Kristen Bell by Jamie McCarthy/ WireImage.com
To cancer or not to cancer? That's the question that has prompted the Weinstein Co. to release two versions of Fanboys on DVD, and to explore the option of a theatrical release for the much-delayed film. A vocal bunch of Star Wars fan supporters, however, are threatening to boycott the studio if Fanboys isn't released to theaters exactly (and only) the way the filmmakers intended.
Fanboys was conceived as a road-trip dramedy about four friends — including one who has cancer — who break into George Lucas' Skywalker Ranch on the eve of the release of Star Wars: Episode I — The Phantom Menace. (Think Stand by Me, but with Wookiees and light-sabers.)
Weinstein spokespeople have claimed that the cancer storyline confused the tone of the movie, which it envisioned as more of a straight comedy — in particular because of the recent successes of the film's then-lesser-known cast members Kristen Bell, Seth Rogen and Jay Baruchel. So they ordered reshoots that excised the cancer story entirely, and then tested both versions.
The cancer-free cut won by a slim margin, leading Weinstein to consider the dual-version release plan. Mark down another victory for freedom of expression — oh, and capitalism.
I have to admit, when I heard the pitch for this film, I thought, "Excellent." But interestingly, I didn't know about the cancer subplot. What do you think? Is it better to go for the straight funny, or is laughter through tears your favorite emotion, too? — Mickey O'Connor
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Was the test audience a random sample of the general public or the target audience???????