Mon Feb. 09 2009 10:16:28 PM
Phelps a role model for potheads, says director Kevin Smith
cp24.com
In this file photo provided Kellogg Co., a prototype of a box of Kellogg's Corn Flakes with U.S. swimming star Michael Phelps is seen. (AP Photo/Kellogg Co.)
Kevin Smith and Jason Mewes in 'Clerks II.' |
Filmmaker Kevin Smith thinks Michael Phelps should stop apologizing and embrace the image of the pot-smoking poster boy.
Follow Sunday's "Clerks II" screening at the Bloor Cinema, the director offered his unique take on the public relations nightmare that began after the record-breaking swimmer was photographed smoking marijuana.
"What that says to me is, 'you can get high and still win 86 medals,'" said Smith, whose cult-status Jersey series -- including Clerks, Dogma and Chasing Amy -- portrays a group of slackers, mallrats and low-level drug dealers.
"The way I look at it, the (guy) has worked hard from birth -- let him hit the bong."
Smith's comments came during a lively question-and-answer period following the film's 10 p.m. screening.
The event was part of the theatre's Kevin Smith Festival, which includes six films followed by some face-time with the director, who was joined by on-screen sidekick Jason Mewes on Sunday.
Wearing a trenchcoat, short pants and bright white tennis shoes, Smith strolled back and forth while taking questions, occasionally wiping his sweaty forehead on the red velvet curtains hanging across the proscenium stage.
While many of his fawning inquisitors hoped for tips on following in his footsteps, others asked for advice on their personal lives or ventured into current events.
Reacting to a question about Phelps' conundrum - which included the loss of his lucrative Kellogg's sponsorship -- Smith suggested certain customers might still be likely to purchase Corn Flakes with the American swimmer on the box.
"I say, put him on more cereal boxes," said Smith, eliciting cheers and claps from his audience.
"That's what we like to eat when we're high."
The Kevin Smith Festival runs from Sunday to Tuesday at the Bloor Cinema.
| E-Mail Story |
Comments are now closed for this story
February 10, 2009 at 10:44:50 PM
Gus
Let him be, I don't smoke weed now but did in the past.
The guy won sooo many medals for his country, "camman" give him a break he deserves it. Its not like he is killing civilians in another country.
Punishment doesn't fit the crime!!
February 10, 2009 at 12:03:00 AM
DI
Our society is plagued with drugs, and a role model for so many should indeed lose his sponsor. Mr. Smith's movies, all fall under the theme of loser, slackers and his endorsement of Marijuana is not surprising. I guess he will just appeal to even more losers who think drugs are cool. Marijuana is a stepping stone to other more serious drugs, and the conservative society who is making the big fuss, should keep it up.
February 10, 2009 at 12:30:05 AM
John, Toronto
While pot use is not a terrible evil, we have to consider some facts.
It is a health issue. It is a known carcinogen, as it has been linked to testicular cancer (70%) increase in likelihood for smokers, and lung cancer. Also, short-term memory impairment and other negative cognitive changes have been noted for users.
February 10, 2009 at 3:53:41 AM
cindy
Gus, I agree with you. Leave Michael Phelps alone. The guy worked hard for his medals. He should stop apologizing to the public. Keep winning goals in the future Michael.
February 10, 2009 at 7:18:20 AM
Gerry
I wonder how the media would have reacted if they had a picture of him passed out surrounded by vodka bottles. The only thing he did wrong here was get caught.
February 10, 2009 at 7:56:44 AM
Gio - Toronto
Phelps made a poor decision but now he has to deal with it.Why is it that in this day and age,celebrities think they can do whatever they want and in the case of more serious offences be 'let off' lightly ? Look at movie stars,sports stars,musicians - a crime is a crime.
Phelps KNOWS he is a role model and has only himself to blame. Did he expect his buddy's photo to NOT make the rounds of websites and blogs around the world considering his fame ?
As for all you pot-smoking males , who think it's cool 'dude'... I guess you didn't hear results of a medical survey released yesterday that a very high percentage of you will end up with testicular cancer - GUARANTEED !!....'Bong On'....at your peril !