Pondering the Pursuit of Phantom Passion

[Susan~Sporran]

DISCLAIMER - These are just my personal thoughts and musings based on observations, they are not judgments. I hope that it might inspire some inspired discussion. For clarification in the title of this thread I mean for the word "Phantom" to be used with both a upper case and lower case "p"

I've been pondering this subject for awhile now, and this morning felt it was time to put my thoughts out there. I do not now or ever presume to tell Gerry what he should do with his career. I'm still a fan, I am still all about supporting his career and his decisions. I am just voicing some observations and my interpretation of them. Obviously interpretations are subjective, therefore just from my own perspective.

I became a fan of Gerry on December 31, 2004 when I first saw him as Phantom. In the months that followed the passion I observed in other fans (most of whom had also come into the fold of fandom with Phantom) was quite a phenomenon. For Gerry's first appearance on Craig Ferguson our numbers scared the bejeebees out of the audience people so that they allowed only 15 fans into the taping, creating a huge PR mess. A few weeks later when he appeared on Jay Leno we were camped out at the studio beginning as early a 9pm the night before. Fans flew all over the world for film openings, film festivals, the very first convention in Glasgow. Our passion for anything to do with Gerry could not be contained. Sometimes it overflowed and we were seen as a little too fanatic, but it was merely our passion for supporting Gerry that fueled that enthusiasm. We put our passion into support campaigns for Dear Frankie, Game of Their Lives and Beowulf & Grendl but our impact never really showed in the box office, though I am sure each of those got most of their ticket sales (and DVD sales) from Gerry fans. I saw this continuing to a pretty big degree through the juggernaut that was "300". Many new fansites (including this one) were formed in the years of 2005 and 2006.

Fast forward to 2008 and 2009. Since "300" Gerry has been very busy. He has made many movies in just about as many genres. Some were moderately successful (PSILY, Nim's Island, TUT, LAC) while others were hugely disappointing (BOAW, RNR, Gamer). At the same time I found myself wondering "where is the passion" that we fans had back in 2005? Gerry's talk show appearances no longer bring out a hundred fans. The last two I was able to attend probably didn't have more than a dozen of us there. We thought we were a force to be reckoned with, yet at the box office we've proven we are not. If we were there would have been big numbers for all of his movies, but the only huge success was "300" and that WASN'T from our ticket sales (though I did see it 18 times).

For all Gerry's movie openings up through "300" we would have big fan get togethers to be there in force on opening night. I was also able to see Nim's Island opening day with a large group because it occurred during the DC Fan Convention last year. But other than that I've found it difficult to pull together even a small group to see any of the recent releases together. I saw TUT and LAC on their opening weekend with only my husband. I saw Gamer with a small group of local fans. I saw TUT a total of 6 times, Gamer 2, LAC 3 so far. Some of my friends and fellow fans still haven't seen LAC, or just saw it very recently. These same fans probably saw "300" at least 3 or 4 times by the end of opening weekend and can't even count how many times they saw Phantom!

In addition to that, several of the fansites have closed their doors. GALS is thankfully still active (perhaps the most active forum for Gerry), but possibly moreso for the relationships we've been able to develop with one another, and the fact that we do have new fans coming in who are just experiencing the Gerry Juice for the first time. I have not seen a wave of new fans coming in like we saw with Phantom. Each new film does bring in some newbies, and that's what we hope for and welcome, but not like when the new membership numbers jumped by thousands after Phantom. I believe Gerry as a person and an actor still has what it takes to inspire that level of passion that he did back in 2005, but I'm wondering what kind of role will bring a new wave of it, to re-ignite the passion in some of those who fell away from fandom, and to ignite it in a whole new batch of fans the way Phantom did.

My personal opinion (and it's simply that) is that Gerry at some time in the near future needs to find a vehicle that inspires that level of passion IN HIMSELF that Phantom did, a character that gets inside his soul. I know he has enjoyed doing all these different roles in different genres and it gets him seen by many new audiences which opens more opportunities for him in the future. But he hasn't had that overpoweringly passionate romantic lead (preferably one with a tortured soul) like he had in Phantom since then. I really hope another role like that is ahead for him, I would love to see that phantom Phantom passion plundering its way through fandom again.

[AbandonThought]

Interesting read, Susan. Thanks for your thoughts.

I can only take you at your word for the reaction to Phantom, as I'm a relative Gerry newbie. However, it doesn't surprise me that so many had such a strong reaction. I did, myself. Phantom really moved me. I don't know if it's fair to compare the fan reaction after Phantom to that after any of Gerry's other films though, because although Gerry was a huge part of the beauty of the movie, I think it was the indescribable beauty of Andrew Lloyd Webber's music and lyrics that really pushes it over the top.

I think Gerry has put out equally moving performances in subsequent films, but it's really hard for any film in its entirety to reach the level and cause the reaction of Phantom.

