‘Mallrats Killed My Career’: Kevin Smith Looks Back On The Highs And Lows After Clerks

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As a devoted admirer of Kevin Smith‘s work, I can truly appreciate the rollercoaster ride his career has taken over the years. His journey, marked by both triumphs and tribulations, serves as an inspiring testament to perseverance and resilience in the face of adversity.

Kevin Smith, known for his witty and relatable films, has reflected on his career’s rollercoaster start. The filmmaker shared how his debut movie, Clerks, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in 1994, opened doors for him in Hollywood.

Smith stated in the documentary ‘Chasing Chasing Amy’, “My career started as a clerk.” This low-cost, black-and-white movie about two convenience store workers resonated with both viewers and critics, establishing him as a notable figure in independent films.

Clerks’ success opened up a profitable chance for a higher-budget sequel. Yet, as Smith acknowledges, the following stages of his career didn’t progress as smoothly.

1995 saw the debut of Smith’s second film, titled “Mallrats,” a comedy centered around a shopping mall. Unlike his previous work “Clerks” that achieved indie success, “Mallrats” faced difficulties at the box office and garnered mixed responses from critics. In hindsight, Smith himself admitted, “The release of Mallrats essentially marked the end of my career.

The movie showcased a gifted ensemble, boasting Jason Lee, Ben Affleck, and Shannen Doherty; however, it fell short of the response that Smith anticipated. Yet, in retrospect, Mallrats has garnered a devoted fan base, earning cult status.

The box-office disappointment left Smith questioning his future in the industry. “You got me needing to do something to stay in this business, or else we were out,” he recalled.

1997 saw Kevin Smith make a comeback with “Chasing Amy,” his third movie production. This romantic comedy-drama, featuring Joey Lauren Adams and Ben Affleck, turned out to be a surprise success and rekindled interest in Smith within the Hollywood industry. The film’s compelling storyline and excellent acting performances garnered praise from critics, demonstrating that Smith was not just a flash in the pan.

Smith attributed part of the film’s success to Joey (Adams), whom he was dating during production. He stated, “Without Joey, ‘Chasing Amy’ would have been a hollow shell, like an unrealized idea.” The movie provided Smith with an opportunity to explore personal themes and create a story that resonated deeply with viewers.

Regardless of its initial setback, Mallrats has seen a surge in appreciation over time, amassing a dedicated fanbase. In response to this revival, Smith often expresses affection for the movie and its lasting impact.

2020, amidst the COVID-19 lockdown, Smith disclosed that he had written the script for a sequel called Twilight of the Mallrats. “Partly due to the quarantine, I’ve completed a humorous first draft of Twilight of the Mallrats,” was his Instagram post.

In simpler terms, Smith characterized the sequel as “foolishly emotional and charming” by hinting at the reappearance of favorite figures such as Brodie Bruce, Rene, Jay, and Silent Bob. He penned down that the narrative, spanning 98 pages, travels at an unstoppable pace, akin to a speeding bullet train without brakes!

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2024-11-08 16:23