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May 23, 2005

I'd Like To Welcome You To The Rent Blog by Chris Columbus (Director)


Watch Chris Columbus's Video Entry:
 
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Comments

Hey it's great to see you talking to us directly! Although you didn't speak on Access Hollywood, I could see in your eyes the enthusiasm you have for this project. I can't wait to see it. Reading about it and discussing it with other people has made my last year of college (a very stressful time in anyone's life but especially in this economy) much easier to swallow. I hope you have a blast in the postproduction phase and that people are complimenting you on your looks daily (sorry, had to slip that in here). Directors aren't supposed to be this cute! You should schedule your own publicity photo op along with the cast later this year.

Posted by: Ramon on 05/23/05 at 04:41 PM

Hey Mr. Columbus,

I cannot tell you how excited I am for this movie. I am only 16 and i live in Chicago so I havne't seen RENT live despite how badly i want to, so i think it is great that you guys are doing a film version, so kids like me can see it. Finally. It sounds like it is going to be a great film, thanks for putting up the blog too. Kids like me who want to go into theatre and film really love to read these (I am trying not to reference myself so much if you can't tell haha) and it really means a lot to me (there we go again me me me) that you guys update and keep us informed. WEll I am rambling, so I will just post this comment, score for being the first one. I really can't wait for this film.

Peace, love, and thanks
Madeline H.

Posted by: madeline on 05/23/05 at 04:47 PM

thank you so much for this video!! it's so exciting to get to see bits and pieces of this film before it's made! we all appreciate your blogs!

Posted by: Becky on 05/23/05 at 05:11 PM

Keep us informed, indeed! Can't wait for the film and future blog entries!

Posted by: Andrew on 05/23/05 at 05:14 PM

It's great that a film production is choosing to document their progress for adoring fans. The video format is a really nice touch, Mr. Columbus! The inclusion of Julie Larson's comments was also a good move - adding a personal dimension to the creation of a film. I do sincerely hope that this page will be a successful one and that all those involved will use this medium as a method to examine their "process".

Now, only one complaint! Tell us more! For example, what's going on at the set that's driving you crazy? Toughest scene to film? Most surprising moment?

Wishing you all continued success with the filming and beyond. Looks great so far!

Posted by: marlen on 05/23/05 at 05:30 PM

I'm now even more thrilled to see this movie. It seems everyone, from the OBC to the newcomers to the director is really happy and loving this film. Makes me proud to be a RENThead and able to completely understand this movie, yet it seems even those who never saw the show can love the amazing work it is. JOYS! Can't wait til November.

Posted by: Bethy on 05/23/05 at 05:36 PM

Mr. Columbus, I have seen RENT several times and am quite proud to call myself a RENThead. I was at first skeptical of bringing RENT to the screen, but am now counting the days. Everything I have seen and heard regarding this film seem flawless, and I truly cannot wait to see RENT in a very different way this November. I would like to thank you and everyone involved in the production of RENT for staying so true to the message of the play. You are all wonderful :)

Alix

Posted by: Alix on 05/23/05 at 06:09 PM

Fantastic site. I can't wait to see the trailer, let alone the film. And any director smart enough to add Tracie Thoms to the cast is a genius. She was great on Wonderfalls. The snippets on Access Hollywood look great and this blog is awesome.. Viva la vie boheme!

Posted by: neil on 05/23/05 at 06:10 PM

Whoa - a video! Thank you so much for that! Everything with this movie seems to be coming together amazingly and I just cannot wait until November.

Keep up all the great work! You're doing fab!

Posted by: Jackie on 05/23/05 at 06:35 PM

OMG! I am soooo excited! you have no idea...well, you might, cause you seem pretty psyched yourself! But I just wanted to say how happy I am that there is this blog! i can't wait till the movie comes out! YAY!

