The speaker is expressing that despite their belief in the script's humor and quality, they recognize that the film "Super Troopers" was unlikely to be a profitable venture due to its unconventional cast consisting primarily of unknown actors. This statement highlights the inherent risk associated with betting on projects featuring newcomers rather than established stars.
On a deeper level, this quote underscores the complexity of balancing artistic vision with commercial viability in the entertainment industry. It reflects the tension between creators' passion for their work and the economic realities they must navigate to see their projects succeed. The phrase also serves as a cautionary note about underestimating market dynamics and audience expectations when investing in or promoting an unconventional project. Moreover, it illustrates the importance of understanding the business side of filmmaking, where factors like star power significantly influence financial outcomes.
The quote is attributed to Jay Chandrasekhar, one of the directors and stars of "Super Troopers." He is part of the comedy troupe Broken Lizard, which produced this film. Known for his work in independent cinema, Chandrasekhar has gained recognition through projects that often feature offbeat humor and ensemble casts comprising largely unknown actors. Despite initial doubts about its commercial prospects, "Super Troopers" ended up resonating with audiences and developed a cult following over time.