Kevin Smith has a decorated filmography ranging from store counter comedy, to nightmarish body horror and self-aware stoner outings. The New Jersey native famously self-funded his debut feature and also helped kickstart the career of Ben Affleck in the late 90’s. Since then he has rapidly expanded his media repertoire as an actor, standup comedian and early pioneer of the podcasting world. Indeed, Smith has become the iconic figure he once dreamed about while serving customers in that fateful Quick Stop. He even struck up an unlikely friendship with the legendary Stan Lee, giving him an extended cameo role in Mallrats long before the MCU was even a twinkle in Kevin Feige’s eye. Check out our Kevin Smith interview below.
After purchasing his childhood movie theatre in 2022, the former Atlantic Cinemas, Smith decided to use his treasured cinema as the backdrop for his latest film. Shot almost entirely within the hallowed walls of the newly christened Smodcastle Cinemas, The 4:30 Movie is an earnest, heartfelt story about adolescence, friendship and first love.
The film stars Austin Zajur as Brian David, a semi-fictionalised version of a teenage Smith, who embodies the spirit and optimism of the future director. Set in the summer of 1986, the film follows Brian and his friends as they spend the day sneaking into movies at their local cinema, before the 4:30 movie where Brian has invited the girl of his dreams to watch an R-rated film.
Related: The 4:30 Movie review
Set in the summer of 1986, the coming-of-age comedy follows three sixteen-year-old friends who spend their Saturdays sneaking into movies at the local multiplex. But when one of the guys also invites the girl of his dreams to see the latest comedy, each of the teens will learn something serious about life and love before the credits roll.
We had the fantastic opportunity to chat with the legendary Smith, where he dives into his journey as a filmmaker, and gives an exclusive on the status of his long gestated sequel to Tusk. Check out our Kevin Smith interview below!
