Sony Pictures Home Entertainment has revealed that it will release The Boondock Saints II: All Saints Day on DVD and Blu-ray on March 9, 2010. The Apparation film release has made $10 million at the domestic box office to date.
The sequel to the cult indie film, which remains one of the top-selling DVDs, catches up with the McManus brothers as they return to Boston after being framed for the murder of a priest. Joined by a new accomplice, the Saints exact vengeance on those responsible and discover a deeper plot rooted in their own family’s legacy of violence. Joining original cast members Sean Patrick Flanery, Norman Reedus, David Della Rocco and Billy Connolly are Clifton Collins Jr., Julie Benz, Peter Fonda and Judd Nelson.
The releases will contain lots of bonus materials and extra features. The DVD will be available for the suggested retail price of $27.96, while the Blu-ray will retail for $34.95.
The Boondock Saints II: All Saints Day releases will feature the following bonus materials:
Deleted Scenes
Filmmaker and Cast Commentaries
“Unprecedented Access: Behind the Scenes” featurette
“Billy Connolly and Troy Duffy: Unedited” featurette
“Inside the Vault: The Weapons” (Blu-ray exclusive)
“The Cast Confesses: Secrets from the Set” (Blu-ray exclusive)
“The Boondock Saints Hit Comic-Con” (Blu-ray exclusive)
‘Boondock Saints’ fans unite! Are interested in making this 10th Anniversary Celebration of the original, groundbreaking cult film‘Boondock Saints’ to the big screen in movie theatres nationwide for an exclusive one-night event around St. Patrick’s Day 2010?
If so, demand that it come to the big screen in your hometown! We’re planning to pull out all of the stops for this event with special behind-the-scenes footage, an interview with writer/director Troy Duffy and other special guests and surprises.
It’s up to you to make this event happen! Demand it NOW, post the widget to your personal pages and encourage your friends to do the same!
Spread the word, because the sooner your voice is heard, the sooner we can start making it happen. DEMAND IT HERE! >
More exciting news for fans anxiously awaiting Troy Duffy’s Boondock Saints II: All Saints Day as the action-packed film is set to expand once again on November 25th, 2009.
The Boondock Saints II: All Saints Day is written and directed by Troy Duffy. The film stars Sean Patrick Flanery, Norman Reedus, Billy Connolly, Clifton Collins Jr., and Julie Benz.
Troy Duffy recently issued a message to the dedicated fans of the franchise who are clamoring for more information about the film’s ever-expanding release.
Here is what he had to say:
BOONDOCK FANS!
Boondock II is scheduled for wider release next week and even further the week after. Hopefully it gets to all of you. But the fans are fueling this thing. You’re in control. As long as you guys keep showing up to the theaters it is presently in, it will spread like a virus. To the fans that “have” and “are currently” showing up, thanks. The fate of the rest of the flock is in your hands!
At this point with all the fan screenings I have attended with various cast members I have gotten to see this thing with about 3,000 fans, all in. Reactions have been off the charts. Personally, I’m a VERY proud Pappa. Victory is ours!
I know this does little to satisfy those of you who want to see it now and can’t but patience, Grasshopper, patience…T.Duff
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Synopsis:The Boondock Saints II: All Saints Day is the much-anticipated sequel to the indie cult classic, The Boondock Saints. The film is the continuation of writer/director Troy Duffy’s tough, stylized cutting edge saga of the MacManus brothers (Norman Reedus, Sean Patrick Flanery). The two have been in deep hiding with their father, Il Duce (Billy Connolly), in the quiet valleys of Ireland, far removed from their former vigilante lives. When word comes that a beloved priest has been killed by sinister forces from deep within the mob, the brothers return to Boston to mount a violent and bloody crusade to bring justice to those responsible. With a new partner in crime (Clifton Collins Jr., Star Trek) and a sexy FBI operative (Julie Benz, TV’s “Dexter”) hot on their trail…the Saints are back!
Troy Duffy, director of The Boondock Saints II: All Saints Day, has issued a message to the dedicated fans of the franchise who are clamoring for more information about the film’s ever-expanding release.
Here is what he had to say:
BOONDOCK FANS!
Boondock II is scheduled for wider release next week and even further the week after. Hopefully it gets to all of you. But the fans are fueling this thing. You’re in control. As long as you guys keep showing up to the theaters it is presently in, it will spread like a virus. To the fans that “have” and “are currently” showing up, thanks. The fate of the rest of the flock is in your hands!