Posted by: Jessica on 05/23/05 at 06:42 PM

Mr. Columbus (Chris?),
This is awesome! It is just too amazing. I love the soundtrack to Rent and even though I've never seen the show, I am so excited for the movie. I loved your work in Harry Potter. If the movie is going half as well as I'm hearing that it is, it should be wonderful. I really look forward to this movie and I'm glad that everything is going so well. I'm really grateful for the cast and crew who keep us Rentheads informed. I would seriously die of curiosity if it weren't for these blogs. You don't know who psyched I am for this movie! How is it working with Anthony Rapp and Idina Menzel? I've absolutely loved Anthony since I listened to the "You're a good man, Charlie Brown" soundtrack and I've loved Idina since I listened to the "Wicked" soundtrack. I'm really grateful that Rent is being made into a movie because it really gives me an opportunity to complete my Rent experience. I mean, the soundtrack is amazing and everything but there's just something missing. I think once I actually see all the musical numbers with the dancing and acting, it'll be like finally getting to see a friend who you haven't seen in years. I am forever grateful for all the hard work that I'm sure the cast and crew is putting into no only this production but also keeping the fans informed. I can't wait to see the finished product; I'm sure it'll be spectacular. All the best and my admiration and appreciation.
-Crystal

Posted by: Crystal on 05/23/05 at 06:48 PM

Chris,

I am such an admirer of your work, and it is phenomenal to see what you are doing with this movie and a show we all care so much about -- I'm a film student in LA, and so I'm trying to follow the progress of this film closely to learn as much about the process as possible. I hope to work with you someday on one of your productions, and I wish you and the cast the best of luck as you wrap up shooting and begin post work. This film will be remarkable and a breakthrough, just like the theatre musical was. I'm proud to see you at the helm.

All the best and appreciation,
Kim

Posted by: Kim Johnstone on 05/23/05 at 07:18 PM

I am so excited about this movie. I had my doubts about it because I want this movie to be as great as it was on stage. This blog has definately made me feel better about it.

Posted by: Carla on 05/23/05 at 08:13 PM

Mr. Columbus-

Thank you!!!!!!!
I must say, I've heard only good things about this movie, and I have faith that this movie will be excellent! Thank you again, for this movie, for this blog, for everything.

-Mia
P.S. Madeleine! Much love from a 15 (and 1/2) year old Renthead who's also from Chicago! :D

Posted by: Mia on 05/23/05 at 09:07 PM

Mr Columbus,

what s a huge challenge to lead this project while respecting the messages and the style of this amazing musical.
I m 33y old and I m french. I really hope that we ll be here able to watch the movie in europe!!
I saw the musical in NY few years ago and it was the strongest "souvenir;-)" of this trip.
will it be possible to feel again this energy???
I m dreaming...
very good luck!

Posted by: stef F on 05/24/05 at 07:12 AM

THANX!!!
ok, so getting real excited now, i have a slight case of the squees (as my sister puts it)
I unfortunately live in England, and am 16 so have never seen Rent live, so this is a great thing your doing- letting us finally see it!

Posted by: luceecool on 05/24/05 at 10:38 AM

I hope it is coming along as nicely as we are led to believe. I'm sure it is. Blessed be.

Posted by: Colleen on 05/24/05 at 01:09 PM

I, too, wsa skeptical about 'Rent' being put in movie form, I saw it live a few times, but the more I read about it the more excited I get. AND to have Jesse L. Martin back with the original cast is just icing on the cake!! Can't wait to see it.

Posted by: Angela on 05/24/05 at 01:21 PM

Thank you Chris and everyone else who is involved with making this movie happen. I love RENT with all of my heart. And i think that it is soo great that you are all making this movie with not only Jonathan in mind, but us RENTheads. Thanks again.

Posted by: Nigel Jamaal Clark on 05/24/05 at 02:22 PM

WOW! Thank you so much for taking the time to send a video in. It's so wonderful to see how much you and the cast care about this film and about the fans. Hope to see more soon!
-chelsea
ps good luck with filming!

Posted by: chelsea on 05/24/05 at 02:54 PM

Let me just say that this blog is probably one of the greatest ideas I have ever encountered and I cannot WAIT for November to roll around since, being stuck in West PA, I have not had the chance to see the show on stage (though a friend and I will be attempting it this summer.)

Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. ^_^

-MaryAnn

Posted by: MaryAnn on 05/24/05 at 04:09 PM

All I have to say is that I'm so excited for this movie and I have total faith in what you guys are doing. Thank you so much for this site. It's so amazing to see how much you've done already. This story is near and dear to my heart, so thanks for making it happen. Good luck on filming!

Posted by: Monika on 05/24/05 at 06:05 PM

I have been waiting for this to happen since the first time I saw the show, which was around 7 years ago. I have seen it many times since and have dreamed of the day my favorite show would be brought to the big screen. Especially with the most of the OBC. I LOVE the show and am eagerly anticipating the opening of the movie. I CAN'T WAIT !!!

Posted by: Lily on 05/24/05 at 07:04 PM

Mr. Columbus:

How thrilling it is to see you address this blog directly...it means a great deal to me that you know we're out here and how much we look forward to seeing the movie version of Rent.

We will wait, tho none to patiently(!) for November and look forward to the information you can share with us.

Thank you so much for addressing us through your video.

Sincerely,
Bobbie

Posted by: Bobbie on 05/24/05 at 09:39 PM

thanks so much for the quick clip mr. columbus! can't wait to see more! you are making so many of us patient fans out here ELATED with this movie. keep that inspiration and creativity going! you're amazing!

Posted by: nuri on 05/24/05 at 11:27 PM

Mr. Columbus,

I think the video blog idea is fantabulous. Even knowing about bits and pieces of the motion picture RENT is so cool.

I am 14, and I live in New York. The idea of making RENT into a movie was doubted by my friends and I at first, but then we realized how wonderful it would be. By making RENT into a movie, you're spreading Jonathan Larson's message throughout the world, and it's a wonderful thing.

I am extremely excited about this movie, seriously, you couldn't imagine my enthusiasm. Quite a few of my friends at school and a few of my teachers are counting down to November 11th, and we just preformed Seasons of Love at our chorus concert, so we're having fun waiting it out, no matter how far away it is.

Thanks for doing this for all of us anxious RENTheads out here in New York. We are patiently (well, thats a bit of a strong word.....) waiting this out and we cannot wait until November 11th!!!

Posted by: Megan on 05/25/05 at 12:54 PM

Thanks for taking time out of your busy scheduale to give us info. I hope you update soon and keep up the good work!

Posted by: Aria on 05/25/05 at 01:59 PM

Thank you so much for doing this wonderful thing! i'll admit i was a bit nervous at the idea at first but the thought of being able to watch Rent any time i want in my own home is just amazing; i have seen the show 4 times already and i dont think i will ever stop loving it. Thank you so much!!

Posted by: Glori Blatt-Eisengart on 05/25/05 at 03:50 PM

Mr. Columbus,

Thank you thank you THANK YOU for making this film and staying true to its spirit.

Heather

Posted by: Heather on 05/25/05 at 06:22 PM

God, (Is it ok if I call you that?)

I can't even begin to express to you how grateful I am that you've gotten this movie off the ground and onto the big screen! For years us RENTheads have been teased about this; only to be letdown later. As far as I'm concerned, you're GOD...I'm not joking, LOL! Because this is a real miracle that you were able to make this happen. This musical/play isn't exactly "Chicago" or "The Phantom of the Opera;" which were both HUGE shows that hade HUGE followings. "RENT" is a bit more, ummm, err, well...unconventional and I don't know how much $$$ you guys are gonna get out of it. But what I can tell you is that I'm proud of you for making sure the original broadway cast was brought in for this film. All those lame rumors about Justin Timberlake and Christina Aguilera made me wanna puke...no joke...that would have sucked! You guys would ahve sold more tickets and made millions more than you're going to with the cast you chose. But guess what that would have made you? A total f'ing sellout! So thank you for not selling out. Thank you for making this movie because you had passion for it and it's message. And most importantly...thanks for risking it all so that us RENTheads could die happy! You're truly a remarkable man and I can't thank you enough for making this film. 11/11/05 can't come fast enough, I'm probably going to sleep outside the local movie theatre the night before it opens, just so I can see the first showing. And I'll probably see it 10 times a day until I can't stand it anymore, LOL! Thanks again GOD A.K.A. Mr. Columbus...you are MY God! ;)

Posted by: Mr. Columbus Is God! on 05/25/05 at 06:25 PM

Hey CHRIS!!! YOU ROCK!!