And while I can't speak for any other fans who maybe aren't supporting Gerry as vehemently at the box office as they once were, I can posit a hypothesis that it has nothing to do with Gerry, his performances, or the movies he chooses to do... simply that the novelty has worn off. (Allow me to analogize to a relationship: It's like how in the first few months when everything is exciting and new and you can't keep your hands off each other or go 5 minutes without thinking about them. That inevitably fades, but you still carry forward all the love and devotion that you ever had.)

I have gone to see each of Gerry's new films this year a handful of times at the theatres, despite the fact that I live off student loans. I would love to be able to travel all over the world for his premieres and appearances, but I simply can't in my circumstances. Sometimes life gets in the way, and I'm sure that is the case for many fans who still support him just as strongly as when they fell in love with him in POTO (especially in the current economy).

I love your critical and measured analysis of what seems to you to be a downward trend in fandom or fanaticism, and I am always open for Gerry to play another deep, romantic, tortured soul. However, I certainly don't think that his star is falling, and I believe he continues to put forth performances equally as impressive as his portrayal of the Phantom.

Steph

[Susan~Sporran]

Steph, thanks for the response. As for Phantom, I have to disagree that it is the music that inspired the passion as much as the performance or Gerry himself. Here's my reasoning for that. 1) a great many of the biggest fans of the musical itself detest Gerry's performance as Phantom. 2) as someone who herself has been a fan of POTO since the late 80's and saw it many times on stage (including with the original Phantom, Michael Crawford) I have always loved the music, but never loved the Phantom as a character or the actor portraying him, until I saw Gerry in the role. Never before his Phantom did any actor reach into my chest and grab hold of my heart like he did, and that particular experience has not been equalled since. Now he actually has done other roles that move me as much, including his earlier work as Johnnie Donne in The Jury, but it was Phantom that ignited the flame for me and the vast majority of others at that time. I still eagerly await our Phantom Redux every year here in L.A. (which is coming up next weekend) because seeing the film and Gerry up there on the big screen as it was meant to be seen is an unparallelled delight!

I do agree with your analogy to a relationship, I understand how those who were most passionate back then may still love Gerry and support him, as I do, but not feel the same level of initial "can't get enough". But that's why I am hoping for another role that has that kind of impact - to bring in NEW fans who feel that because their enthusiasm can help reignite the old passion in those who have been around for awhile.

I look forward to the insight of others as well.

[AbandonThought]

I s'pose I was just speaking from my own experience regarding the music of Phantom being what caused the deep reaction. I loved Gerry, but I think Phantom still would have moved me in this way in any incarnation that I first experienced it, because the music and the story really touched me. Then again, I'll never know for sure, since Gerry's Phantom WAS my first experience. You may be right, Susan.

Steph

[IslandGirl]

I thought his star was rising even higher this past year. At least that is what it seems with all the media taking such interest in him since 300.. I hear what you're saying Susan regarding the Phantom role, and the passion Gerry had while protraying that character but I do think he has portrayed similiar if not equally as good. Dear Frankie to me was a wonderfully simple movie but Gerry made it more than that. His role in that movie brought forth many emotions and considering he didn't even have a lot of dialogue, I found that impressive. Also the Jury was incredible. 300 was a great performance even if it was in a different genre. He is so versatile that he can bring emotions to the screen effortlessly.

I too would love to see Gerry in another heart-wrenching role. He can do it and should do it again as it is long overdue. He's done the rom-coms, the epic sagas and it's time for another brilliant dramatic role. Hope it's something he's considering for the near future.

I see every movie he's in on opening night. And sometimes several times, but like Steph mentioned sometimes life, money, work, family come before my devotion as a fan. I love Gerry and will always be a loyal fan who sees his films, buys his movies, and supports him however I can.

He, to me, is the only actor I respect enough or care about enough to actually remain interested in because he really does deserve it.

Charlotte

[Susan~Sporran]

Charlotte - I can't deny Gerry any and all success he has experienced in the last couple of years. He is much more in the media, he has had many more roles in a short span of time, worked with amazing costars, and shown his range in many different genres. But what I'm speaking of is a different level of experience. It may not even equate to professional success, it is just that emotional response that is so overwhelming that it creates a torrent of new fans. That's what we have not seen since Phantom, not even with the huge box office success of "300". Maybe it is there and it just doesn't manifest the way it used to, maybe the whole idea of "fandom" has acquired a reputation that keeps some from proclaiming publicly how they feel.

Personally of all Gerry's films my favorite is Dear Frankie, for many reasons, his ability to act with his eyes was on full display in that gem of a film, but had I not seen him in Phantom I'm not sure I would ever have experienced DF, or for that matter most any of his other work. It was that desire to immerse myself in all things Gerry when I first became a fan that I hope to see among a huge wave of new fans at sometime in the future.

[Knight Phantom]

First off; Welcome Home Susan! I hope you had a great trip.

Now, to the matter at hand.

I too came to the fandom in the wake of Phantom of the Opera, only I was not fortunate enough to see it in the theatre until July 2008 (My eternal thanks to GALS for that!). I was guilted into watching the DVD to appease my then 8 year old daughter. My passion for this multifaceted, multitalented man has not diminished one bit since that first viewing. In fact, if anything it has grown deeper.

