James Merendino, the writer and director behind the 1998 cult classic SLC Punk, has officially launched a crowdfunding campaign to bring his newest project, ONLY POSERS DIE: WHY SLC PUNK LIVES ON, to life. The upcoming documentary will explore the enduring legacy of SLC Punk, why it remains a cultural touchstone more than 25 years later, and the passionate fan community that continues to keep its spirit alive.
“I’m interested in how this little movie became a cult film,” says Merendino. “I want to talk to the fans.”
First released in 1998, SLC Punk followed the anarchic adventures of Stevo (Matthew Lillard) and Heroin Bob (Michael A. Goorjian) as they navigated the punk scene and cultural clashes of early-1980s Salt Lake City. Initially a small indie film, it became a generational anthem for outsiders, rebels, and anyone who never quite fit in. In 2016, Merendino returned to the world with Punk’s Dead: SLC Punk 2, expanding the story to a new generation.
The Documentary
ONLY POSERS DIE will blend interviews with cast, crew, cultural critics, and most importantly fans. This is not just a making-of; it’s an exploration of why the film continues to resonate decades later, the power of punk ethos, and the role 1990s cult movies played in shaping subcultural identity. The project will also highlight other iconic ’90s cult films, from Clerks to Donnie Darko, placing SLC Punk within a wider cultural conversation.
Production Plans
Merendino and producer Sev will kick off production with a 10-day shoot in Utah this month, filming:
- Interviews with the real-life Salt Lake punks who inspired characters in the film
- Conversations with Merendino’s friends and family about his personal connection to the story
- A SLC Punk screening and live Q&A with James on August 17 at Proper Brewing Co (Salt Lake City, UT).
- A Meet & Greet + SLC Punk Trivia Night on August 19 at Proper Brewing Co (Salt Lake City, UT).
- Fan interviews, “man on the street” segments, and behind-the-scenes coverage
Additional shoots are planned in Los Angeles, New York City, and other cities over the next two years.
Crowdfunding & Perks
The campaign aims to raise $60,000, with $11,985 already pledged from 156 backers. Supporters can choose from a range of perks, including:
- Name in the film credits ($10)
- Digital copy of the movie ($20)
- Photo or tattoo featured in the film ($50)
- Signed SLC Punk 2 DVD ($60)
- Submit a personal video for inclusion ($100)
- Music placement in the documentary ($500)
- Sponsorship credits for businesses ($500–$5,000)
- Concert performance filming for inclusion ($20,000)
Higher-tier backers can receive Associate Producer or Opening Credit Sponsor recognition.
Why It Matters
ONLY POSERS DIE is not just a film about a film, it’s a love letter to the punk community and a preservation of counterculture history. Merendino’s goal is to capture not just the legacy of SLC Punk, but also the fan stories, music, and ethos that have kept it alive. Every supporter becomes part of that history.
Upcoming Events at Proper Brewing Co. – Salt Lake City
- Sunday, August 17, 7 PM – SLC Punk Q&A with James Merendino + Screening (8 PM)
- Tuesday, August 19, 5:30 PM – Meet & Greet + SLC Punk Trivia (7:30 PM)
Join the Movement
Support the film, submit your story, and help document why SLC Punk still matters.
Crowdfunding link: https://crowdfundr.com/42X7Qa
Thoughts Words Action 