This came in a few weeks ago from Johnny Depp. I made reference to it in a comment buried deep in the last post. It struck me recently that it deserved its own page. These are Johnny’s words, written in response to a request from the producers to comment about his participation in the film.

“DiCillo’s When You’re Strange is a meticulously crafted, exhilarating ode to one of music’s greatest, most exciting ensembles; The Doors.  Watching the hypnotic, hitherto, unreleased footage of Jim, John, Ray and Robby, both on and off the stage, I felt like I was there, with them, living and experiencing what they were experiencing, seeing it all through their eyes. Ultimately, Jim has been resurrected here to remind us that he is to this very day, one of the most significant frontmen/poets/shaman to ever grace a stage and that the band behind him, kept the music alive every step of the way, adding fuel to an already raging fire, all along their wild and electrifying ride into history.  The raw material entrances throughout.  In terms of a rock n’ roll documentary, or any kind of documentary for that matter, it simply doesn’t get any better than this.  What an honor to have been involved.  I am as proud of this as anything I have ever done.”

I, too am immensely proud of the film, and everyone who worked on it–including Johnny. His narration adds an eloquence and intimacy that lift the film into an entirely different dimension. His words above are extremely meaningful.

For everyone who has been asking about the US theatrical release I have been assured by the film’s producers that, “A theatrical release WILL happen.” It may not be a massive commercial release but I know a theatrical release is important to the producers and they are making every effort to ignite one. When it happens it will be within the next few months.

A definite fact is the film will air on TV in May on PBS. The goal would be to have the theatrical release just before then. There will of course be a huge DVD release soon afterwards. A soundtrack album is also happening. I’ve seen the artwork for it. Both it and the list of included Door’s songs are very impressive.

Sales continue strong in Europe. Most of the countries who have bought the film are working on setting up major theatrical releases. Several of the larger territories like France, Germany and Britain are planning theatrical premieres in late Spring of 2010.

So, that’s it. That’s what I know. When it comes time for the US theatrical release I will be asking all of you Doors fans out there to help us; spread the word, tell everyone you know. We’re going to need your help. All of you. Get ready.