Gero film debuts in LA today

It has been nearly two years since Stargate Atlantis Executive Producer Martin Gero approached GateWorld with word of his first foray into feature films. Now the picture, which we will call “YPF” for the duration of this article, has gained international notoriety and success.

Originally premiering in Canada on June 13, the film arrives in Los Angeles today.

GateWorld caught up with Gero to discuss the whirlwind that has been the reception for the movie, and see if he’s willing to drop hints about what he and writing partner Aaron Abrams (“Kanayo”) might do next.

How has YPF been received thus far?
It’s been really amazing because it’s considered a bit of an indie hit up here in Canada. We opened on far more screens than I ever dreamed of, played every major city and Canada and have made pretty good money. We were in the theaters for almost four months, which for an independent comedy in the middle of summer is kind of unheard of. People really connected to the film and the word of mouth has been great for our box office.

The movie has garnered a great deal of notoriety. Do you know of any high-profile individuals who have seen the movie and have changed their tune from how they pre-judged it?
It sparked a national debate on censorship here in Canada that required us to actually show the film to members of Parliament and Senators … that was a crazy night. We invited a lot of our detractors, but only our supporters showed up. If anything I think the success of the film has proven that Canadians are not as up-tight as certain MP’s think they are.

Eric (Josh Cooke) and Mia (Sonja Bennett) discover that love is not easily cast aside.

What has been the most rewarding part of this entire experience?
The whole thing has been pretty amazing. Being an opening night selection for the Toronto International Film Festival has been a dream of mine. Getting a positive review from Roger Ebert … it’s just surreal.

The film arrives in LA today. What are your thoughts?
I’m really excited that it’s getting an American release. We spent a few weeks in New York and the film was well reviewed and sold a bunch of tickets. So hopefully LA will be even better.

Are your wheels spinning for another movie? Can you give us any hints?
My co-writer Aaron and I are just about done the first draft of our next one … can’t say anything about it yet.

YPF opens at the Laemmle Sunset 5 in Los Angeles. Click here for showtimes and tickets. Be sure to visit the film’s official Web site at YPFthemovie.com! (Warning: Explicit Content)