At this point with all the fan screenings I have attended with various cast members I have gotten to see this thing with about 3,000 fans, all in. Reactions have been off the charts. Personally, I’m a VERY proud Pappa. Victory is ours!
I know this does little to satisfy those of you who want to see it now and can’t but patience, Grasshopper, patience…T.Duff
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The film received a expanded release on November 13th that brought the film to additional cities including Seattle, San Francisco, San Diego, Chicago, Detroit, Denver, Dallas, Atlanta, Houston, Scottsdale, Minneapolis, San Francisco, San Diego, Washington, D.C. and more.
Speaking for the staff of Icon Vs. Icon, who saw the film last weekend, Boondock II was definitely worth the wait. Boondock fans, be prepared to be blown out of the water!
The Boondock Saints II: All Saints Day is written and directed by Troy Duffy. The film stars Sean Patrick Flanery, Norman Reedus, Billy Connolly, Clifton Collins Jr., and Julie Benz.
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Synopsis:The Boondock Saints II: All Saints Day is the much-anticipated sequel to the indie cult classic, The Boondock Saints. The film is the continuation of writer/director Troy Duffy’s tough, stylized cutting edge saga of the MacManus brothers (Norman Reedus, Sean Patrick Flanery). The two have been in deep hiding with their father, Il Duce (Billy Connolly), in the quiet valleys of Ireland, far removed from their former vigilante lives. When word comes that a beloved priest has been killed by sinister forces from deep within the mob, the brothers return to Boston to mount a violent and bloody crusade to bring justice to those responsible. With a new partner in crime (Clifton Collins Jr., Star Trek) and a sexy FBI operative (Julie Benz, TV’s “Dexter”) hot on their trail…the Saints are back!
Apparition and Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions Group have announced that they have decided to expand The Boondock Saints II: All Saints Day “nationwide to additional markets” on November 13th 2009, due to the demand of the franchise’s dedicated fans.
The wider opening will bring the film to additional cities including Seattle, San Francisco, San Diego, Chicago, Detroit, Denver, Dallas, Atlanta, Houston, Scottsdale, Minneapolis, San Francisco, San Diego, Washington, D.C. and more.
In recent ‘Boondock Saints II’ news, director Troy Duffy issued a video message to fans in regards to how to find an official poster for the film. You can get the full details on that straight from the horses mouth at this location >
The Boondock Saints II: All Saints Day is written and directed by Troy Duffy. The film stars Sean Patrick Flanery, Norman Reedus, Billy Connolly, Clifton Collins Jr., and Julie Benz.
Synopsis:The Boondock Saints II: All Saints Day is the much-anticipated sequel to the indie cult classic, The Boondock Saints. The film is the continuation of writer/director Troy Duffy’s tough, stylized cutting edge saga of the MacManus brothers (Norman Reedus, Sean Patrick Flanery). The two have been in deep hiding with their father, Il Duce (Billy Connolly), in the quiet valleys of Ireland, far removed from their former vigilante lives. When word comes that a beloved priest has been killed by sinister forces from deep within the mob, the brothers return to Boston to mount a violent and bloody crusade to bring justice to those responsible. With a new partner in crime (Clifton Collins Jr., Star Trek) and a sexy FBI operative (Julie Benz, TV’s “Dexter”) hot on their trail…the Saints are back!
Director Troy Duffy is armed with a brand new iPhone and has just issued a brand new video update for Boondock Saints fans. In the video, he tells fans that you can get your hands on a poster for ‘Boondock Saints II: All Saints Day’ exclusively at Blockbuster Video. Check out what he had to say below…
The Boondock Saints II: All Saints Day is written and directed by Troy Duffy. The film stars Sean Patrick Flanery, Norman Reedus, Billy Connolly, Clifton Collins Jr., and Julie Benz.
Synopsis:The Boondock Saints II: All Saints Day is the much-anticipated sequel to the indie cult classic, The Boondock Saints. The film is the continuation of writer/director Troy Duffy’s tough, stylized cutting edge saga of the MacManus brothers (Norman Reedus, Sean Patrick Flanery). The two have been in deep hiding with their father, Il Duce (Billy Connolly), in the quiet valleys of Ireland, far removed from their former vigilante lives. When word comes that a beloved priest has been killed by sinister forces from deep within the mob, the brothers return to Boston to mount a violent and bloody crusade to bring justice to those responsible. With a new partner in crime (Clifton Collins Jr., Star Trek) and a sexy FBI operative (Julie Benz, TV’s “Dexter”) hot on their trail…the Saints are back!
