Community Creator Dan Harmon Opens Up About Pressure and Anxiety Surrounding Upcoming Movie
Fans of the beloved TV show Community have been eagerly anticipating an upcoming movie, and creator Dan Harmon is feeling the weight of their expectations. In a recent interview with THR, Harmon expressed his gratitude for the dedicated fanbase, stating that they have been incredibly supportive throughout the show’s run.
However, Harmon also acknowledged that he had unknowingly hurt some fans during his public feud with former cast member Chevy Chase. He realized that they had invested in the world of Greendale, which he created, and were not interested in seeing an unfiltered version of himself. Harmon expressed regret for not considering their feelings at the time.
Community’s passionate fanbase played a significant role in the show’s journey to “six seasons and a movie,” a rallying cry that echoed throughout its final season on Yahoo! in 2015. After years of anticipation, Peacock finally greenlit the movie in 2022. Harmon admitted to feeling terrified about the prospect of doing the movie justice, acknowledging that fear might not result in positive outcomes.
Harmon emphasized the importance of being true to oneself rather than trying to fulfill perceived expectations. However, he also expressed anxiety about the logistical challenge of gathering the entire cast once the SAG-AFTRA strike concludes. Harmon revealed that the appeal of the movie lies in seeing most of the original cast together again, with the exception of Chevy Chase, who will not be returning. One exciting development is the return of Donald Glover, whose busy schedule had cast doubt on his involvement.
Harmon shared that they planned to shoot the movie in Atlanta to accommodate Glover’s commitments, and the actor was enthusiastic about participating. Nevertheless, the challenge of aligning everyone’s schedules once more remains a task that may prove difficult.
Joel McHale, who played Jeff Winger on the show, previously mentioned that the movie was close to filming before the writers’ strike commenced. Harmon and one of his former Community writing partners, Andrew Guest, still need to finalize the script, indicating that their focus is currently on that aspect.
As Community fans anticipate the long-awaited movie, Dan Harmon’s honesty about his anxieties and commitment to meeting fans’ expectations offers a glimmer of hope for a project that holds tremendous sentimental value for both him and the show’s dedicated community.