Bob Odenkirk recently spoke about his involvement in the remake of Tommy Wiseau’s infamous cult film, The Room, explaining why this eagerly anticipated project remains unreleased. Originally created in 2003, The Room centers on a melodramatic love triangle featuring Johnny, played by Wiseau himself, his unfaithful fiancée Lisa, and best friend Mark. Despite its many flaws, the original movie has earned a dedicated fanbase over the years. In 2023, Odenkirk, best known for his role in Better Call Saul, stepped into the lead role of Johnny for a remake titled The Room Returns!, which was produced for charity.
The remake was directed and produced by Brando Crawford through his company Acting for a Cause, with all proceeds intended to support the HIV/AIDS research charity, amfAR. Though its production was completed and the movie entered post-production, only a few clips have surfaced online, and a full release has not occurred. This lack of progress has left the project shrouded in uncertainty, causing it to fade into what some fans now refer to as lost media.
Insights from Bob Odenkirk on Delays and Intentions
While promoting his film Nobody 2 in August, Odenkirk provided insights during an exclusive interview with ScreenRant about the remake’s troubled release. He emphasized the respectful approach he took in the project, explaining,
I did not do it to make fun of it,
highlighting his desire to sincerely embody the character rather than mock the source material. Odenkirk further reflected on the film’s stalled status and possible reasons behind it.
Bob Odenkirk: I don’t know what happened. I think that Tommy won’t allow it. First of all, I don’t know what he thinks of it. I did not do it to make fun of it. In fact, the opposite. I did it to see if I could make it work with me in the role – like, really honestly, doing it as well as I could do it. I tried to treat the words with respect, and so I thought that would be the most interesting thing I could do. And also, we did it for charity, so I don’t know why he won’t let it be released. But I think it’s a legal thing. —Bob Odenkirk
Odenkirk also addressed Wiseau’s long-standing protective stance toward his creation, noting his awareness that Wiseau dislikes being the subject of ridicule. However, he maintained that his portrayal refrains from mockery and aims for authenticity instead.
Bob Odenkirk: You can see a scene from it on YouTube, and you’ll see I’m not making fun of it. I’m trying to do it really well. A lot of times, the characters in the room change their point of view, or they change what they’re thinking about, and I’ll put a thought moment in there that my train of thought changes. I just try to make it legit; I try to land it. —Bob Odenkirk
He also admitted he hasn’t yet seen the full film beyond a single scene made publicly available and expressed openness about his performance.
Bob Odenkirk: Yeah, I would love for people to see. I mean, I’d love to see it! I’ve only seen that one scene that’s on YouTube. And I tried, so I’m not embarrassed by it. And again, it’s for charity, the whole thing. So, Tommy should let us see it… —Bob Odenkirk
Legal and Creative Hurdles Blocking the Remake’s Release
The primary obstacle for The Room remake’s public release appears to stem from issues involving Tommy Wiseau himself. According to Odenkirk, Wiseau has not given permission to release the film, and this is likely tied to legal complications. Wiseau has a history of vigorously protecting his original work, having previously filed lawsuits against unauthorized projects such as a 2016 Canadian documentary about The Room.
This protective attitude may explain why the remake, despite being completed and promoted, has not reached audiences, leaving even Odenkirk in the dark regarding the full version. Such circumstances cast a shadow of confusion and frustration over the project’s status. Throughout these difficulties, Odenkirk has maintained that his intent was genuine and respectful, jokingly noting, “We’re all Tommy Wiseau!” in the sense that everyone carries imperfect stories and works to bring them to life.
Bob Odenkirk: The way I see it, we’re all Tommy Wiseau! We go out with our stories. They maybe have some holes in them; they’re not perfect ever, really. There’s almost no movie that you could say is really perfect, I don’t care what anyone says. And then you have to work the moments and try to sell them as an actor. It’s a continuum of The Room to Chinatown. —Bob Odenkirk
Why Fans Are Eager to See Odenkirk’s Interpretation
The fact that Bob Odenkirk has not seen the finished remake, despite playing Johnny, adds to the puzzling circumstances surrounding this project. Reportedly filmed in just one day in 2023, the movie’s silence since its initial announcement has cast doubts on whether the remake ever reached a truly complete form. Regardless, the commitment to this production offers a unique perspective on a cult favorite.
Unlike many remakes that aim to mock or parody the originals, Odenkirk’s approach was one of artistic challenge and reverence. His goal was to treat the material seriously and explore the emotional depths of the characters rather than reduce the story to a joke. This sincerity makes the unreleased film especially intriguing for fans of The Room and Odenkirk alike, as it promises a refreshing reinterpretation rather than a mere celebrity stunt.
Charitable Aspect Adds Another Layer of Meaning
The Room Returns! was created entirely to benefit a charitable cause, with all profits directed to amfAR, an organization dedicated to HIV/AIDS research. This generous intent underscores the remake’s purpose beyond entertainment or profit. By supporting a vital cause, the project hoped to give back while offering a fresh take on a beloved yet flawed film.
Odenkirk himself appears proud of this charitable connection, expressing disappointment that viewers have not been able to enjoy the film. He remains hopeful that Wiseau will eventually allow the remake to see a wider audience, acknowledging the goodwill behind the endeavor.
Looking Ahead: The Future of The Room Remake
For now, the status of Bob Odenkirk’s The Room remake remains uncertain. The combination of legal issues and Wiseau’s reluctance to approve release has left fans waiting without clear answers. Odenkirk’s candid admission about the situation adds tension and urgency to the conversation, as many anticipate a resolution that will finally bring the film to light.
This remake has the potential to enrich the legacy of The Room by presenting the story through a lens of serious acting and creative respect. If released, it could reshape how audiences perceive this cult classic and provide charity with crucial funds in the process. Until then, The Room Returns! stands as an enigmatic chapter in the history of this unique cinematic phenomenon, watched over with guarded eyes by those closest to it.
Notable Cast Members Involved in The Room Remake
- Juliette Danielle, known for playing Lisa in the original film
- Robyn Paris, whose role in the remake has not been widely detailed
