Kevin Smith admitted he expected criticism for his metaphysical comedy about murderous angels. He expected it, however, to come from long-time fans of his stoner, secular farces. Instead, it was the religious right that screamed, leaving the film to be dropped by one distributor, and angrily protested when it finally reached theaters. Once, a deadpan Smith even joined the picket line, but the reaction was no joke; the young director also received several death threats.