Apparition and Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions Group have announced that they have decided to expand The Boondock Saints II: All Saints Day “nationwide to additional markets” on November 13th 2009, due to the demand of the franchise’s dedicated fans.
The wider opening will bring the film to additional cities including Seattle, San Francisco, San Diego, Chicago, Detroit, Dallas, Atlanta, Houston, and more.
The Boondock Saints II: All Saints Day is written and directed by Troy Duffy. The film stars Sean Patrick Flanery, Norman Reedus, Billy Connolly, Clifton Collins Jr., and Julie Benz.
Synopsis:The Boondock Saints II: All Saints Day is the much-anticipated sequel to the indie cult classic, The Boondock Saints. The film is the continuation of writer/director Troy Duffy’s tough, stylized cutting edge saga of the MacManus brothers (Norman Reedus, Sean Patrick Flanery). The two have been in deep hiding with their father, Il Duce (Billy Connolly), in the quiet valleys of Ireland, far removed from their former vigilante lives. When word comes that a beloved priest has been killed by sinister forces from deep within the mob, the brothers return to Boston to mount a violent and bloody crusade to bring justice to those responsible. With a new partner in crime (Clifton Collins Jr., Star Trek) and a sexy FBI operative (Julie Benz, TV’s “Dexter”) hot on their trail…the Saints are back!
The Boondock Saints II: All Saints Day, the much-anticipated sequel to the indie cult classic, The Boondock Saints, hits theaters in a limited release this weekend! Check out a list of cities below where you can catch the film and take a few minutes to check out our interviews with the cast of the film!
What’s Boondock Saints II All About?
The film is the continuation of writer/director Troy Duffy’s tough, stylized cutting edge saga of the MacManus brothers (Norman Reedus, Sean Patrick Flanery). The two have been in deep hiding with their father, Il Duce (Billy Connolly), in the quiet valleys of Ireland, far removed from their former vigilante lives. When word comes that a beloved priest has been killed by sinister forces from deep within the mob, the brothers return to Boston to mount a violent and bloody crusade to bring justice to those responsible. With a new partner in crime (Clifton Collins Jr., Star Trek) and a sexy FBI operative (Julie Benz, TV’s “Dexter”) hot on their trail…the Saints are back!
It has been more than a decade since director Troy Duffy made his explosive debut in Hollywood with his debut film ‘Boondock Saints’. Many people knew him as the then 28-year-old blue-collar Bostonian bartending at a west Hollywood hangout called J Sloan’s, who had sold the script for ‘The Boondock Saints’ to Harvey Weinstein’s independent powerhouse Miramax for $450,000. He was the toast of the town and quickly heralded as ‘the next big thing’, but he saw it all come crashing down around him as a result of his clashes with the studio and the release of a very unflattering documentary. His meteoric rise and fall became the stuff of Hollywood legend. For some young directors, the story could have ended there but Troy Duffy did not fade quietly into the night. In the years following its initial release, ‘Boondocks Saints’, a film that originally opened on a handful for screens, would go on to become one of the biggest cult sensations in movie history. The Hollywood elite may have underestimated the film, but the massive groundswell of support from its fans dictated not only a sequel but the return of the charismatic director. Armed with a star-studded cast featuring the likes of Peter Fonda, Billy Connolly, Judd Nelson, Julie Benz and The Saints themselves — Norman Reedus and Sean Patrick Flanery, this unstoppable director stands ready to once again light the fuse a movement that looks to make cinematic history.
Jason Price of Icon Vs. Icon recently caught up with Troy Duffy days before the film’s release. In the interview we discuss his return to filmmaking and the challenges of making both films, the die-hard fanbase that has propelled the film to “cult classic” status, and what he has in store for us in the years to come.
*Warning: This interview contains possible spoilers. Read on at your own risk!
I realize that you always had faith in the film, but did you have any idea that ‘Boondock Saints’ would develop into the cult phenomenon that it has?
No. The thing is that you can’t really set out to make a “cult film” and actually do it. It is always a breach labor, ya know? Something bad always has to happen. You can very simply boil it down to this — a cult is something that Hollywood doesn’t understand but the public did and somehow they take hold of it and they themselves take it and make it successful. That is exactly what happened with ‘Boondock’.