I am more active in my fandom now, than in 2005. I make sure to have my arse in the seat at least twice during the first week of every new movie. I'd go more but I have very limited resources. I drag as many family and/or friends as I can. Sally and I drove to LA for Opening Day for Gamer for Sherrell's b-day. I have Butlerized my mom, Attila was with her at Hospice; two of my closest friends. I have talked up Gerry to strangers in stores when they notice him on my keys.

I agree with many of the points you made Susan. Sally and I usually go to movie openings here in Phoenix either alone or with her kids. No get togethers with fans, no parties, nothing. This is why we come to where you are so often.

I try to get to every premiere and talkshow I can. Not to get time with Gerry, but to support him, whether he knows I'm there or not.

I particulary agree with "I believe Gerry as a person and an actor still has what it takes to inspire that level of passion that he did back in 2005," and "Gerry at some time in the near future needs to find a vehicle that inspires that level of passion IN HIMSELF that Phantom did, a character that gets inside his soul." Maybe the long awaited "Burns" will do it.

I can't explain the ebb of some people's fandom, I just know that after nearly five years, mine grows stronger.

Thanks Susan for starting this. I look forward to other thoughts as well.

[ladyfran]

In my case Susan....it's all about the finances! Believe me Sweetie if I lived in an area closer to other Gals and fans alike...I would be tagging along with you guys whatever the occasion! But since I'm kind of an oldie here I have seen the exact thing you are talking about...I know after each new movie we have a surge of newbies that join and maybe half of them stay.. and well I don't know what happens to the rest. Plus I also concur with you about how many of "the oldies" have drifted away but that could be for many reasons...I think RL has been the biggest factor from what I can see.... I do know that POTO is what made me find this site even though I was blown away by him in Attila! It's funny when I told my sister about him in Attila she just uttered something like "yeah he's alright" but when she saw POTO she was a goner! Finally I saw POTO and even though at the time it wasn't my kind of movie, I was hooked ...for good! I wish I had the money and the time to be able to attend a lot of his appearances but unfortunately it's not in the cards for me...But I will still support him in any other way that I can and I don't believe I'll be going anywhere anytime soon! My hope is that he does make another movie at the same caliber as The Phantom or actually even one that surpasses that and every other film he's done so far! But yes...I agree. An epic, passionate, romantic, gut wrenching film... *Sigh* Thanks for your thoughts Susan....funny thing is...I thought about this same issue myself in a way!

Frannie

Edited November 8, 2009 by ladyfran

[phoenixgirl]

I just lost my entire post!!! I'm going to try to re-state what I wrote, but of course it won't come out quote as eloquent.

I don't think Phantom can ever be re-created. Through Gerry we were able to see Erik's anguish, pain, rejection, hopelessness, love, passion and hurt, things we've all felt at one time or another in our lives. I think that's why anyone who sees it for the first time feels so strongly. I think Gerry personified Erik more beautifully than anyone in the play ever did, and I honestly believe that to try to re-create that would be foolish. IT'S MY OPINION that the sequel should not be done as a movie, and if it is certainly NOT with Gerry. I think when Hollywood tries to do that it only makes the sequel laughable and takes away from the original. I just needed to say that (I know that's not what you were saying, Susan).

While I think there are plenty of other roles to be done that can show the depth of Gerry's talent like POTO did, I don't think the phenomenon will happen again. I think, like Steph said, the newness has worn off. Gerry isn't going to have that again, and it's not because of him but because he's already known. I think those things happen with someone new. For example, I don't see someone like Pitt doing a role that will make his own fans feel the way they did at say Interview with a Vampire or Legends of the Fall. Those characters evoked strong feelings from the fans that catapulted Brad to where he is now. It's just not going to happen again.

The same for Gerry. Phantom brought so many of us to him, or maybe solidified the fandom after seeing him in something else first, that it can't happen again. Of course he can play a role that will evoke strong feelings and make the fans swoon and fall in love with him again, etc. But it's kind of been there done that - Gerry is already an established actor who really doesn't need to do that again.

Now, from a selfish fan POV only - I don't want to be just one of hundreds of women standing out there waiting for him. I also want new fans or people who have been around for a long time but just getting to a premiere or other PA to be able to have that moment with Gerry. If that happens, we'll lose the intimacy that we have been spoiled with. And, by the way, at the premieres there ARE hundreds there - look at the videos of Japan and the UK. It may not happen in LA as much but it sure does in other parts of the world where he's a bit more "new" than he is here.

Now, from a possible Gerry POV (in my mind) - do you really think he wants hundreds of women there at every appearance screaming at him? I would bet that he would rather those hundreds pay for their tickets and get their butts in the seats. I don't think he wants the rock star status. We know he loves us and he loves the greeting he gets when we shows up - hearing us cheer and yell and support him. But hundreds doing it all the time? I don't think he needs that. Again, my opinion.

