Chasing Chasing Amy: A Love Letter to the Power of Film and Self-Discovery

Sav Rodgers and Kevin Smith in "Chasing Chasing Amy." Photo credit: Bill Winters

Kevin Smith's work finds a way to resonate deeply with his fans, but none more so than Chasing Amy, a film that has sparked joy, controversy, and introspection since its release. For me, the magic of Kevin Smith began with Clerks, but Chasing Amy truly captured my heart. The brilliant writing, relatable yet complex characters, and unconventional premise stood out in the '90s indie film scene. It wasn't just a romantic comedy. It's a raw, messy exploration of love, identity, and self-acceptance that stayed with me long after the credits rolled.

However, like many works of art, Chasing Amy is complicated. While it offered fresh perspectives during its time, it also drew criticism for its depiction of queer relationships through the lens of a straight filmmaker. Yet, for filmmaker Sav Rodgers, this divisiveness didn't detract from the life-changing impact it had on him as a young queer kid discovering who he was and encouraging his future in filmmaking.

Rodgers' documentary, Chasing Chasing Amy, takes us on a heartfelt journey of self-discovery. It's not just a retrospective on the cult classic's polarizing place in LGBTQ+ cinema but also a personal look into Rodgers' evolution - as an artist, a transgender man, and a human being.

Joey Lauren Adams, Sav Rodgers, and Kevin Smith of "Chasing Chasing Amy."

Chasing Amy tells the story of two New Jersey comic book artists whose lives are upended when a third artist, a lesbian named Alyssa Jones, enters their circle. The film's raw portrayal of heartbreak, jealousy, and flawed human relationships earned it acclaim and criticism. It also left an indelible mark on Rodgers, who saw in it a mirror for his struggles and aspirations.
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Through Chasing Chasing Amy, Rodgers examines the duality of the film's legacy. On one hand, it was a lifeline for him. A piece of art that validated his existence when he needed it most. On the other, it's a film that many in the queer community view with skepticism for its framing of LGBTQ+ characters and themes. Rather than shying away from this tension, Rodgers leans into it, creating a dialogue that is as much about understanding differing perspectives as it is about celebrating the transformative power of storytelling.

Premiering at the 2023 Tribeca Festival and earning accolades from festivals around the globe, Chasing Chasing Amy features heartfelt and intelligent interviews with an impressive array of voices, including Kevin Smith, Joey Lauren Adams, Jason Lee, and Guinevere Turner. These conversations are interwoven with Rodgers' narrative, offering a multi-faceted look at a film that shaped and continues to challenge generations of viewers.

The film's production is a testament to the collaborative spirit of indie cinema. With cinematography by Bill Winters and Bradley Garrison, editing by Sharika Ajaikumar, and an original score by Jordi Nus, every frame is imbued with the care and passion that only comes from a labor of love. Producers Alex Schmider, Carrie Radigan, Lela Meadow-Conner, and Matthew C. Mills joined Rodgers in bringing this deeply personal story to life.

Sav Rodgers explores the record store from "Chasing Amy."

At its core, Chasing Chasing Amy isn't about settling debates or rewriting history. As Rodgers eloquently states, "What I'm ultimately chasing with this documentary is the reality that humanity lives in all of us." His journey from a queer kid in Kansas to an adult reconciling his love for a flawed film is a reminder that art doesn't have to be perfect to matter. It's the impact it leaves on our lives that counts.

Rodgers shows his vulnerability in sharing his story. From grappling with his identity to navigating the emotional baggage of his relationship with Chasing Amy, this documentary profoundly moving. By including his transformation, he offers hope to anyone facing struggles that feel like more than they can handle. His message is clear: life, like art, is messy, but within that mess lies the potential for connection, growth, and healing.

In a world where representation in media continues to evolve, Chasing Chasing Amy serves as both a love letter and a critique of its namesake. It invites you to revisit the past with fresh eyes and an open heart, reminding us that stories, even imperfect ones, can save lives. Rodgers' documentary isn't just about a movie. It's about the enduring power of art to shape who we are and who we aspire to be.

Whether you've loved, loathed, or never seen Chasing Amy, this documentary is a must-watch. It's a poignant, thought-provoking exploration of how we reconcile our past with our present and how the films we cherish can challenge and uplift us. Sav Rodgers' journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the magic of cinema. A magic that, flaws and all, has the power to change lives.

Chasing Chasing Amy is available on VOD platforms on December 17th, 2024.

- Teresa Robinson with PRIDE & Equality Magazine and New Mexico Entertainment Magazine