Guest Blogger: Ryan H1

Classic, memorable, genius, all of these words perfectly describe Kevin Smith’s crude comedy, Clerks. This film is about life behind the convenience counter, dealing with the idiots on the other side of the counter. Most would feel that this movie would be a boring idea that makes a bad movie. However, the cleverly laid crude humor and meaningless, in-depth conversations drive this movie. This movie starts at store opening time and follows the day of Dante Hicks and his friend, Randal. These two oddballs deal with the common problems of the working class. Stupid costumers, hypocrite trouble makers, and failing drug dealers are all in a day’s work.
Brian O’Halloran plays the character of Dante Hicks. Dante is a winey guy who lets life hold him down. Brian plays this role perfectly. He plays this element of Dante but also adds an element that is common is failing people. Dante tries to convince himself that he is better everyone else and all of his costumers. The counterbalance to Dante’s character is Randal, played by Jeff Anderson. Randal lives life to the fullest and believes he is above everyone else only because he doesn’t care about social status. Jeff plays this character really well. He has a perfect nonchalant attitude that portrays Dante’s beliefs to the letter. Both of these characters are similar in one key aspect, both only look forward to hockey and closing time. In a weird way, a life lesson can be learned from this simplicity. Do what you want, what makes you happy. It’s the only way to deal with crap life throws at you.
Roger Ebert reviewed this movie when it came out in 1994. He gave it ¾ stars on his rating scale. I personally agree with this rating. Clerks was a good movie but not the right movie for all audiences. Roger Ebert said that “there's a danger that the movie could reduce itself to a series of people standing around talking.” This statement is the exact fear that most movie goers have when analyzing this movie. However, Kevin Smith handled these moments with pure genius. He makes every conversation worth listening to and entertaining. This helps put this movie on a whole new level.
Personally, I love this movie. I feel it is a good movie for most people. However, you must have the proper sense of humor to truly enjoy this movie. You have to like crude language, mature topics, and moments that make you simply ask why. If you can tolerate, or enjoy, any of these things, you should definitely watch this movie.