I further think that Gerry's choice of roles is just fine. He's in a position to choose what he wants, and he's exploring all types of genres and characters. For example, my guess would be that he chose Gamer just to be a boy who got to blow s**t up. Fun! Did he have the expectation that it would make millions? Probably not, to be honest. Gerry's no dummy; he knows those types of movies don't bring in the bucks. He's seen the same patterns we have in the past, and knows that something like Titanic or some epic will bring in the millions of moviegoers. Gerry chooses the roles that HE wants to make to enjoy making movies. Would I like to see him do something like a Benjamin Buttons? Sure! I'd be stupid if I said no. I'd love to see Gerry be a commercial success. However, I also want him to do it if that's what he wants to do. I think Gerry became an actor because he loves the art of acting. The rest is icing on the cake.

I would hate to see Gerry make a movie that he didn't want to make just to make money or to please the fans. I want him around as long as possible and if that means I don't get to see him make a movie like Dear Frankie, etc. ever again, so be it. I'm happy supporting his career as he sees fit.

I paid to see LAC 5 times; Nim's 9; TUT 6; PSILY 6. I go whenever I can and have chosen to pay for a ticket over putting gas in my car, etc. And he's the only man I would do that for.

It seems that Gerry himself has settled into the comfortableness of his career, and I agree with Charlotte that his star IS on the rise, but the fervor has already been done. Now it's time to just support him and love him as best we can.

I'm done pontificating. This brought up a lot of thoughts, Susan. Great thoughts! Thanks for starting the thread. I'm sure someone more articulate than me will continue.

Edited November 8, 2009 by phoenixgirl

[LadyMacbeth75]

I think my passionate response to Gerry's Phantom won't ever be matched by any future role he plays, simply because the role and his performance pushed all the right emotional buttons in my heart. As the Phantom, he reached me with his beautiful, compelling singing voice and those eyes that really did seem to "threaten and adore". He was physically graceful even though he's a big man and he showed deep vulnerability and frustration underneath masculine power. A whole potent combination of factors made that performance amazing to me and I highly doubt he'll replicate it.

That said, it's mine forever to watch whenever I want. And yes, it must be magical on the big screen every year for those who can get there. How is the turn-out at the Phantom Redux? Are there still fans loyal to the film who will gather for the event? I can be tremendously loyal to one film and character throughout my life, so I imagine others can too, quite separate from my loyalty to Gerry as an actor.

As to that, I believe he would have disappeared into obscurity if he hadn't made the risky and unique choices he's made since "POTO". Even ten thousand or so passionate, mostly female fans cannot support an entire actor's career. He needed to reach a broad audience, which he has finally done.

Now that he's successful and well-known, perhaps he'll find a role intended to inspire passion from his female audience again. It won't be the same for me, I know, but I'll enjoy it nevertheless. And new fans just might get gobsmacked like a lot of us did after "POTO".

[AbandonThought]

Very well said, Lisa!

While I think there are plenty of other roles to be done that can show the depth of Gerry's talent like POTO did, I don't think the phenomenon will happen again. I think, like Steph said, the newness has worn off. Gerry isn't going to have that again, and it's not because of him but because he's already known. I think those things happen with someone new. For example, I don't see someone like Pitt doing a role that will make his own fans feel the way they did at say Interview with a Vampire or Legends of the Fall. Those characters evoked strong feelings from the fans that catapulted Brad to where he is now. It's just not going to happen again.

The same for Gerry. Phantom brought so many of us to him, or maybe solidified the fandom after seeing him in something else first, that it can't happen again. Of course he can play a role that will evoke strong feelings and make the fans swoon and fall in love with him again, etc. But it's kind of been there done that - Gerry is already an established actor who really doesn't need to do that again.

I agree... it's nothing to do with Gerry not being as exciting or amazing as he was in POTO... it's just that you can only have that moment of discovering him once. It's great that POTO caused such a fury of fans to come to find Gerry, and I think the reality that that hasn't been replicated is a testament to the fact that he's so thoroughly permeated the public consciousness.

Now, from a selfish fan POV only - I don't want to be just one of hundreds of women standing out there waiting for him. I also want new fans or people who have been around for a long time but just getting to a premiere or other PA to be able to have that moment with Gerry. If that happens, we'll lose the intimacy that we have been spoiled with.

I agree again! It may come across as sounding selfish, but yeah, I have to say, I like the idea that there aren't always throngs of insane fans at every public appearance. I haven't had the good fortune to go to one yet, but I like the thought that when I finally do, I may be in a crowd of a dozen or so when Gerry stops by for his fan time. I think he feels the same amount of love and appreciation whether there are 15 fans or 1500; I think he takes more note of the fans who ARE there and the love and admiration that they express for him, rather than thinking about how many are NOT there.