When are we going to see a trailer? Us die-hard RENT fans are going crazy here!

Posted by: Kelli on 05/26/05 at 07:09 AM

Thanks for the update! I, too, was hesitant about making 'Rent' into a movie (yes, I'm a "RENThead"! I've seen it live twice, and listen to the soundtrack at LEAST once a month, so I'm getting excited about the movie! Good luck, and you have a FANTASTIC cast. The movie will be the bomb, I'm sure!

Posted by: Angela on 05/26/05 at 01:01 PM

Thanks for taking the time to post...as well as take on such a wonderful project! headin to santa fe by any chance? heard rumors ya were but ya know how rumors are! thanks again for keeping us posted! we can hardly wait to see the final project!

Posted by: rachel on 05/26/05 at 04:56 PM

Hey Chris ;-)
I was just wondering do you know release dates for other countries??. I'm from Australia and I'm dying to see this movie along with about 50 of my friends!! ;-D If you could post that would be briliant. PS THANKYOU SO MUCH for bringing this beautiful story to the big screen, those of us who love RENT(and by the looks of these posts there a quite a few) are truly indebted to you for taking this chance!!! Natalia

Posted by: Natalia Porter on 05/27/05 at 08:33 AM

Dear Mr. Columbus,
I can't tell you how excited I was when I heard you were going to direct the "Rent" film. I've loved all of your movies that I've seen, ever since I watched "Adventures in Babysitting" over and over as a little girl. When I first heard about a movie version of Rent, I was very nervous- especially with all the Justin Timberlake talk going around. I just wanted to thank you for taking on this project and for casting most of the OBC. I know that having the OBC in this film was something that many Rentheads (myself included) only dreamed about and never thought it could possibly be a reality. The more I read about the filming, the more excited I become for November. I can tell that you have great respect for Rent and I think that is going to come through when we get to see the final product. Best of luck to you!

~~~Amy~~~

Posted by: Amy A. on 05/27/05 at 11:38 AM

Dear Mr. Columbus,
I want to start of by thanking you for taking on this project. I have seen RENT 15 times on Broadway and I am so excited that the maessage Jonathan Larson wrote will now reach the masses. No cast has ever been as great as the OBC, and to see them almost all together again is going to be amazing. Good luck with the rest of the shoot and post-production. I am counting down the days just as so many others are until November 11th, 2005.RENT is going to be amazing!! Thank you so much!!!
-Amy-

Posted by: Amy on 05/30/05 at 11:24 AM

Dear Mr. Columbus,

I can't tell you how excited I am for RENT to be in theaters soon. I fell in love the musical when I was 11 and have been listening to the music since. My birthday is the day after the movie's release and I can think of no better way to celebrate my 16th birthday than watching the movie of my favorite musical. Thank you for doing this, and thanks for all your hard work. So many people appreciate it!!!

Posted by: Emily M. on 05/30/05 at 04:12 PM

Chris,

I saw the trailer and I just have no words. I cried, I smiled, and I just sat there in a surreal wonder. I couldn't believe this was happening and that I was actually watching it!

Personally, I just wanted to apologize profusely for ever having doubted you for a second. RENT is something many of us hardcore fans hold near and dear to our hearts, and we were very wary - some still are. But after seeing this trailer, every single one of my doubts has fled and I don't think I can thank you enough for stepping forward and taking on this project. You are amazing and the cast and crew are absolutely wonderful. This film will be stunning and perfect. November cannot come soon enough.

Again, THANK YOU so very, very much. I don't think it can be said enough.

Posted by: Caitlin on 05/30/05 at 10:26 PM

It would be great if Daphne Rubin-Vega were able to do a cameo in the film. It won't be the same without her although I'm sure Rosario will do a fine job. It's unfortunate the character couldn't have been slightly aged to accomodate Daphne since most of the original Broadway cast is reuniting for the film. Ageism in Hollywood abounds.

Posted by: Cameo on 05/31/05 at 08:45 AM

