Neil Patrick Harris, Kristen Bell and other stars are buying out Love, Simon screenings – for you

NEW YORK, NY - DECEMBER 11: Actor Neil Patrick Harris attends CNN Heroes Gala 2016 at the American Museum of Natural History on December 11, 2016 in New York City. 26362_011 (Photo by Jason Kempin/Getty Images for Turner)

Neil Patrick Harris, Kristen Bell and other celebrities have bought out their local screenings of Love, Simon so members of the public can go for free.

The coming-of-age coming out tale has received rave reviews since its release in the US last week – and has already made a profit of more than $6 million, according to Box Office Mojo.

And, it seems, the film has also entranced stars of TV and film across the country.

NEW YORK, NY - JANUARY 13:  Actor Neil Patrick Harris attends the Build series to discuss the Netflix drama 'Lemony Snicket's a Series Of Unfortunate Events' at Build Studio on January 13, 2017 in New York City.  (Photo by Mike Coppola/Getty Images)

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Harris said that when he and his husband David Burtka went to see the film on Thursday, it had a huge effect on the couple.

“I saw the movie Love, Simon last night and was utterly enchanted, moved to tears, and deeply proud of everyone who helped create it,” he wrote on Instagram.

“How I wish something this brave, powerful, and confident existed when I was struggling with my identity – but how super awesome that a new generation will get to lead by this example.

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“In being so simple, straightforward, and kind, @gberlanti has created something courageous, empowering and important. I encourage everyone to see this wonderful film,” he added.

But there was more to come.

Not long after his initial post, the 44-year-old actor wrote: “So my husband David (@dbelicious) and I enjoyed @lovesimonmovie so much, we wanted to pay it forward.

“Others are doing this, and I’m so on board. So we bought out a screening at a theatre in my hometown of Albuquerque, NM for this Sunday afternoon,” he continued.

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“It’s free, and a great chance to see this wonderful film. Hope you can make it!”


Others were indeed following suit across the country.

Kristen Bell announced that she was joining with the message: “Dear Minneapolis, Simon came out, so I’m buying out! Love, Kristen”.

Kristen Bell arrives for the 24th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards at the Shrine Exposition Center on January 21, 2018, in Los Angeles, California. / AFP PHOTO / Jean-Baptiste LACROIX        (Photo credit should read JEAN-BAPTISTE LACROIX/AFP/Getty Images)

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The star of The Good Place and Frozen added: “Love, Simon is a KNOCKOUT.

“There are so many important stories that don’t get made. I am so grateful this one did. ❤️

“I had absolutely nothing to do with the making of this movie—I just have a huge crush on it and I’d like to share the love. Minneapolis, please enjoy a screening of Love, Simon this Sunday on me. 🙂 Enjoy!”

(Instagram/kristenanniebell)

Greg Berlanti, who directed the film, got in on the heartwarming act – which was organised in conjunction with PFLAG – with his husband, footballer Robbie Rogers, who he married last year.

Berlanti wrote to his followers: “@robbierogers and I have been so emotionally affected to the reactions to @lovesimonmovie and to supporters hosting screenings that we have decided to buy out two theatres.

“We have partnered with local LGBTQ organizations in Jackson, MS and Louisville, KY. Our hope is that young LGBTQ people in these cities that might not have the opportunity to see Love Simon now will have the chance.

(Instagram/gberlanti)

“Thank you everyone for your support.”

YouTube star Joey Graceffa and actor Matt Bomer also bought out screenings at their hometown cinemas.