"Clerks II" would make for an appropriate end to Smith's lackluster career. One could say he comes full circle, but full circle implies at least change, ups and downs, and development. Smith's circle looks more like a straight line. Despite his art-house success, he's gone about as far as a filmmaker as Dante and Randal have as employees. His movies stay consistently inert, confusing exposition for progression and adolescent vulgarity for humor. (He makes the Farrelly brothers look like the Marx brothers.)
In fact, the only differences between Smith's over-praised and underwhelming debut--impressive mainly for its ability to obtain national distribution--and this abhorrent sequel 12 years later are the color stock, an assumedly larger budget, and that inexperience can no longer be an excuse for the movie's few unconvincing stabs at drama and myriad failed, utterly base jokes. Sadly, the funniest part of "Clerks II" occurred at the screening itself, when critic Joel Siegel walked out, claiming it was the first time in 30 years he had done so. What, he didn't see "Chasing Amy"? Starring Brian O'Halloran, Jeff Anderson, Rosario Dawson, Kevin Smith and Jason Mewes. Directed and written by Kevin Smith. Produced by Scott Mosier. An MGM release. Comedy. Rated R for pervasive sexual and crude content including aberrant sexuality, strong language and some drug material. Running time: 98 min
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