What do you think it is about ‘Boondock’ that intrigues the fans?
Every time I ask somebody that, I get a different set of answers. Some people like the brothers relationship with each other because it is their ideal for them and their own brother. Some people have a friend like Rocco. Some people like the religious imagery. Some people like the idea that they are just two really lucky Irish guys, ya know! [laughs] I get a different answer when I ask people about that, so I don’t know that it is any one thing about ‘Boondock’. It is a combination of everything about ‘Boondock’.
I know you hit some snags after the first film in the way of legal wrangling but I was curious to know how long did you have the script for ‘Boondock Saints II’ ready to go before you started filming?
Probably about two years, three years. That lawsuit lasted for five and the sequel rights were tied up in it. It wasn’t like there was any lack of people wanting to make the movie. There was always interest out there but we just couldn’t do it and we weren’t about to fold.
What was the biggest challenge in making ‘Boondock Saints II: All Saints Day’?
The fanbase. The first time around we didn’t have one. The second time they were looming over the set like a fuckin’ guardian angel! ‘Boondock’ fans frame fucked this movie into the ground, it’s no secret. They know every single line of dialogue. In doing the sequel, nobody wanted to be the guy who screwed up ‘Boondock II’ in any way, ya know?
Sure.
That fanbase is so volatile and they have deemed the original ‘Boondock’ as sacred ground. So our whole thing was that we cannot tread on that. We have to respect that first story and yet outdo it! It has to be like two brothers… ‘Boondock I and II’, they are related. They are blood to one another. So we had to look at it that way and make it for these specific fans. What I have tried to do is give them a totally new, unpredictable plot, yet everything they love about the first film.
Having said that, did you feel like there was more pressure on you the one the first film or making this sequel?
The sequel. Without a doubt! It was enough fuckin’ pressure to create a diamond! I mean, you have millions of fans that are looking at you hard, going “You better not fuck this up!” There are a whole bunch of fans that have said that a sequel should have never been made! You have that kind if fandom, that specific kind of cult fandom to live up to and it is a very, very difficult thing. Also, we basically had the same amount of money to make this one as we did the first one because of the exchange rate in Canada. During the first one we had 6 million and it was 67 cents on the dollar, so we were getting a 33% break. In 2008, the exchange rate was 94 and a half and we had 8 million, so literally the overage was cancelled out. We basically made both films for the same amount of money, technically.
How difficult was it for you to find the right mix of new people to bring in for ‘Boondock II’?
The only role that I really sought for was Julie Benz’s role. Finding her was a Godsend. When you finally find that actress that you know is “The One”, it’s like having really good sex! Just laying there and saying “God, that was awesome!” Clifton Collins Jr. was my friend for the last decade and me, him, Norman (Reedus), Sean (Patrick Flanery) and Billy (Connolly) used to hang out all the time, so he was always in the club. I wrote that role for Clifton. Judd (Nelson) was an old buddy of mine that just happened to be perfect for the role, in my opinion. Peter Fonda was a little difficult to find, but we did find him. I would have to say that Julie Benz was the most difficult role to cast and when I found her, I was walkin’ on cloud nine!
Looking back on making these films, you had some highs and lows of course, but what are your fondest memories of them?
From the second film, my fondest moment was seeing the film for the first time with a theater full of ‘Boondock’ fans. These are the people that we made this film for and me, Billy, Sean and Norm had our fingers crossed. At the end of the day we all knew that we had made a good film, but how good is always the possession of the public. They’re gonna tell you how good you are and by the end of that screening my question was answered. So I’d say that was my fondest moment of ‘Boondock II’. My fondest moment of ‘Boondock I’ … hummm… there was so much turmoil involved in that movie and the fact that Columbine prevented us from getting a theatrical release, all of those things were kind of depressing, but what it did was help the film become a “cult classic”. My fondest moment was when the public had deemed it a cult classic. There is a difference between a cult film and a cult classic, ya know. That is a very exclusive club to belong to and we are safely in it and in good standing with the membership! [laughs]
You mentioned the turmoil that surrounded the first movie and with the ‘Overnight’ documentary. I don’t want to focus on that to much because I feel that you got a raw deal and you have pretty much made your point clear about what went on in regards to that film. With that being said, what do you think the biggest misconception about yourself is?
