Kevin Smith, renowned filmmaker and pop culture icon, has ventured into the movie theater business with his latest film The 4:30 Movie, a nostalgic tribute to small-town cinemas. This film comes as Smith grapples with the overwhelming influence of streaming platforms, where he fears being “one more goofy-ass tile to this never-ending wall” of content.
“It’s always been hard,” Smith said, addressing the struggles of filmmaking, “but it’s worth the fight. Whatever you make, it will be somebody’s favorite movie.”
The 4:30 Movie is a teen film set in the 1980s, following 16-year-old Brian (Austin Zajur) and his friends sneaking into movies during the summer of 1986. The film combines teenage rivalries, romance and mischief, capturing a simpler time before streaming dominated entertainment.
“The theater’s old charm gave us the perfect setting for a period piece,” Smith said, adding that his real-life acquisition of a hometown cinema inspired the film.
While The 4:30 Movie is a departure from Smith’s famed View Askewniverse, it includes familiar faces such as Jason Mewes, Brian O’Halloran and Jason Lee, alongside new talent like Nicholas Cirillo and Siena Agudong.
The film is playing in select theaters, with Smith ensuring that his Smodcastle Cinemas will continue to screen it every Sunday at 4:30, preserving the personal connection the theater holds.
Reflecting on the future of cinemas in the streaming age, Smith said, “People have changed how they consume media…but like Broadway, movies in theaters will never fully go away. They’ll just get more expensive.”
He added that running his own theater has highlighted the challenges of attracting audiences, especially for new films.
Smith also touched on the long-awaited sequel to Mallrats, Twilight of the Mallrats, which has faced delays following Shannen Doherty’s passing and discussions with Universal Studios. While Smith hopes to revive the project, he acknowledged that Universal’s hesitation to release the rights has been a stumbling block.
“Fingers crossed,” Smith said, hoping for a resolution, but added, “If I can’t make a Mallrats sequel, I will live and make something else.”
Smith continues to balance his love for filmmaking and his dedication to keeping small-town cinemas alive, ensuring that both moviegoers and his loyal fans remain engaged with his work.
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