Cult movies, are ones that inspire a following, and show a particular culture in a way. Many independent movies are know only after a cult following has been born for it, such as "The Big Labowski", and "The Rocky Horror Picture Show." Cult movies create a love for something, and that love for me, is Kevin Smith. The brilliance that is Kevin Smith is unexplainable, you either get it or you don't. I can go on and on about his amazing writing, and the way he just tells it like he wants to, and how its great to see how loyal he is to his cast, but I had to pick an independent film for the week and his first film "Clerks" is the one that got the young filmmaker noticed, and moved him out of the independent world. Though "Dogma" is my favorite of his flicks, you get hooked on the gritty, realness of "Clerks."
A movie driven by its writing, "Clerks" is a day in the life of Dante, a quick stop employee. "I'm not supposed to be here today" is the attitude he has as his day goes down a crazy path. One of the things about this flick that is so great is it's dialogue. It is a movie to listen to, small jokes, everyday banter, and some serious debates keep the film moving. If you have ever had a mundane job you can relate to this film. The film is shot in black and white, so don't let that turn you off, the effect it gives adds to the realistic style of the movie, think of it as your watching it from the security camera. This film also offers great characters and the start of the "New Jersey Chronicles" of films. If you have ever seen other Kevin Smith films there are inside jokes that all start with "Clerks." One of my favorite.. "she died mid back stroke", plus this is the birth place of Jay and Silent Bob.
The only thing about clerks that can be annoying is the camera angles. Smith shoots straight on most of the time, but hey it is his first film and it does actually work for him.
The performance to watch in this film is Jeff Anderson as Randal, the video store clerk. Randal is constantly locking up the video store to come and bug Dante, he is really what gets the film going. Anderson makes it seem effortless to show a natural way with the dialogue, his sarcastic humor and quick wit shines through his performance. He is an actor who does not abuse the writing but enhances it. He is definitely a scene stealer.
So if you haven't seen "Clerks" where have you been, go and see it and wile your at it check out the other films in the "New Jersey Chronicles" you'll be happy you did. I give this film a 8 out of 10!
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