Funny story for ya. One of my buddies was wearing a ‘Boondock’ shirt once and he went to the grocery store. He comes back and says “Dude, something happened! It’s funny, you have to listen to this!” This guy comes up to him in the store and says “Cool! Boondock Saints! That’s one of my favorite movies!” and my friend doesn’t say that he knows me at first and says “Hey, yeah! It’s a good flick, huh?” and they start talking and the guy starts following him around. ‘Boondock’ fans kinda have this weird instant bond, ya know? They will hang out and stuff, just because of the movie. The guy goes “Yeah, I heard that fuckin’ guy, Troy Duffy, pulled a Grizzly Adams and he is living in the woods because he lost his mind!” I am laughin’ my ass off from hearing this! [laughs] The idea that people would think that I can’t take a punch, ya know? And that I would take a lawn chair and go live off the fat of the land because [in an artsy voice] no one understands me as an artist! That is just kinda funny stuff. I also think it is a misconception that I am some kind of super harsh dude, ya know? Sometimes I can be blunt, but I rather appreciate it sometimes when people are blunt with me. We have become such a politically correct society that people are no longer actually telling you how they feel. They are trying to say it in a politically correct manner and at the end of the day you have no fuckin’ idea how they feel about you, how they feel about your film or how they feel about your work. Sometimes I tend to cut through that bullshit. However, I think the people that I do that with, I always kinda make a judgment call as to whether I am dealing with somebody that can handle that type of honesty. Ultimately, it has worked out for me.
I know that you cut down the film pretty significantly in length from the initial cut. Will we see a director’s cut of ‘Boondock II’ at some point?
Oh yeah! Our first cut was three hours and fifteen minutes, there are entire subplots and things that we didn’t even put in there. When ‘Boondock II’ says “The Extended Edition” that is exactly what it will mean. You will see entirely new scenes, you will see the scenes extended like a motherfucker, there will be some really cool new stuff in there.. Often, kids get ripped off with these “Unrated” or “Extended” versions and they feel like they got gypped. With ‘Boondock II’ they aren’t going to feel that way, I guarantee it!
So I assume we will see that in maybe six or seven months from now?
I don’t know when they are going to do it but I already cut the thing together. Our first extended viewing cut is 25 minutes longer than the film.
I know that you guys also have a prequel comic of sorts for ‘Boondock Saints II: All Saints Day’. What can you tell us about that project?
Yeah, that is a buddy of ours who is in the comic book business and we had always thought about doing a comic book. We are making a deal with him to do the comic book and I will have a lot to do with that. One of the reasons we did it is because fans were so interested in Il Duce’s past and that is why I addressed it in the film. They wanted to know why he became a killer, why they didn’t know that they were father and sons and what was going on with this guy. They were really interested so I responded directly to the fanbase’s inquiries and addressed it in the film and we are making a whole comic book series out of it. I think that it is just a cool idea, ya know? An Italian kid with polio and this brutal Irish guy whose father has been killed, indiscriminately killing mobsters, way back in 1950’s New York and planning out each gig to blame it on someone else, to me that type of storytelling is gold.
What are the chances for ‘Boondock Saints III’ and what can we as fans to do spread the word about the film and hopefully ensure that happens?
The odds are pretty good. I’d like to get a couple of films under my belt beforehand. I have some other things that I want to say. I have written four other scripts, other than ‘Boondock II’, in the that ten year downtime period. They are all very legitimate and different stories, at opposite ends of the spectrum. I’d like to get a few of those out, but ultimately there is hope for ‘Boondock III’ and I have some ideas percolating! As for how the fans can help, we have sort of arranged it that way. We are only coming out in 70 theaters at my behest! Believe me, that was a difficult thing to talk people into. I wanted this to be platformed so that the fans can take ownership in the film’s success, the way they did the first time around. Nobody tried to sell them ‘Boondock’, they found it on their own, spread the word on their own and made it successful on their own. They are the reason that the sequel was even made! Fans can take part this time by platforming the film into a wide release, which is what I hope that they do.
What can you tell us about ‘The Good King’?
It is a comedy, black as the starless night at the bottom of the ocean. It’s a period piece. A King and a Duke, who are complete recalcitant, alcoholic, womanizer, idiot savants who basically destroy the British Empire and then resurrect it and chaos ensues.
Is that definitely the next project you are tackling?
Hopefully. We will see if we can set it up.