When I heard RENT was being transcribed into a movie, I was extremely skeptical. But reading your blogs, as well as the rest of the cast's, it makes me feel a lot better. I found RENT during a hard time in my life, and when I listen to it, it really helps me find another place to drift off to and feel a little better when it's over. I cry every time, and I never cease to laugh outloud. I just ask of you this, keep that in the movie. I challenge you to make me laugh, make me cry, make it the best movie you have ever created because there are a lot of people, inlcuding the Larsons who are looking to you for this. Good luck.

Posted by: Amanda on 06/01/05 at 12:36 PM

I'm glad you're directing this movie, Chris. You'll do the musical justice, I know, buuuut, I will admit, I did have some problems accepting it at first. Just seemed weird, going from Harry Potter to Rent. I've got faith in you, Chris! Don't let us down! =P

*hugs*
~Lausy~

Posted by: Lausanne M. on 06/02/05 at 10:23 AM

Dear Mr. Columbus,
I have been a RENThead for basically all my life. I would just like to thank you for making this into a movie and allowing me and all of my friends to have a reason to go to the movie theatre on November 11 at 12 in the morning. You are the best, really!
much love,
-Katie

Posted by: Katie on 06/04/05 at 07:05 PM

I'm a huge fan of the stage production and, living in NY, have been fortunate to see it many many times with a number of different actors. It is, literally, the only Broadway production that I have ever truly enjoyed and loved. Each time, I feel a powerful emotional reaction to the music and the story. I'm thrilled that you are bringing the story to film, and hope you will be able to move me the same way the stage production does each time.

Posted by: Ed on 06/04/05 at 10:59 PM

A SPECIAL REQUEST!!

Hi Mr. Columbus! Having seen the Original Broadway Cast more times than I can count, I can now sleep at night knowing the film version of "RENT" is in good hands!! Thank you for creating what I am confident will be a milestone achievement in musical cinema! The "Seasons of Love" trailer perfectly captures the core message of Rent. Beautifully shot scenes "choregraphed" to the lyrical content of the song. A work of art unto itself. Brilliant!! I can't wait to see your upcoming trailers (and the movie of course)! I hope you include all the different "RENT" trailers on the DVD....which brings me to a very special request....

please, please Mr. Columbus when you release the DVD of "RENT" give us the Ultimate (Renthead) Edition! Such as behind the scenes features, a stage to screen documentary, a tribute to Jonathan Larson, Anthony's (Mark's) video diary of the production, etc, etc. Releasing a 1 disc version then releasing another expanded "special edition" (2-3 discs) months/year after the initial DVD release is unfair to fans and consumers (exp "Chicago"). Give us all you got upfront!! We've waited 9 years for this movie, please, please don't make us wait any longer than neccessary for the Ultimate DVD Rent Experience. November 11 can't come fast enough! Saving up to see it once a week:)

Bless you, the cast, crew and Larson family for bringing Jonathan's musical vision to life in a truely spectacular fashion! Keep us informed. Thank you so much, Michael

Posted by: Michael on 06/07/05 at 04:25 PM

I just saw the trailer on Access Hollywood. That same heart stirring emotion which came over me from the 3rd row at the Nederlander Theater swept me from the TV to this website to say thank you. I can't think of a greater gift than to have the original cast bring this story to life on the big screen. I'll be counting down the minutes until I can dance with Angel and the cast this November. La Vie Boheme!

Posted by: Sharon P on 06/07/05 at 04:42 PM

Thank You for making the RENT dream a reality for many.. I've waited 8 years for this! God Bless, and we're all looking forward to seeing Rent in November!

Posted by: Danielle on 06/08/05 at 07:29 PM

Thank you, thank you thank you! November 11th can't come fast enough for me. I will try to pace myself for that weekend. Maybe just a couple of shows per day during that weekend. Until then, I can comfort myself with the Broadway soundtrack.

Posted by: nickiw on 06/08/05 at 09:40 PM

THANK YOU FOR THIS SITE! I'M HOOKED!

I am putting my total faith in you for this film. I know it will be WONDERFUL.

You are SO LUCKY to be a part of the wonderful experience that is Rent.

Make the movie come out sooner! I'm dying over here!

Thank you, Good Luck, Keep it up, All of that

Love Always and Forever,
~Serena~

Posted by: Serena on 06/09/05 at 02:35 PM

