Kyle Newman became the envy of many when he swept the lovely actress, Jaime King off her feet and into marital bliss. Now, he is the “galactic envy” of every uber-Star Wars fan, since he actually filmed part of his latest film, “Fanboys” at George Lucas' Skywalker Ranch and directed Billy D. Williams, Carrie Fisher, and William Shatner (for all you Trekkies).

For all you who don’t know, Newman’s movie, “Fanboys” just recently received theatrical distribution and it has been a long time coming. The main cast stars: Christopher Marquette (Linus), Sam Huntington (Eric), Dan Fogler (Hutch), Jay Baruchel (Windows), and Kristen Bell (Zoe). Other memorable performances include, Kevin Smith, Seth Rogen (Admiral Seasholtz), Jaime King (Amber), David Denman (Chaz) and Danny Trejo (The Chief.)

Being  ‘passionate about your film, never giving up and enjoying the journey’ along the way are simple philosophies that Newman bides by. And this is apparent, especially since “Fanboys” is a film that he helped develop and stood by for quite some time.Tenacity, it seems, is also one adjective that would precisely sum up this young man’s adventure for the past 6 years.

When delving into Newman’s background, he unabashedly admits his childhood fascination with Star Wars. It makes sense that his natural progression would lean towards the arts. And indeed, it did. He enjoyed drawing, building models, design, architecture and photography, which segued into theatre since he enjoyed working with other artists...which organically led to NYU film school.

When asked if he felt as if film school was necessary, he explained that it gives you a foundation to work from, keeps you steadfast, and enables you to form bonds with like-minded creative-types that are dedicated to their art and it is these individuals who don’t give up---that you end up working with again. He also stated that one of the most important things in general is, “not to give up on your self.” 

So, what does he find compelling in a screenplay? Newman offers, “Concept and character, without a doubt. If I cannot wrap my head around the character, neither can anyone else. And in order to do a film, hands down, you must feel passionate about it.”

“Fanboys” is an example of Newman’s passion and determination. He read the script during his matriculation at NYU and was an instant fan (no pun intended) and as fate would have it–the manuscript reappeared in his lap several years later. It seems as if the universe was just waiting for him to take the words from the page and envelope us into the mindset of an original  “fan boy”.  He did just that.

Newman pulled together his team and you may be surprised to know that one of the film’s producers is Mr. Kevin Spacey. Coincidentally, it was Spacey, who phoned Lucas personally about allowing the “ultimate fan boy” and his crew the access they needed to get the ball (or film) rolling.

Newman described his experience at the ranch to be quick (you’re always in a hurry filming – and especially this crew—they actually shot 57 locations in 23 days) but pleasurable. He told us that they graciously opened their doors and embraced their presence since it was apparent that the material was being treated with extreme reverence. 

When asked about the most challenging element in making “Fanboys” Newman admits, “It was a small movie and there were a lot of the cooks in the kitchen.” He stated, “It was always important to me to go back to the original version and stay true to that vision.” He continued, “There may have been easier paths—yet, I never took the easy way.”

“Fanboys” is a drama- comedy about true friendship, which revolves around 4 high school friends who are all coming to terms dealing with life’s curve balls and defining themselves in an uncertain world. However, it is the galactic universe which bonded them all in their youth and eventually brings them all back together again…for a very good reason. It is full of clever dialogue, uncanny situations, touching moments, and noteworthy cameos. The audience laughed heartily throughout —plus—Newman’s movie had just the right amount of heart.    

Newman is currently in pre-production for a movie, based on a comic strip, called “Emo Boys.”

In closing, we asked Newman if he would like to assuage any misconceptions about himself out there, he stated, “Yes, I am not only attracted to movies that are based on comic strips, I like to pride myself on being a chameleon—all across the board.” 

It is a thrill to feature Newmanat this point in his career and we look forward to keeping abreast of his next adventure. Please check out the film’s website: www.fanboys-themovie.com for locations as the film is in limited release. You can also become a “fan” on Facebook.

Left: Tamara Chandler with "Fanboys" star, Christopher Marquette. Right: with Kyle Newman-- at the advance screening sponsored by Gen Art and Acura in San Francisco. 

Photos courtesy of The Weinstien Co./T. Chandler