As a film enthusiast with roots deep in the East Coast soil, I can’t help but feel a warm nostalgia coursing through my veins when I hear about Kevin Smith’s latest offering, “The 4_30 Movie.” Growing up, I too was one of those kids who found themselves at the mercy of movie theater overseers like Manager Mike, scoffing and sneaking around corners to catch us in our youthful antics.
Movies help you understand life better, that’s for sure. And speaking of movies, have a look at Kevin Smith’s latest creation, “The 4:30 Movie,” now out in theaters! Despite the fact that you won’t see him on the big screen this time around, Smith is definitely not retiring from acting. In fact, there are plans for another “Jay & Silent Bob” film and hints of a “Clerks IV” in the future, with possibilities for a cameo by Silent Bob himself. Why not enjoy the ride?
Take a moment to savor the nostalgic charm from Smith’s video store-era mind, as it’s a deliberate and assured tribute to the ’80s, as well as to Smith’s childhood and hometown, which serve as the film’s backdrop. Interestingly, the real-life Smith actually owns the cinema where most of this movie was filmed. Isn’t that fascinating?
Despite the movie’s strong R-rating, it might surprise you that this could be one of Smith’s most family-friendly films yet. As long as the youngest viewers are old enough to appreciate some light-hearted, slightly suggestive humor, everyone can enjoy this film. Smith has produced more groundbreaking independent films in the past, but The 4:30 Movie demonstrates the impact of subtle storytelling too.
A Young Cast and a Simple Premise… (And Justin Long)
“Reminiscing about the thrill of sneaking into R-rated flicks? That’s exactly what ‘The 4:30 Movie’ is all about, capturing that nostalgic essence in its title alone. This film revolves around a gang of teenagers, one of whom is on a mission to win over the girl he adores and catch a forbidden movie together. Just as turning 21 means no more nervous moments with fake IDs at the local pub, so too does reaching an age where you can walk into a theater without a second glance from the ushers or ticket takers. But once the bouncers and cinema workers stop giving you a sideways glance, that spark of rebellion seems to fade away.”
Smith cleverly immerses himself in the vibrant days preceding maturity by launching his latest venture, which is based on the summer of ’86. He’s utilizing a fresh group of actors for the main characters, while experienced actors like Jason Biggs and Rosario Dawson are cast in amusing cameos.
Pay attention to Justin Long’s hilarious, standout scene featuring Smith in the movie theater, where they spontaneously discuss Rocky IV with young Brian David (Austin Zajur). This classic film reference dialogue played a significant role in launching Smith’s career, and scenes like this are what keep this small-but-mighty indie production going.
Kids with Nothing to Do but See the 4:30 Movie
The momentum ramps up significantly when shy, smitten Brian gathers his nerve to invite Melody (the captivating Siena Agudong) to watch a movie at the local cinema at 4:30. However, there’s a twist – it’s an R-rated film, so Brian and his boisterous friends, Belly (Reed Northrup) and Burny (Nicholas Cirillo from “Outer Banks”), devise a plan to sneak into the theater instead.
In simpler terms, we have to sneak around Manager Mike (played humorously by Ken Jeong), who constantly looks down on these three characters. This is set in a small-town Jersey institution, and as someone from the East Coast, I know that kids often find ways to get into mischief in places like movie theaters or shopping malls. It’s interesting to note that Smith once wrote and directed a movie called “Mallrats,” which makes me wonder if that might have been inspired by such experiences.
Great Fake Trailers, Weak Familiar Beats
In the style reminiscent of Robert Townsend’s Hollywood Shuffle and Quentin Tarantino & Robert Rodriguez’s Grindhouse, Smith incorporates his movie theater concept by crafting mock trailers that amuse Brian, Belly, and Burny prior to the main event. Don’t miss the hilarious sneak peek for Sister Sugar Walls
Indeed, it seems as though the storyline becomes repetitive (and the plot gets tangled) whenever Mike, the manager, kicks the boys out of the theater yet again (and again). The movie The 4:30 Movie follows a pattern that is all too familiar in coming-of-age tales, with the group of friends constantly arguing to the point where their friendships might crumble. However, what makes Smith’s films stand out is the genuine emotion that seeps through the humor, even when it’s a bit crude. This emotional depth manifests itself in the blossoming romance between Brian and Melody, which initially meets resistance from their friends but could potentially win them over by the end.
No matter where you’re from, you can’t help but root for the charming cast as the thrilling third act unfolds, with their performances by fresh, talented actors being particularly enjoyable. The character of Cirillo, with his witty remarks and unique accent, is already a delight to watch, while I’m excited to see what the future holds for Zajur, Northrup, and Agudong in their acting careers. From Saban Films, “The 4:30 Movie” will hit theaters on September 13, 2024.
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2024-09-12 23:36