Review of Mallrats (1995) by Jani H — 25 Jun 2009

"I love the smell of commerce in the morning.".

'Mallrats' is a film I love dearly. It reminds me of my teenaged life, hanging around with my friends at the mall, reading comics and playing videogames. And of course not dating because what hot chick would want a geek like that? Life was easy, no troubles. Didn't even have to read to any exams cause I'm so fuckin' talented... NOT! (Seen 'Borat' way to many times...).

Kevin Smith, one of my favourite writers and directors, is one exceptional talent when it comes to movies and comic books. I'm sure that most of you know and have seen at least some of his movies. But he has also written 'Spider-Man', 'Daredevil' and 'Batman' comics. And of course the 'Superman Lives' script that every fan should read...

Kevin Smith's love for comics comes up frequently in 'Mallrats'. Even Stan Lee, the man behind Marvel comics, does a cameo in the movie. And this time Stan Lee ain't just a weird guy doing something something (yes, I wrote that twice on purpose) but playing with himself.. sorry, playing himself.

'Mallrats' and 'Clerks' are Kevin Smith's first two features. The latter one is a genuine classic but this movie ain't bad at all. 'Mallrats' features Jason Lee, a man I just can't hate. He ain't a proper comedian nor an educated actor but there's something I like about him. And it started with this film. Jason Lee is one of the biggest reasons why 'Mallrats' should be seen. Sometimes it's hard to understand that a laid-back skater turned actor would become my favourite Karma driven guy on the magical box they call... TW? TV is it?

'Mallrats' is full of good dialogue and humor. This is one of the movies that actually sounds almost too realistic. Have had similar discussions with my friends several times. Just haven't participated in any dating shows at the mall...

But don't get me wrong, 'Mallrats' isn't totally flawless. There are some loose scenes that should have been taken away, for example the "boat in the painting scene". Didn't work for me and some Jay and Silent Bob scenes went a bit over the top. Maybe there wasn't enough good material for a full length feature?

'Mallrats' is and will forever be one of my favourite Kevin Smith movies. Although it has Shannon Doherty in it, the pain of it all is reset by such movie idols like the before mentioned Jay and Silent Bob. Jason Mewes is soooo good. In fact, I'd like to hang at the mall with him, be his Silent Bob. Or not, but do understand that 'Mallrats' is the perfect movie for all movie, comic book and videogame fans. Please do check it out. Just for the fun of it.

"There is something out there that can help us ease our simultanious double loss.

- What? Ritual suicide?

No, you idiot, the fucking mall!".