Heavenly Comeback: Dogma Returns

Kevin Smith is set to revisit his 1999 cult favorite Dogma, nearly 25 years after its original release. Speaking at the Dogma Confessional panel during Vulture Festival on Sunday, the renowned filmmaker and mastermind behind the View Askewniverse revealed his ambitious plans for a sequel to the cherished comedy. Fans of the iconic film have plenty to look forward to, as Smith teased the potential comeback of Ben Affleck and Matt Damon reprising their roles as the mischievous fallen angels Bartleby and Loki.

“Expect a cameo from them—more than a f-ing cameo,” Smith shared, adding his characteristic humor. “The only way we get a Dogma sequel made is if they’re there. So count on those guys being there.”

The original Dogma follows the irreverent journey of two rogue angels attempting to exploit a loophole to return to heaven. The film is celebrated for its star-studded cast, including Alan Rickman, Salma Hayek, Chris Rock, and Alanis Morissette, and for its satirical take on religion. The film also holds a special place in Smith's View Askewniverse alongside titles like Clerks and Mallrats.

Smith’s announcement comes hot on the heels of news that Dogma will finally get a new home release, with rights now in the hands of a company eager to explore sequels, TV adaptations, and more. For years, the film’s distribution was mired in legal limbo, making this a momentous shift for fans eager to revisit the satirical classic.

The timing of this sequel feels especially poignant given Smith’s evolving relationship with his work and its legacy. Following Harvey Weinstein’s downfall in 2017, Smith publicly denounced his early collaborations with the disgraced producer and redirected his Dogma royalties to charity. At the time, Smith rejected a Weinstein-backed proposal to make a Dogma 2, stating his discomfort with the association.

With the legal and creative hurdles cleared, Smith is ready to breathe new life into the franchise. While it’s still early days, his enthusiasm is undeniable. “I found a way in,” Smith said. “Some people will be like, ‘Don’t f-ing touch it. You’ll ruin it.’ And I’m here to tell you: I will.”

The unholiest of sequels promises a reunion not just of angels but of the devoted fans who’ve waited patiently for 25 years.