I further think that Gerry's choice of roles is just fine. He's in a position to choose what he wants, and he's exploring all types of genres and characters. For example, my guess would be that he chose Gamer just to be a boy who got to blow s**t up. Fun! Did he have the expectation that it would make millions? Probably not, to be honest. Gerry's no dummy; he knows those types of movies don't bring in the bucks. He's seen the same patterns we have in the past, and knows that something like Titanic or some epic will bring in the millions of moviegoers. Gerry chooses the roles that HE wants to make to enjoy making movies. Would I like to see him do something like a Benjamin Buttons? Sure! I'd be stupid if I said no. I'd love to see Gerry be a commercial success. However, I also want him to do it if that's what he wants to do. I think Gerry became an actor because he loves the art of acting. The rest is icing on the cake.

I would hate to see Gerry make a movie that he didn't want to make just to make money or to please the fans. I want him around as long as possible and if that means I don't get to see him make a movie like Dear Frankie, etc. ever again, so be it. I'm happy supporting his career as he sees fit.

Yes! I love how diverse Gerry's projects are, and I love that he chooses them for himself, and not necessarily for his fans, for the film industry, or seeking recognition from his peers. He's living life to make himself happy, and he's making some really impressive art in the process. I too will gladly support any project Gerry chooses to undertake, even if it's not my favorite genre. I love seeing his diversity, and as much as I loved his portrayal of the Phantom, I think I would get bored if that kind of thing was all I ever see. I like the Gerry who makes me laugh by saying dirty things, I like the Gerry who makes me cry by a moving portrayal in an emotional film, I like the Gerry who makes me jump out of my seat when he goes for the steakbone (), and I like the Gerry who makes me slap my hands together and scream "F*&% yea!" when I see him kicking a$$ and blowing sh*t up.

I just love me some Gerry. 'Nuff said.

Steph

[AngelofMusic]

For me, you know, I`ve been a Gerry fan for such a long time, pondering what first drew me to him is almost surreal. Phantom is what made me a fan, and its honestly the first time where I saw a movie and HAD to know who this person was....I HAD to know, I was just so intrigued, so drawn. Then again, I also have to recognize that because I`m a huge fan of the musical and have been since I was little; that maybe it was just the story or the character that made me go so bonkers (And I`ve seen the show as well, three years ago in New York City).But, I really don`t think thats just it though, it was Gerry too, it was where he took the character, it was how he made me cry and ache for the pain within this man. It was the passion he exuded, the passion in his voice....it spoke to me, clear as glass.

and as a sideline note,I know I`m already in the minority here, as most are for the sequel, and I`m extremely AGAINST a sequel to POTO....and even more so to Gerry being in a film version of it.

and honestly, No, I don`t think I will ever have that moment again with him...however, it doesn`t mean that he hasn`t continued to move me, and impress me with his performances, because he has. Performces in movies like Law Abiding Citizen, are the reason that I`m still so dedicated. I was 17 when Gerry`s Phantom blew me away, and now I`m 21 and yes that spark has faded, but in no way has it completely dissappeared...that can`t happen.

Edited November 8, 2009 by AngelofMusic

[Susan~Sporran]

As I said from the start, I don't dispute or disagree with ANY of Gerry's career choices. He has done what he wanted to do, he has gotten himself into all different genres which put him in front of all different audiences. I say BRAVO to him for that. I think going into producing is another brilliant move in his career. I'm also not expecting that those of us who already discovered him will do so again, we can't go back and recreate the past in the future. What I do hope for is a role in his future that creates that in new viewers. Just because people may have seen him in other movies doesn't mean that a future role couldn't be "the one" to ignite a passionate response, or bring a new fan. Many people had seen him in other roles before Phantom and didn't even realize it was the same guy until Phantom sent them scrambling to find out "who is this guy?" and then they realized they had seen Timeline, or TR2, or D2k or ROF or Attila. It isn't the NUMBERS I'm really talking about (though that is a by-product of such passion) it is the INTENSITY of emotion that a role can spark. If there is such a role in his future it will not be taken to please fans, or earn new ones, or to make a paycheck, it will be because (as I mentioned) it is a part that speaks to his soul, like Phantom did. While Phantom will never be recreated (and I am among those who hope he does NOT do the sequel if it makes it to film), I do believe there are other roles that could evoke a similar level of passionate intensity among new fans, and maybe reignite it in those who have "lost that loving feeling" for him over time. He can still be "new" to many who haven't experienced it yet.

[Jeb]

Actually, I think it's a good thing that his appeal has gone far beyond his 'fans'. General audiences is what he needs to sustain a career and both TUT and LAC attracted strong, consistent general audiences. His fans never were the cause of his films' success or failure economically. There simply never were enough of us to matter significantly at the box office. We were great for getting him media attention, being a morale booster, and, increasingly, tabloid and paparazzi attention (they print it because we, generically speaking, read it and click for it) but not for his economic success.