Being a seasoned vet of the film industry, what is the best piece of advice that you would give to young filmmakers?
Make sure you have talent. If your mother and your friends like your stuff, that doesn’t mean shit. You have to have people who you don’t know coming up to you and saying “That was awesome!” Then get your ass to New York or Los Angeles, where the business is. Unfortunately, from that point there is no pathway for you to follow to ensure that you have a good chance at success. You have to work really hard and find some way into it, man. You have to find the way. Every filmmaker that is coming up and having success right now has a different story, so there is no rule book for you to follow. You just have to take the ultimate risk and put your money where you mouth is, but make sure you have talent beforehand.
Any last words of the critics and for the fans?
For the critics, if you liked it, glad to have you onboard and if you didn’t, go fuck yourself! [laughs] For the fans, ‘Boondock II’ is like taking a Playboy Playmate to your Senior Prom and then banging her and her twin sister afterwards.
There’s nothing wrong with that! One last question for you before I let you go. I have a feeling I may know your answer to this but I have to ask. Who do ya got — Philly or New York in the World Series?
You’re kidding right? [laughs]
Well, I know you have huge fanbases in New York and Philly, so I thought you might have a tough choice to make!
I’m a Boston Red Sox fan! Anybody that fights “The Evil Empire” I am down with. Even Boston Red Sox fans just became Phillies fans!
Thanks for your time, Troy! The new film is amazing and we will be out here on the front lines spreading the word! I look forward to all that you have in store for us and I look forward to talking with you soon.
You too, man! You’re site kicks ass! Take it easy!
Billy Connolly is truly a jack of all trades. For well over three decades, this Scottish comedian, musician and actor as been winning over fans worldwide with his solid bodies of work and undeniable charm. Connolly may best known to American audiences from his role on the comedy series “Head of The Class” or as a brilliant stand-up comic that never fails to bring down the house, but to a whole new generation of fans, Billy Connolly is the mysterious and very lethal patriarch of the “Boondock Saints.” Directed by Troy Duffy, Connolly played opposite of Sean Patrick Flanery and Norman Reedus as the head of the McManus clan in a unique film that would go on to become one of the biggest cult sensations in movie history. Over a decade later, he finds himself reprising the role of “Il Duce” in one of the most highly anticipated sequels of all-time. Jason Price of Icon Vs. Icon recently caught up with Connolly as he and the rest of the cast traveled the country to give fans their first glimpse of the film. In the interview we discuss his past, the challenges of playing a hard as nails killer, his upcoming projects and the triumphant return of The Boondock Saints.
*Warning: This interview may contain possible spoilers!
What got you started on your journey in the entertainment industry?
Well, it is kind of strange. I have always liked American country music. Hank Williams and stuff like that. I wanted to play it and I didn’t know anyone that did. The the whole folk music thing started. I saw Pete Seeger playing the banjo on television, so I went out and I got myself one. I got into that whole circuit of folk music, banjos, country music, bluegrass and old-timey music. One thing led to another and eventually I was taking a lot of time between songs and describing songs in a funny way and I became a comedian, almost be accident.
How did you first get involved with Troy Duffy and the original Boondock Saints film?
My agent sent me the script and asked me if I would go and talk to this “Troy Duffy guy”. I couldn’t believe the script! With people dyin’ all over the place. I didn’t know what part he wanted me to play, so I met him in a bar in Los Angeles. He was there with his brother and they were a wild bunch, ya know, and I don’t drink. I used to drink, so I understand the game. This nutcase, this mad director, put his hands on my shoulders and said “I want ya to do this!” He had one arm over my shoulder and with his other, he was waving his index finger telling me all the great names that he wanted to play this part but he was going to give it to me. I was completely sold on it. I loved his enthusiasm, ya know! I love his enthusiasm to this day!
When you guys were working on the first film, did you have any idea that the film would develop into the cult phenomenon that it has?
I think it became quite apparent when we were making it that it was something really special. It looked special. Even the equipment that we were all using, black coats and all that with the guns and the boys and the way they went about saying prayers before they killed people. Everybody knew that it was something special and a bit different and that it was going to be noticed. I was always really enthusiastic about it. I had great faith in it.
I know you don’t want to give to much away but what can you tell us about your role in Boondock Saints II?
