - alot in a country of only 9 million people. My parents aren´t Swedish and my mom is from New York, so I had seen the show years before, back in 1996 as a 15 year old and dreamed of being a part of it, and so it was a few years later, since i was ahard working singer in Sweden, that I got asked to be in the Stockholm production. We had the most amazing time, huge success, great reviews - it´s like it´s impossible to fail with this show, It really brings people together. Both in the cast and in the audience. And for most of the cast and all the people involved - being in the show really changed our lives.. All for the better. Anyway, I came to live in NY in 2003 for awhile and answered and ad for a roommate apartment space, and to make along story short, I ended up living with a woman named Joanne on the corner of 11th and Ave A. Sooooo weird! Finally lived that life fore real, just for a while. Also met Michael Grief at a gig I had, I had 5 days in NY before I had to go home for a tour, and he insisted I should audition for the American show,..so he called, and I did. Even back in Stockholm a few days later and still today, Rent and being involved with that show, from falling in love with it in 1996 til today has had the hugest impact on my life. I talk about it alot at my concerts and gigs here in Sweden, so just remember, you have a big family - ALL OVER THE WORLD! Good Luck with the film, and the ongoing journey of Rent. Sarah Dawn Finer www.sarahfiner.com

I work in the Times Square area and can see the Nederlander theatre from my building. I've seen the show 7 times with various casts and actors and am one of many who love to listen to the Broadway cast CDs. But more than anything else, I'd like to add to the other posts here that we RENT fans will finally get to show our friends who we haven't yet convinced to see the show to see what we've been raving about for so long. ;-) So Chris and the cast and Julie and the rest of Jonathan's family, thank you for that!!! Julie, it's an honor just to be able to send you a message. Your brother was and will always be an Angel for us all. --Sean

I just wanted to take a moment to thank you for allowing this movie to happen. I've been a huge fan of Rent for ages, ever since I first got ahold of a cd of the original cast recording, but have never been fortunate enough to see the play for myself. And even though a movie can't quite compare to the experiance of live theater, I'm still very happy for the opportunity to finally be able to see something that I love so dearly.

Wow. Julie.

I can only imagine what you and your family must have been/be going through. This must have brought back a lot of memories. And when the show first came out...you didn't even have time to let a tear slide all the way down your cheek. Just...know, I am behind you. Every other RENThead is behind you. And behind this project.

I'm actually listening to Rent right now. Of course. Light my Candle at the moment.

I'm going to see this film at LEAST 3 and a half billion times (no...more...) at when I'm NOT watching it, I'll be listening to its sountrack or the Broadway sountrack or it will be playing in my head. Like it does now.

I wish I had the opportunity to know Mr. Larson and be touched by him. His work has DEFINITELY touched and changed and shaped me, and if anything, I wish I could thank him for that.

Thank YOU, for growing up with him, and helping to make him the person he was. I'm sure you brought a lot to the show through Jonathon.

Love Always and Forever,
~Serena~

well i have to say i have seen this show about a BAJILLION times! i am in love with all the characters.....especially IDINA! i also saw Wicked a lot....so yea im a bit of a broadway phanatic! i am sooo excited for this movie...if it is half as good and the show...it will be an instant hit!!! THANKS AGAIN AND LOVE TO ALL!

Dearest Julie,
I have just come upon this blog, but I am not the least bit a stranger to your brother's brilliance. The very first week that RENT opened, I was so privileged to be there in the audience. Nine years later, my life has been forever changed; so moved by the love and compassion that Jonathan devoted to his work, enlightened by the talent and pure truth that each character evokes, and I'm terribly grateful for the wonderful mastermind who had the courage to bring to the surface what most people fear to even THINK! Words do not suffice, Julie...really- The complex associations of RENT produce such an array of feelings; These emotions for me are ALL SO SACRED.
When I heard a Hollywood movie would be made when the idea was first introduced, I was a bit upset or irritated. Concerned that the dignity & dramatic essence of RENT might fade, no way could I imagine Jonathan's dream "let go." Well, as the release for RENT, the movie, nears, it is quite obvious that it will uphold the respect! The fabulous, dedicated souls who will ALWAYS be the stature of Jonathan's message have committed to the motion picture & I cannot wait. Having met THE ORIGINAL CAST & many others, they are FABULOUS!
-Wishing you love and strength, Julie-- XoXO

Julie: I wish I could articulate what this film means to me. RENT has been such a part of my life that I cannot imagine myself without it. I even taught my high school students the musical in comparison to La Boheme and they loved it, too. I have listened to the original cast thousands of times, but the opportunity to see them in their roles is golden. Thank you for giving Christopher Columbus (one of my favorite directors anyway) the chance to give Jonathan even more Glory.
-Cathy

thank you for taking the time to post. I honestly get really teary-eyed whenever I read about Jonathan, I dont know why, maybe it's because I look up to him so much and just think he's one of the most amazing people that I've never gotten to know. Youre extremely lucky to have known him, and i'm glad that you decided to make a movie of RENT it will be amazing, i'm sure.