I am so thrilled that there is finally going to be a movie version of Rent after years of rumours and speculation. I live in London England and i have seent the show several times, including having slept overnight outside the theatre to purchase tickets for the final performance of the original run of Rent on the west end stage. IT WAS WELL WORTH IT, the cast bought us food and drinks to keep us warm it was so sweet. So now finally to see a movie version is fantastic especially as the show is no longer on in the west end, I hope that this movie will have a huge premier in London at which I will be present to hopefully have the cast sign my Rent bible (as I call it) whaich has the signitures of all the various casts i have seen in the shows.
After watching the trailer and seeing how it was going to work I can honestly say that it looks beautiful and Wilson... that dance routine phew... You Kick Ass!!!

Keep spreading the love....

Thankyou and best of luck with the movie.

With love,

Jon

Posted by: Jon on 06/10/05 at 03:37 AM

Hey I just wanted to thank you for finally putting Rent on screen. Where I'm from it takes a long ways to get to the theater. Not all my friends understand why I love this musical so much and wouldn't dare to shell out a few bucks to see it. Now you have brought Rent a little closer! They will actually find out why I'm such a Rent Head. I'm siked!! I will definately be there opening night with all my friends. Thankz a ton! Much love CC!
~sami

Posted by: Sami Kaiser on 06/10/05 at 08:26 PM

Just can't wait. What I love about Rent, (among many things), is that it emphasizes true family values, of caring and loving someone no matter their circumstances. It is just the most humane musical I have ever seen. I also loved the Harry Potter movies, so I'm totally elated that Chris Columbus is taking this on. And I agree with the poster who wanted a "Renthead" dvd with all the extras. I can hardly wait, and am sure it will be a sucess.

Posted by: Sascha on 06/10/05 at 10:11 PM

Hey Chris,
Wow, what can I say, I am a HUGE fan of yours. I looove the Harry Potter movies, and I think you are an incredible director. Keep it up! Can't wait until RENT comes out!
~Randi

Posted by: Randi on 06/11/05 at 10:21 AM


Chris,

I've got to say that when I heard that you were directing the movie, RENT...I was skeptical. Don't get me wrong, "Mrs. Doubtfire" was a great movie, it's just a very, different genre. As a RENThead, who used to live on the corner of 3rd Street and Ave. A, I was blown away as I watched the trailer. The film seems to have kept the integrity of the show. The images also capture those raw and edgy elements, that exist in that world.

I just wanted to say, thank you. The film looks awesome!

Posted by: Abbie de Vera-Jackson on 06/11/05 at 11:41 PM

Dear Mr. Columbus,

I'm wondering if there will be any benefit or special screenings of RENT (or HARRY POTTER, for that matter) come November in San Francisco? Since a large portion of it was filmed here (and you also live here), I was just wanting to know if there were any special events planned that the locals might be able to attend.

The wonderful people behind STAR WARS: EPISODE III gave us 5 months advance notice for their benefit premiere. That's about where we are now and I haven't seen anything for RENT or HARRY so far.

Will there be a Director's commentary on the RENT DVD? I loved the one you did for MRS. DOUBTFIRE. There have been none, as yet, for the HARRY POTTER films which has been a MAJOR disappointment.

Yours very truly,
Sandy

Posted by: Sandy on 06/12/05 at 07:57 PM

Hey Chris. This movie is such an amazing thing to follow in the footsteps of the show. For someone like me who has never gotten to see it (and has had to resort to replaying the soundtrack countless times, daily), I'm excited beyond words to finally be able to view the show who's music alone has already changed my life. I sincerely commend you on this undertaking and I know you will do an excellent job staying true to the story and its eternal message. Make sure you give us fans plenty of bloopers and behind the scenes footage- we love that stuff. Why is November 11th so far away?? Rock on. Stay true.

P.S. Harry Potter rocked too!!

Posted by: Diana on 06/13/05 at 11:55 AM

I was lucky enough both to watch Anthony and Chris work together during the shooting of Adventures in Babysitting and I know that this is a magic combination. I can't wait to see the film!

Posted by: Melanie McBride on 06/13/05 at 07:12 PM

Mr. Columbus,