Phantom was unique for many. I agree that it is unlikely to be repeated. Gerry is traveling beyond us and reaching a broader audience. Some will continue to cheer him on because their allegiance has always been to him, not to any particular character. Some of those smaller fansites were begun as a way of gaining access to him, what they thought would get them a personal connection. Not all by any means but a few. It didn't and the cost and time needed to maintain such sites became too much. Some drift off to new obsessions or lose interest altogether in fandom. In some ways, it doesn't matter. He can sustain a viable career without us and there will always be interest in seeing a "movie star" up close whether they have signed onto a fansite or not.

Many fans came to him after '300', many after PSILY, many after TUT and so on. They like what he offers on screen although they may not be passionate about a fictional character he has embodied. Many more will come if they know they will get an entertaining film if he's in it. TUT and LAC are proof of that. Many of his fans today know little of POTO and don't care. As time goes by the quality of projects he's able to be a part of will grow. Lots of actors have long, successful careers without the frenzy of an enthusiastic fanbase. They have fans, they have those who just 'like' them on screen, they have those who don't care one way or another but like their films, and those who actively dislike them just because.

I know I will never have trouble remaining loyal to Gerry. I often have trouble remaining interested in fansites. As they become more insular, the same voices in familiar conversation with each other, here and elsewhere, the less need I have of fansites. Disembodied voices saying the same things over and over becomes less necessary as time goes on. Gerry is my one and only and will be for the forseeable future. Fandom is not.

And the expense of traveling is not to be counted lightly. Most people don't have the funds to repeat over and over long distance journeys to support anybody. Once it's done, once you have the experience, you may not need to do it again or choose to do other things. And a lot of people, supportive in their ticket purchases, would rather not be identified as 'a fan'. Not everybody regards it as a positive image, particularly as one ages.

Those who have made friends will continue those relationships but no friendship survives on only one link. Gerry has been the link and I'm sure they've found other reasons to remain friends than a love of Gerry-films. Since fans turned up in Oslo to cheer him, I'm not worried about Gerry's fan presence at any particular film opening. His premieres have plenty of people who come, who are vocally in support of him, who clamor for his attention. They may not be part of any fanbase. That's better for him. The more people he reaches, the more people who pay to see his films, the more opportunities he has going forward.

Gerry's world does not revolve around us. We did what we did as much for ourselves as for him, perhaps more. He'll be fine. It interests me that these kind of concerns always come when Gerry is at a professional high point. He has just released a very successful independent production from his own production company. He's on a high, more visable and recognizable than ever. Cheered at every appearance he makes and applauded by audiences at TV and film screenings. He has made it to the mainstream.

His choice of projects will be interesting as time goes on. He has always seemed as reluctant, to me, of becoming a romantic hero as becoming an action hero. I think, perhaps, he wants to remain an actor who can handle all types of roles and not linked to one type. He gave us Phantom, he gave us 300. He has given us comedies and dramas. I suspect he's like to keep us guessing what will come next. If you continue to support him, he will always be grateful but I don't expect him to choose roles on what his vocal 'fans' want. Since the fanboys, with a much louder voice, want him to remain an action hero I can't say I'm unhappy about that. Maybe a romantic role is in the offing, maybe not. I'm content to wait and see.

jane

P.S. I do sympathize, Susan, in that it would be nice for us and hopefully for him if he had a film that took the world by storm. One that ignited everyone in a frenzy of enthusiasm. But even POTO didn't do that for a very large part of the audience. We were, are, passionate about his portrayal but we were never large in number. Just vocal and in communion with each other so that it felt sometimes like everybody was passionate about it. Same with 300. There are fanboys who regard it as the greatest film ever made - and those who think it's a waste of time. There are women and girls who swoon over Gerry Kennedy or Mike Chadway and those who wonder why he wastes his time with rom-coms. That's just the nature of a public career. But I'm sure there will be surprises down the road and sooner or later a film role that will take everyone by surprise, perhaps even Gerry, with its intensity and appeal. I do think this coming decade of films will be the best and most interesting to come. I'm ready for the surprises.

Edited November 8, 2009 by Jeb

[AbandonThought]

As I said from the start, I don't dispute or disagree with ANY of Gerry's career choices. He has done what he wanted to do, he has gotten himself into all different genres which put him in front of all different audiences. I say BRAVO to him for that. I think going into producing is another brilliant move in his career. I'm also not expecting that those of us who already discovered him will do so again, we can't go back and recreate the past in the future. What I do hope for is a role in his future that creates that in new viewers. Just because people may have seen him in other movies doesn't mean that a future role couldn't be "the one" to ignite a passionate response, or bring a new fan. Many people had seen him in other roles before Phantom and didn't even realize it was the same guy until Phantom sent them scrambling to find out "who is this guy?" and then they realized they had seen Timeline, or TR2, or D2k or ROF or Attila. It isn't the NUMBERS I'm really talking about (though that is a by-product of such passion) it is the INTENSITY of emotion that a role can spark. If there is such a role in his future it will not be taken to please fans, or earn new ones, or to make a paycheck, it will be because (as I mentioned) it is a part that speaks to his soul, like Phantom did. While Phantom will never be recreated (and I am among those who hope he does NOT do the sequel if it makes it to film), I do believe there are other roles that could evoke a similar level of passionate intensity among new fans, and maybe reignite it in those who have "lost that loving feeling" for him over time. He can still be "new" to many who haven't experienced it yet.

