Shooting Clerks (2016)

Shooting Clerks Poster

The biopic of how Kevin Smith bankrolled his $27,000 first film with maxed-out credit cards and became the darling of the Sundance Film Festival when Clerks debuted there in 1994.

Film Overview
"Shooting Clerks" is a 2016 biographical funny film directed by Christopher Downie. The motion picture is a cinematic look into the creation of filmmaker Kevin Smith's very first indie movie classic, "Clerks". It provides an interesting behind-the-scenes viewpoint while representing the struggles, victories, and humorous anecdotes that encompassed the production procedure.

Plot Summary
"Shooting Clerks" highlights the life of Kevin Smith, played by Brian O'Halloran. The film begins by introducing Smith's mundane life as a convenience store clerk in New Jersey. Nevertheless, Smith isn't simply a routine retail worker however a visionary with a passion for filmmaking who decides to shoot a low-budget film in the very store that he works.

The audience is taken through his journey - from writing the script, gathering a group of good friends to star in the movie, to the battles of instant recording hiccups driven by a restricted budget and absence of expert experience. Packed with various amusing circumstances, the biopic humorously portrays the production stage of "Clerks", showcasing the incredible friendship and strength which resulted in the development of a classic indie movie.

Efficiency and Presentation
"Shooting Clerks" boasts remarkable efficiencies, particularly by the main lead, Brian O'Halloran, who extremely catches Smith's personality and enthusiasm for filmmaking. The movie is likewise enhanced by the real Kevin Smith and Jason Mewes, incorporated skillfully into the story, additional boosting its authenticity.

The instructions by Christopher Downie successfully represents the '90s period, with an appealing mix of black and white scenes mirroring the initial "Clerks" and colored shots capturing the off-camera circumstances. The motion picture's script is woven with creative humor that stabilizes the obstacles faced throughout production, making it an amusing expect the audience.

Reception and Conclusion
"Shooting Clerks" premiered at Orlando Film Festival in 2016 and garnered much applause for its special story of Kevin Smith's indie filmmaking journey. Although it's a biopic, the film offers a fine mix of comedy and fond memories, which attracts audiences, particularly fans of the original "Clerks".

In spite of its indie status, the movie has an undoubtedly big heart and beauty that testifies to the power of enthusiasm and willpower in achieving one's dreams. It's not simply the true story of Kevin Smith's own landmark movie; it's likewise a motivating ode to all the dreamers and believers in the movie industry. In conclusion, "Shooting Clerks" is an amusing, well-crafted biopic that successfully captures the initial spirit of "Clerks" and the profound impact it left on independent movie theater.

Top Cast

  • Kevin Smith (small)
    Kevin Smith
    Narrator / Larkin Eve
  • Jason Mewes (small)
    Jason Mewes
    Wes Jameson
  • Brian O'Halloran (small)
    Brian O'Halloran
    Elis Heimermann
  • Marilyn Ghigliotti (small)
    Marilyn Ghigliotti
    Ali Thomlyn
  • Matthew Postlethwaite
    Walt Flanagan
  • Scott Schiaffo (small)
    Scott Schiaffo
    Don Smith
  • Ernest O'Donnell
    Sergeant Svenning
  • Christopher Downie
    Mr. Connolly / Shemp Kevin
  • Chris Bain
    Jason Mewes / Jay
  • Jake Richardson (small)
    Jake Richardson
    Party Marty
  • Harry Partridge (small)
    Harry Partridge
    Usher (voice)