Clerks 2

Directed by: Kevin Smith
Starring: Brian O'Halloran, Jeff Anderson, Rosario Dawson, Jason Mewes, Kevin Smith, Jennifer Schwalbach Smith
Running Time: 1h 37min

The latest Kevin Smith film is always cause for anticipation, because he always seems to have something interesting to say. Whether it's a comment on Catholicism, an anecdote about Tim Burton or Prince, or a comparison of the Star Wars trilogy vs. The Lord of the Rings, he has a funny, insightful take on a number of subjects.

Unfortunately, Clerks 2 has none of the insight, humour, or clever wit that Smith's previous works delighted us with. In fact, even his self-proclaimed "poo-poo jokes" miss the mark in this one. Perhaps it is his return to a dried-up comedic well, stocked with unprofessional actors and tired delivery and dialogue, that makes Clerks 2 seem so parched for pleasure.

The only actors worth watching aren't on screen enough, and when they are, Smith's film school dropout directing skills cramp them to the point where the audience is just aching to leave. Smith's previous work actually made me want to visit New Jersey, but I was hoping the whole town would burn down with the Quick Stop as this film plodded along. Anything to give it some action, drama, or the slightest bit of comedy.

About the only good thing in the film is Rosario Dawson, a spark of life and refreshing sweetness amongst a cast that pales in comparison. Even though Dawson's discovery as an actress is not unlike Smith's gang of goons, it's strikingly obvious that she has honed her craft throughout the past decade, whereas Smith and friends seem stuck in the early 90s. Granted, Smith and Mewes (Jay and Silent Bob) are always fun to watch, but they jumped the shark with their self titled film, and should be put to rest. Jason Lee provides a great cameo, proving that he still possesses the best delivery of Smith's dialogue. I can't wait until those two can hook up again and make us forget this film, Kevin Smith's WORST FILM EVER. Take that to your comic store, Silent Boob!

Post-edit: With this film slated for DVD release in November, i encourage you to skip this sequel, even as a rental, and opt for Smith's other sequel, "An Evening with Kevin Smith 2: Evening Harder". He's just so much better as a speaker and writer, instead of pretending to be a screenwriter and director.

Grade: D