Who's to say that any of Gerry's recent roles hasn't sparked such intensity of emotion in some fans? The fandemonium can only at best be a proxy for this intensity. Just because there hasn't been a measureable resurgence of fans at public appearances doesn't mean this isn't occurring. Like you said, it's not about the numbers, and intensity is difficult to perceive. Just a thought.

Steph

Edited November 8, 2009 by AbandonThought

[AbandonThought]

I don't have time to go in-depth and comment specifically, but I just wanted to say, I loved your contributions to the discussion, Jane!

Steph

[phoenixgirl]

Who's to say that any of Gerry's recent roles hasn't sparked such intensity of emotion in some fans? The fandemonium can only at best be a proxy for this intensity. Just because there hasn't been a measureable resurgence of fans at public appearances doesn't mean this isn't occurring. Like you said, it's not about the numbers, and intensity is difficult to perceive. Just a thought.

Steph

Excellent point, and like Jane pointed out, he was greeted with many fans in Oslo, and I would bet money that he'll have an even bigger crowd in Glasgow.

This is a great thread. Many interesting thoughts. Jane, I always seem to agree with you.

[Jeb]

Thanks, guys!

j

[heISmyGspot]

I'm still here, giving him all I've got. I may not be online as much as I once was. But in terms of financial support, gatherings, etc. -- I'm here as much as I ever was (if not more so). (I'd be attending Phantom Pheast except that it conflicted with a family shin-dig this year).

Honestly, after seeing him at LAC, I feel sorry for him as a human being and have "guilt issues" about wanting to see him in person. I know that's the "choice he's made," and it "comes with the territory," blah, blah, blah. That doesn't mean I should be part of the feeding frenzy waiting to peck on him. (I'm ashamed that I was).

He has changed also. He is not able to interact with us the way he once did, although it was nice to see glimpses of "Old Gerry" at the Oslo premiere. In Oslo, it was nice to see him inviting fans to interact with him. At the LAC party, he simply appeared to be a trapped animal giving his performance, waiting for his moment to get away.

It's quite the paradox. One side wants to show support in a public venue; conversely, my soul aches when thinking about him at the LAC premiere.

For now, I'll support him from afar with my ticket/DVD purchases and using his movies to get together with my friends. That's plenty for me; hopefully, it's enough for Gerry.

ETA: I liked a great portion of your post, Jeb -- especially as it relates to fansites, etc.

[phoenixgirl]

Holly, I wasn't inside at the party but I can tell you that outside on the street he was his regular loving self. There was no hint of feeling that he didn't want to be there. I think he knows that we wait there all day waiting for him, and I don't feel one ounce of guilt when he does accommodate our attention. Maybe inside at a party it's another story. But outside, it's the way it is and I honestly believe he feeds off the attention. He was in a great mood, very happy and smiling and glad to see us.

It makes me sad to think that you feel guilt over your time with Gerry. While he is accommodating to his fans, I also know that if he doesn't want to be somewhere or talk to someone he doesn't. I hope you can find the joy and happiness that it should have elicited in you.

[GreenEyes]

I think the face of fandom is changing personally and we have to realise the Gerry of POTO, the struggling actor, isn't there anymore. He evolved into a star and we, the fans, made him what he is today in a way. Deep down, Gerry, the man, is the same we always knew and loved, but his career is not what it used to be and will never be that again. Why dwell in the past?

I don't see this as a sad thing. Far from it. I think we need to embrace what he has become and be proud of it. And we have to look forward to what he will evolve into in the future as well. Frankly, I think the craze that followed POTO was quite excessive. I don't think, other than Elvis or the Beatles, any other actor in the beginning of his career had to deal with such a huge wave of adoration. Now we do see that for younger actors like Robert Pattison. Thank God Gerry was older when he had to face the adulation of the fans. He was better equiped emotionally than the young ones who are now facing this phenomenon.

You know what gets me? We tend to always refer to POTO as Gerry's best role when in fact it wasn't. Far from it. Yes it was full of emotions and Gerry does play the tormented soul like no other actor can, but composition wise it left to be desired. When we take a step back and look solely at the roles he played, I think the Stranger and Clyde were two characters that showed off Gerry's range alot better. He was intense in both roles, subdued, yet solid and deep for the first one, and tormented, obsessed and insane for the second. I'm looking forward to what he choses next. I have no doubt he will continue to entertain us for many years and we have yet to see the full range of his talent as an actor. Personally, I'm looking forward to seeing him play a dramatic role.

[AbandonThought]

Good point about the Phantom not necessarily being Gerry's best performance, Green Eyes. Yes, it was very moving, but I think you're right that some of his subsequent roles have better shown off his range. Clyde in particular, as such a tortured, yet good, and and in some ways still misguided "hero" is a good example. Great observation!

