Wat-Not Staff
Celebrated filmmaker Kevin Smith, known for his unique storytelling and humour, recently revisited a pivotal chapter in his career: the release of Chasing Amy. In the new documentary Chasing Chasing Amy, Smith opens up about how the 1997 film breathed life back into his career.
Which nearly faltered after the commercial failure of Mallrats in 1995. According to Smith, Clerks launched his career, but Mallrats nearly ended it. “Clerks began my career; Mallrats killed my career,” Smith candidly states in the documentary.
Smith’s connection to Chasing Amy ran deeper than just a story he wanted to tell. His relationship with lead actress Joey Lauren Adams greatly influenced the film’s heart and tone. Smith acknowledges, “Chasing Amy without Joey would’ve been a soulless husk.”
Her role brought authenticity, especially in scenes exploring themes of love, sexuality, and acceptance. The movie, which starred Adams and Ben Affleck, was a critical success, despite its modest budget and unconventional storyline. Its positive reception not only boosted Smith’s career but also solidified his place in independent cinema.
The Unexpected Turn of Mallrats and Its Cult Status
Smith’s second film, Mallrats, didn’t achieve the immediate acclaim he hoped for, becoming a financial disappointment at the time. Released just a year after his breakthrough success with Clerks, it was perceived as a setback in his young career.
However, over the years, Mallrats has gained cult status, drawing a devoted fan base that appreciates its quirky humour and unique characters. Reflecting on this evolution, Smith expressed gratitude for the film’s eventual legacy.
The fan response to Mallrats prompted Smith to consider a sequel. During the early days of the COVID-19 lockdown, he wrote Twilight of the Mallrats, revisiting familiar characters like Brodie Bruce and reimagining their lives in a more modern context.
Smith shared his excitement for the project, calling it “silly, sentimental, and sweet,” with a script that “moves like a brakeless bullet train.” Twilight of the Mallrats promises a nostalgic yet fresh look at his beloved characters against the backdrop of a modernised “Apocalypse.”
Smith’s Legacy with Chasing Amy and Future Endeavours
After Chasing Amy, Smith went on to direct over a dozen films, including Clerks II and Clerks III, as well as his latest, The 4:30 Movie. These projects demonstrate his enduring passion for film, even amid industry challenges.
Chasing Chasing Amy, directed by Sav Rodgers, celebrates the enduring legacy of Chasing Amy, exploring its cultural impact and the controversies it sparked. Rodgers’ documentary captures the essence of a story that helped Smith find his voice—and his place in Hollywood.
Smith continues to shape his “Askewniverse” with unique, self-reflective humour and relatable stories. He’s no stranger to risk, and the success of Chasing Amy cemented his standing as a creator unafraid to explore bold, often personal narratives. As Smith looks back on his career and forward to new projects, his story is a testament to the resilience and the lasting power of independent cinema.
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