I have seen RENT three timnes since it's existance. Once on Broadway with the original cast, and a second and thrid time at the Fox theater in Atlanta. I'm a RENThead through and through. from the first time seeing the show i fell in love with Johnathan's writting and passion. I believe that you are staying true to his vision by using members of the O.B.C so thank you. counting the days, and to Anthony Rapp- best character roll as Mark ever!(my personal favorit), Adam Pascale- you made Roger memoriable, and Taye Biggs- you would do Benni proud.
Viva La Vie Boheme,
Seth.

Posted by: Seth on 06/14/05 at 07:52 PM

Mr. Columbus-
I am so excited that you decided to make this movie. i saw the broadway show and it changed my life. like it really did, im not just saying it because i think its what you want to hear, but it is really true. i walked out of the theater and wanted nothing more then to go back in and see it again...i think kids have high expectations for this movie and i hope that this movie wont let us down...from the trailer, i can tell it wont. thank you again for making RENT your own. "no day but today"
tons of love
lindsey*

Posted by: Lindsey on 06/15/05 at 02:32 PM

I want to thank you guys so much for making Rent into a movie. I finally got to go see the production on Stage here in San Diego, and by the end of the show I was in tears.. both happy and sad. I hope with everything that I am that the movie is the same. Thank you all,

Christopher

Posted by: Christopher on 06/15/05 at 05:46 PM

I saw this in Toronto (and loved it) years ago and was never able to get to see it again. With this show I learned that one CAN like musicals even if one doesn't care for snorefests like Les Mis. I was always sure that when RENT would be made into a movie, it'd be hugely disappointing. After seeing the trailer though, you have me VERY excited- EVEN MORE excited after learning most of the cast were originals (the same voices from the sound track I listene to so many times!) Anyway, I am truly ecstatic to see this movie put into obviously capable hands. Many thanks!

Posted by: Ryan on 06/15/05 at 07:19 PM

Dear MR. Columbus
I want to first thank you for taking on this film. I had the chance to see rent in 2000 at the Nederlander in NYC, it struck a resonant tone in me. I have heard many die hard theater goers moan and groan over the recent flux of stage to film productions. But I personally think its a great thing it encourages more to see live theater, and gives those who cant afford to go, A chance to see a great piece of work. Thank you again
A loving RENT fan
Timothy Kizuka

p.s. Thank you Idina Menzel
for helping some of us believe we can "Defy Gravity"

Posted by: TJ Kizuka on 06/17/05 at 01:22 AM

THE ULTIMATE "RENT" DVD!

Hi Chris, I know you're busy with the last days of filming and beginning post-production work on the movie, but if you have a free moment head over to the the "Rent Movie" message board at compulsivebowlers.org and check out the fan wish list for - The Ultimate "Rent" DVD Edition! It was fun putting it together:)

Posted by: Michael on 06/17/05 at 05:22 AM

Hi Chris! I would just like to tell you that I saw the play 3 times and loved it so I hope that this movie is better.I am only 11 years-old too! I am a huge fan of Idina Menzel and Taye Diggs. I am a huge Broadway fan, and the first day Rent comes out I will leave school early just to go and see it. I will go and see it everyday!Thanks for making the movie! BYe!

Posted by: Sarah on 06/18/05 at 10:18 AM

Hello---i didn't know who to blog to (so many choices)---so i figured since you are the director you would be perfect---i've seen rent 5 times in the theater, i've been listening to the cd for 9 years (and i am still not bored), and one of my biggest dreams is to be in the touring cast of rent (i'd love to be maureen---but any part would suffice)--when i first heard that rent was turning into a movie i'll tell yah i had my reservations--i got this weird feeling in the pit of my stomach like a frightened feeling that this revolution of a musical would be horribly commercialized, thus, the true meaning of RENT would be lost----but i watched the trailer and i nearly cried (you did a beautiful job and i am so glad to see the return of the original broadway cast)---i am so thankful that the true essence of RENT will shine through on screen---lovely and amazing---thank you!!!!

Posted by: Gail on 06/19/05 at 11:34 AM

Dear Mr. Columbus:

I am a member of www.compulsivebowlers.org, a message board created, maintained, and kept alive by die-hard RENT fans. With the RENT movie coming out soon, much of our discussion has turned to what we hope to see on film, what America's reaction to it will be, and how we best think that the musical can be honored in a motion picture. In discussing the closing credits, I proposed the following idea and a number of members encouraged me to pass it on to you. If you do see these posts, please consider it as a possible ending to RENT. First, we have been hoping that an original song could be added to the ending credits of the movie - a song that could later, hopefully, be considered for an Oscar for Best Song. When thinking about what that song should most reflect, it occurred to me that a song about the bonds that tie people together throughout life, and how those bonds are what bring us and keep us alive would be most fitting. One of the prime examples of these deep relationships, I feel, can be found in the tight knit family that has been created with each cast of RENT. Therefore, it would be my hope to see an original song composed and performed by an ensemble made up of as many past RENT cast members as possible. The tradition of the Broadway musical would be kept alive and the spirit of the RENT family would be on full display. Please consider this as a proper ending for the credits of RENT. Thank you for your time, and thank you once again for bringing RENT to the screen.

Sincerely,
Christopher Young

Posted by: Christopher Young on 06/23/05 at 09:38 AM

Hey Chris!
I have been a 'RENT' fan for a while, and I just want to thank you for giving us the opportunity to see some of the original cast in action, and for bringing Jonathan's vision from the stage to the screen. Good luck with everything!

~*Jenn*~

Posted by: Jenn on 06/23/05 at 03:45 PM

Who made the decision to change the opening date of the movie? I purchase a plane ticket to Seattle to see the movie with friends on Saturday (7-30) and now today 8-2 I find out its a limited release on 11-11 and general release 11-23. Not a happy camper.

Posted by: Pete on 08/02/05 at 10:01 PM

Well... Well... Well.......... I believe the RENT is theFIRST & theBEST. So, may i ask do it a RENT VCD player, please..... ? hohoho...... as gift for Jerry......?

regards

JERRY YYERMN - BATAM ISLAND.

Posted by: JERRY(YYERMN) on 08/07/05 at 12:17 AM

Dear Mr. Columbus,
I tried searching the site and the blog to find a sort of "Contact Us" link, but I guess there isn't one.
I'm speaking for several RENT fans living in Israel who are quite concerned. We originally were told that RENT was to be in theaters here on December 1st. We were a bit upset at the delay but were delighted none the less. Now I have checked the "Worldwide Release Dates" and our country doesn't appear there. Moreover, there's been a rumor floating around saying we won't see the movie 'till January.
Could you try and clear this up for us?

- Avital, and the Concerned Israeli RENT fans

Posted by: Avital on 11/12/05 at 01:07 PM

Dear Mr. Columbus,
I saw RENT this past week with my girlfriend, and I loved it. All the actors and actresses were so talented. I loved every song they sang. The movie is one of my favorite movies I have seen. I just wanted to tell you, you made a classic. The cast had such a strong connection in the movie. It was awesome. I cant even put it into words about how amazing your movie was. I want to be a comedian when I am older, I have been in theatre all through high school and now starting in college. RENT made me want to sing and audition for musicals. I loved it.
Sincerrely
Ralph Hutchens

Posted by: Ralph Hutchens on 11/27/05 at 10:46 PM

Thank you so much for having the guts to make this film. It has changed my life. By the end of watching the film, I knew that theater was what I would do when I am old enough to get out of the house. I couldn't agree with you more that this this story has an amazing story and amazing songs. Please let everyone who you have worked with on this movie that it is inspiring and truely has an amazing message. Thanks for staying true to the play...and although I have never seen the play, I know this is true because there aren't any films with such GREAT writing and so Thank you!

~Katie Young (14)

P.S. When I get out of school, ya wanna hook me up with a job since your film made me want to work in the business?!

Posted by: Katie Young on 12/03/05 at 06:21 PM


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