Steph

[JustCallMeTracy]

I think a lot of reason Phantom and 300 were so big the story proceeding them.

I definitely fell in love with Erik and the idea of Megerik after watching Phantom Of The Opera for the umpteenth time and enduring a hiccuping cry....

This quote is what drew me to Gerry and as far as that goes to Jen.

I appreciate the GALs that tolerate my love of Jen as well as my Love Gerry.

Had it not been for Gerry's Phantom I would have not began a discovery of this character Erik whom I am now in love with in many books and so far three movies. None do much as Gerry's version. Only in the original book by Gaston Leroux and Susan Kaye's Phantom do I see another entity than Gerry as the Phantom aka Erik.

300 is the first Gerry movie I ever rented and it was so awesome.

Of course being female and a set of eyeballs I like Gerry better even though he does not have the usual sculptured pretty boy romance novel cover looks that usually make me interested.

Gerry's personality on interviews made me adore him more and more.

Being agoraphobic and sure I am not the only fan that has to wait for the DVDs to get our fixes. There are clips and other things we see on computers and T.V. that we use that only whets the hunger more for of what the average Gerry fan in decent health that makes enough money to purchase DVDs, Movie Tickets, Go to Premieres and shows Gerry is on.

I happen to like BOAW, RNR, and what I have seen of Gamer thus far. In fact Shattered is one of my favs.

I loved Little White Lies another movie people said I would not like.

Thus far there is no Gerry movie I do not like. There is only one two I watch less than the others. Beowulf because some of the language and PSILY because I cannot bear Gerry is dead through so much of the movie.

I would if able support Gerry in I were able in attending all those things, but I cannot even go to the movie theater.

I try to express my fandom for Gerry at these sites.

I am sure I am not the only fan by far that can only watch Gerry on a computer or television screen.

In fact I know I am that.

I hope sometime Gerry will realize we fans with limitations love him just as much.

I think the best way to be a good Gerry fan for me is to be kind to my fellow GALs.

God in Heaven knows GALs has been extremely kind to me.

Both the site and individual members.

From what I have seen of Clyde in clips here there on the computer and the spoilers I read. I was thinking this tortured man could be as good of a character as Erik. I have also heard Kable was a great character and Mike.

The Character of Erik goes back to the 1800s. It was around before Gerry and it will be around after Gerry. Though Gerry shall always be my favorite phantom.

Maybe the character in Slide will grab our strings as Leo and Erik did.

I hope I did not get off topic in this.

Susan, If I did forgive me and please delete.

Love,

Tracy

P.S. Not going to the movies and having very limited Cable is why it took me until 2007 to be a Gerry fan. I always say better late than never.

Edited November 8, 2009 by JustCallMeTracy

[ladyfran]

I'm not sure but I believe what Susan was referring to was that after POTO was when we had the largest influx of new fans and that most are still here! I don't think she was implying it was his best role yet.....but maybe for some it was. I know a few that think it was ....at least for them! That I believe is why we all have our own individual thoughts, likes and dislikes....I've said it before and I'll say it again...there are a few of Gerry's newest movies that were just okay for me but I still support him by paying at the box office and buying the DVD! We just simply all have different tastes... I think it's been said enough times that Gerry chooses his roles the way he wants and he of course has the clout to do so....but lest we forget...at one time he did not! Even after POTO he was still an unknown and had to pay his dues to get where he is today...as fans I say we DID have a hand in helping him along! Sorry but if you don't have a fan base in this business...you don't have an audience! To me he is a brilliant actor and I still say there is a movie out there that he is going to do and he will bring the whole Damn house down! ............JMO Galfriends!

Frannie

Edited November 8, 2009 by ladyfran

[phoenixgirl]

I think the face of fandom is changing personally and we have to realise the Gerry of POTO, the struggling actor, isn't there anymore. He evolved into a star and we, the fans, made him what he is today in a way. Deep down, Gerry, the man, is the same we always knew and loved, but his career is not what it used to be and will never be that again. Why dwell in the past?

I don't see this as a sad thing. Far from it. I think we need to embrace what he has become and be proud of it. And we have to look forward to what he will evolve into in the future as well. Frankly, I think the craze that followed POTO was quite excessive. I don't think, other than Elvis or the Beatles, any other actor in the beginning of his career had to deal with such a huge wave of adoration. Now we do see that for younger actors like Robert Pattison. Thank God Gerry was older when he had to face the adulation of the fans. He was better equiped emotionally than the young ones who are now facing this phenomenon.

I agree that it was beneficial that Gerry was older when the fervor happened. I saw Rob Pattinson at Comic Con two years ago and he didn't know how to handle it. I felt really bad for him.

Anyway, I also agree that I don't think Gerry needs another "fandemonium". I think he just needs to be accepted as a talented actor and a good person. From what I see here and on Twitter, there are hundreds who know who he is and are fans. And it would be my guess that's all he really wants (not purporting to know what he wants; just a guess).