My role is very similar to the original film but their is much, much more of a storyline for me this time around. They go over my history. They go over the history of why I am like I am and what got me to that point. Before that, I was quite glad to look as if I came from Hell or someplace like that, ya know! [laughs] A killer that just killed because he didn’t mind doing it, ya know?! He was the ultimate judge, that just came and cut you down. So, I was quite happy with that but Troy has written me a whole backstory and background. That is where the Peter Fonda role comes in, ya know? What was it like working alongside Peter Fonda?
Oh, it was a joy! An absolute joy, what a nice man! He has an extraordinary background but he doesn’t wear it like costume jewelry. He just goes to work like anybody else. He is a very generous performer, very generous indeed, ya know, with his time and space. If he sees a bit that he think can be improved, he will bring it up in front of everybody and say something like “Why doesn’t Billy come in from this side?”. When you are a big star, people tend to like you a bit, but he doesn’t give a shit about that. He’ll just walk straight in front of me and confront me and that is the way we did it. I found him to be a very generous performer.
Did you do any special preparation for the role?
Oh I grew a beard! [laughs] You must always grow a beard, not wear a stick on one, they are hellish! The glue just drives you insane through the day. They keep coming off and you have to have them re-stuck and they feel like shit. It’s like walking around with honey on your face.
I know that it was important for all of you to bring the film to the fans first. You have been taking the film around to several major cities to show it off to the them. What has that experience been like for you?
We have been interacting with the fans at the premieres but we have also been going to colleges, like Boston College and Emerson college, during the day. We were interviewed by the students and had a big audience. It was lovely! They were all nuts about the original and they were dying to see the new one. The film got a standing ovation in Boston!
That is exciting to hear, speaking as a fan, I know I am really excited to see it.
Yeah, it is a wee bit, slightly more humorous. It takes itself slightly less seriously. I am still death on wheels!
Well it is good to hear that you haven’t lost your touch!
Ohhhhhh noooo! [laughs] I am still deadly!
I know that over the years, Troy Duffy has gotten a bad rap in a lot of circles, which isn’t necessarily fair. Having worked with him, twice now, I wanted to see what you think the biggest misconception about him is?
The biggest misconception about Troy is that he takes himself too seriously. He does take himself seriously, as I think everyone should to a degree, but he doesn’t take himself to seriously. He is a good lad and loves a joke. I think Troy answered all the critics when everybody came back to work again. He has the exact crew and Peter Fonda. If he was a bad guy, none of us would have returned. Everybody is back and we are all busy guys, it isn’t like we have nothing else to do! Looking back on your experiences with making both films. What stands out as your fondest memory?
I just want to kill people. [laughs] It is a great feeling getting to do that, ya know! Putting on your six 9MM pistols and going around killing assholes all day. It’s a joy!
I know that actors sometimes tend to take a little piece of the film with them. Did you hang onto anything from the film as a souvenir?
We all kept our rosaries. Troy made them.
Which do you prefer, performing stand-up comedy or acting?
I don’t prefer one over the other but often one will step in when one is getting to be to much, ya know? When you are getting a wee bit feed up on the road, it is great to step into a movie and do that. Likewise when you are getting bored in the film world, it is lovely to be able to step out and be a comedian again. I have the luxury of doing both, which is just a blessing to say the least, at my advanced stage in life.
What do you attribute the longevity of your career to?
Just consistency, I think. I think that is the answer to everything, to remain consistent and take it seriously all the time. Don’t coast. In comedy, you are under such pressure from all of the other guys, that takes care of itself. In drama and film, you have to keep trying your best and don’t just settle for the middle of the road all the time. I think that is what kills people. They settle for less, ya know? They go for big money at the time but mediocre material and it just kills them.
Having been in the game as long as you have, have you noticed a big change in your audiences?
I can’t see any change in them at all, they are still the same to me, but I think they have become very educated by comedy especially. I used to be the wildest guy on the block, ya know? Now I am not. A lot of things that used to be sort of wild and dangerous are considered sort of novel now. Comedy constantly astounds me, especially television comedy. British television comedy has gotten amazingly good. The standard for the written stuff has gotten very, very high. Like the show ‘Little Britain’ and ‘The League of Gentlemen’ have taken it to another place altogether. I think the standard all around is immensely high. I was lucky to get a start when I did, ya know! Looking back on your career, is there something that you single out as your defining moment?
