1994 Rewind: Clerks

 


Films released in 1994 will turn 30 this year. Over the next few months, I'll be looking at some of the memorable films from that year, including some of my favorites. Today, I'm looking at a classic that kick-started a franchise for Kevin Smith.

Silent Bob: [His only line] You know, there's a million fine looking women in the world, dude. But they don't all bring you lasagna at work. Most of 'em just cheat on you.

Clerks
Starring: Brian O'Halloran, Jeff Anderson, Kevin Smith, and Jason Mewes
Director: Kevin Smith
About: He wasn't even supposed to be there that day! This was the first of Smith's films, and remains one of his best and most iconic. It also kicked off a franchise of films that include Jay (Mewes) and Silent Bob (Smith). Those characters, in fact, tie together this expanded universe, often featuring the same players in different roles. The films work to varying degrees, but there is something about this first film that speaks to the common working man. It was shot in black-and-white, on a shoestring budget, and features some classic characters played by O'Halloran and Anderson. The humor and the story probably isn't for everyone, but I enjoy it. And when Silent Bob finally speaks, it's worth your time to sit up and listen.

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