Dear Julie,

My name is Peter Tamalonis and I am a double major in Theater and History at Hartwick College.
I've also grew up in Chappaqua, NY not to far from White Plains. I am a huge fan of the show. In 1995 my older sister took me to see RENT soon after it had come out. After the show we talked to some of the original cast. Since then I have sen the show about 10 times.
I think that it's great that RENT is being made into a movie with the Original Cast, for all of the people who never saw it. I even thing that it will encourage more people to go see it on stage. The story is so powerful especially with the passing of your brother. I'm sure that Jonathan Larson would have loved to seen Moulin Rouge, and La Bohem by Baz Luhmen.

Thank you for posting on this blog. I saw the tour of RENT in Albuquerque and it took my breath away. Later I found out about Jon's death from aortic dissection. To me it was one of the most incredible coincidences of my life because I myself have Marfan Syndrome. I was fortunately diagnosed when I was four years old because I had horrible eyesight, and since then I've had yearly visits to cardiologists to monitor my heart. I hope that RENT continues to touch lives as it has mine.

RENT....my first musical :) (thanks Andy) and what an amazing way to start a fascination for musicals of course no other can beat it!

Rent’s magic is that in one way or another we have experienced any of the situations in it the songs are great…so great that in more that one time I dropped a tear (ok, cried) thinking of somebody close, somebody gone or the person you are willing to get their love always living life at it’s best not wasting any minute of it and never ever give up!

I have learned there is “no day but today” don’t let the opportunity to show love to the ones you care pass by and also give it for whoever needs it. It is funny how there is no day that one of the songs comes up to my mind specially having the movie coming soon.
There are no words to describe the incredible job Jonathan did with it and thanks so much Julie for continuing his work my life has changed a lot because of you guys.

For sure the movie is going to be a success, everybody has worked so hard in this project and you have an amazing director and cast so that is the least to expect.

Wine and Beer!

Luis

I had the honor of meeting your brother, and being there for the opening night of rent on broadway. It was a night amazing accomplishment and great sorrow. It was an experience that I still think of every day. When I saw the first trailer for the movie I watched it over and over. I love the idea that I can now share with my husband the amazing artistry that was your brothers work. The movie will be great because it was always about the music, lyrics, and meaning. Thank you for allowing this to be made.

Hi Julie,
Thank you for the beautiful posts and having the movie come along. The first time I heard of Rent was over a year ago, when I first heard of Broadway. I love the music and bought it right away. Then, last october I had the best experience of seeing the tour. Now, with this movie I can share with everyone what I had experienced. This movie, I can guarentee, will move the nation, or at least my friends. I've missed Rent so much, since I'm not allowed to go to NY. I can't express how much I love Rent and how much I've changed since seeing it. I think everyone changes in some way when they see Jonathan's work.
Much love, and God bless
Madysen

P.S. in 2 weeks I'm doing a book report on Rent the book, and will read this post of yours, and change other's lives. :)

You are the sweetest sister I think any brother could have hoped for! When I first heard that the movie was coming out It rekindled my fanship... I totally think you made the right decision. This is beyond exciting. When the show came to town the first few times, I bought the cd and I used to picture what rent would look like off the stage and actually in a New York setting, it was amazing, but the trailers were exacting. All the spirit of Rent and more....I cant wait for the film!

Julie,

I wish I could tell you that there was no need to make RENT into a movie. I wish I could tell you that RENT was outdated and unrelevent to us. I wish I could tell you that we found a cure for AIDS and people were no longer dying and leaving friends and family behind. I wish I could tell you that people have opened up and stopped hiding from what is actually happening to people on the same streets we live on. Unfortunately I can't. Unfortunately we live in the same time and live with the same issues your brother brought to the forefront so many years ago. What a brave man. You should be so proud. I saw the movie on Tuesday and I couldn't believe how powerful the whole movie was. Like you, I was worried that the movie would lose some of the emotion brought on by the powerful music and blunt reality. If anything, making the movie into a film has only enhanced the important parts that could possibly get underappreciated in a stage production. I believe the movie has the ability to open so many more peoples eyes to the realities many ignore in our own cities. Thank you for supporting this. I wish your family a happy holidays and thank you again.

You are such an incredible human being. You have surrived extraoridnary situations.
When my friends and I saw your name during "Seasons of Love" we all let out a little happy squeal, to know you had something to do with it. You are amazing.

Julie,
you are so incredible. After producing the movie and helping the broadway production make it so far, you should be really proud. Rent means more to me than almost anything in my life and I thank you and your family for giving me something so special to love so much. I think I speak on behalf of all the Rentheads out there, thank you for all this. When I am old enough (I'm only fifteen!), I am going to become a huge supporter of the Jonathan Larson Foundation and move to NYC so that I can see Rent every single night. So please, never let it stop showing...NEVER!
-La Vie Boheme-
Thank you so much.

I'm so late to the blog boards as I've just found them, but I have to say thank you Larson family. This is such a wonderful experience that I have honestly not gotten from any other movie or even other medium.