Two decades ago, “The Room” was written off as one of the worst films ever made. But co-star Greg Sestero has turned its strange legacy into a meaningful and enduring creative path. Later this month, he’ll return to Owensboro for a 10-year anniversary screening of the film, reconnecting with a community that’s become part of his journey.
Set for 7 p.m. on August 18 at Owensboro Community & Technical College’s Blandford Hall (4800 New Hartford Road), Sestero’s visit will include a screening, Q&A, meet and greet, and sneak peeks at Sestero’s latest projects — offering fans a glimpse at how far he’s come since his days as Mark in “The Room.”
“Owensboro is a town that really appreciates live events and theater, and it’s always been a good time,” Sestero said. “I made some great friends here, and it’s one of those places I’ve always wanted to come back to.”
Sestero’s first visit was tied to the release of “The Disaster Artist,” his memoir about the making of “The Room” and his complicated, real friendship with its eccentric creator, Tommy Wiseau. The book became a New York Times bestseller and was later the basis for a Golden Globe-winning film of the same title starring James Franco. But for Sestero, it was always about more than the movie’s cult status.
“When I wrote the book, I believed it could make a great film,” he said. “What meant the most was seeing it resonate with people who had never even seen ‘The Room.’ The story behind it became relatable. It was about ambition, failure, friendship, perseverance. James Franco hadn’t seen the movie when he read the book. Neither had Mike Flanagan, who later cast me in his Netflix series ‘The Haunting of Bly Manor.’ It opened doors I never expected.”
“The Room” didn’t get a warm welcome when it was released in 2003. Critics panned it, and audiences were baffled. But over time, something shifted. Fans began showing up in droves, quoting the awkward dialogue and cheering its earnest absurdity. What began as a cinematic oddity became a beloved experience.
“I never judged the film, because I knew what it took to make it,” Sestero said. “I was more interested in how people would respond. It took 3-5 years for that tide to turn, and people started to root for it. That’s what showed me how important it is to stick with your art, even when others don’t get it right away.”
Sestero has since produced, written, and starred in several independent films, including “Best F(r)iends” and “Miracle Valley” — the latter featuring a local Owensboro actor he met at a previous event. His latest project is a UFO abduction film titled “Forbidden Sky,” expected to release next year. He’ll be sharing trailers and sneak peeks of that film during his Owensboro appearance.
He’s also part of “The Room Returns,” a green screen-based tribute remake starring Bob Odenkirk as Johnny, Bella Heathcote as Lisa, and Sestero in a new role as the gun-wielding Chris-R.
“It’s more of a charity tribute,” Sestero said. “Not a studio film, but a sincere take on the story. I’m glad to be part of it.”
Through it all, he’s continued to speak to audiences around the country, often drawing not just “The Room” fans but aspiring artists, actors, and writers hungry for insight. His message is simple but grounded in lived experience.
“Don’t overthink things. Just get started,” he said. “If you’re busy, carve out 45 minutes a week and put some energy into your story, or your book, or whatever you want to make. Don’t judge your material. And if you’re stuck, write the worst version of it. That helps you stop judging and start creating.”
That same passion dates back to when he was 12 years old, inspired by “Home Alone” to write a sequel set in Disney World — complete with a role for himself. He even tracked down and sent the script to the film’s director, John Hughes.
“I think that was the beginning for me,” he said. “Something just clicked and made me want to keep telling stories.”
Now, he chooses his projects based on what he finds fun and worth the time.
“I follow stories I want to spend 2 or 3 years developing,” Sestero said. “If I’m intrigued by it, if I’m enjoying it, I believe the audience will feel that too.”
That energy is something he’s brought to Owensboro for a decade — connecting with fans, casting local talent, and even remembering his favorite restaurant in town.
“There’s a great vibe here,” he said. “Whether people have seen ‘The Room’ or not, I love getting to share my work with new audiences and check in with familiar faces. If we’ve met before, come say hi. If we haven’t, this screening might just change the way you view movies.”