Yeah, I did the Michael Parkinson Show in England, which is the equivalent of doing Johnny Carson in America. Before I knew it, I was famous. I was was quite big before that in concert halls, but I was quite obscure to the general public. I did the Michael Parkinson Show in London, I lived in Scotland at the time, and on the way home I was at the London Airport and a Chinese guy asked me for my autograph. I remember thinking to myself “Holy shit, I’m famous!” We got off the plane in Glasgow and the people in the airport all applauded because they had seen the show the night before.
Very cool! Can we expect to see you hit the stage here in the United States anytime soon?
Yeah. I am doing London in January and right after that I will be coming to America.
What other projects are on the horizon for you?
I did ‘Gulliver’s Travels’ with Jack Black. I am not exactly sure when that is coming out, I think around Christmas sometime.
What is the best piece of advice that someone has given you along the way in your career, and what is the best advice that you have for anyone who would like to get involved in the entertainment industry?
Don’t forget how exciting it was when you first started. If you think about it properly, that feeling will stay. Don’t take it for granted and aim as high as you did when you started and stay there! That’s all! Is there anything else that you would like to say to the Boondock Saints fans?
I love ya! You are awesome!
Any chance for a Boondock Saints III in the future?
Oh, they are already talking about that! I’m dead so I don’t care! [laughs]
Well ya know, if Troy can bring Rocco back, he could always bring Il Duce back too!
That’s what I was telling him last night! That Rocco and I should come back in the third one! We can come back, all as ghosts!
Kinda like they did in Star Wars: Return of The Jedi!
Yeaaaah! [laughs]
Well thanks for your time Billy, we will be spreading the word about the film and look forward to catching you on stage soon!
Thank you very much! It’s been nice talkin’ to ya, man!
Sony Pictures Home Entertainment has revealed that it will release The Boondock Saints II: All Saints Day on DVD and Blu-ray on March 9, 2010. The Apparation film release has made $10 million at the domestic box office to date.
‘Boondock Saints’ 
I realize that you always had faith in the film, but did you have any idea that ‘Boondock Saints’ would develop into the cult phenomenon that it has?
Funny story for ya. One of my buddies was wearing a ‘Boondock’ shirt once and he went to the grocery store. He comes back and says “Dude, something happened! It’s funny, you have to listen to this!” This guy comes up to him in the store and says “Cool! Boondock Saints! That’s one of my favorite movies!” and my friend doesn’t say that he knows me at first and says “Hey, yeah! It’s a good flick, huh?” and they start talking and the guy starts following him around. ‘Boondock’ fans kinda have this weird instant bond, ya know? They will hang out and stuff, just because of the movie. The guy goes “Yeah, I heard that fuckin’ guy, Troy Duffy, pulled a Grizzly Adams and he is living in the woods because he lost his mind!” I am laughin’ my ass off from hearing this! [laughs] The idea that people would think that I can’t take a punch, ya know? And that I would take a lawn chair and go live off the fat of the land because [in an artsy voice] no one understands me as an artist! That is just kinda funny stuff. I also think it is a misconception that I am some kind of super harsh dude, ya know? Sometimes I can be blunt, but I rather appreciate it sometimes when people are blunt with me. We have become such a politically correct society that people are no longer actually telling you how they feel. They are trying to say it in a politically correct manner and at the end of the day you have no fuckin’ idea how they feel about you, how they feel about your film or how they feel about your work. Sometimes I tend to cut through that bullshit. However, I think the people that I do that with, I always kinda make a judgment call as to whether I am dealing with somebody that can handle that type of honesty. Ultimately, it has worked out for me.
Yeah, that is a buddy of ours who is in the comic book business and we had always thought about doing a comic book. We are making a deal with him to do the comic book and I will have a lot to do with that. One of the reasons we did it is because fans were so interested in Il Duce’s past and that is why I addressed it in the film. They wanted to know why he became a killer, why they didn’t know that they were father and sons and what was going on with this guy. They were really interested so I responded directly to the fanbase’s inquiries and addressed it in the film and we are making a whole comic book series out of it. I think that it is just a cool idea, ya know? An Italian kid with polio and this brutal Irish guy whose father has been killed, indiscriminately killing mobsters, way back in 1950’s New York and planning out each gig to blame it on someone else, to me that type of storytelling is gold.
Any last words of the critics and for the fans?
What was it like working alongside Peter Fonda?
Looking back on your experiences with making both films. What stands out as your fondest memory?
Is there anything else that you would like to say to the Boondock Saints fans?
