Silent Bob makes some noise: Director Kevin Smith to visit campus
Kevin Smith has a cult following and a legion of loyal fans. Not bad for someone who rarely speaks in his own movies. Smith is the brains behind “Clerks”, “Mallrats”, “Chasing Amy”, “Dogma”, “Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back” and “Jersey Girl”. Many of the films are cult classics, laden with dialog ripe for frequent recitation.
“He’s a good voice for the younger generation,” said Paul Jones, president of the University of Alaska Anchorage film club. “I can’t think of another filmmaker who sees things and comments on them like he does.”
In his films, Smith plays Silent Bob, the quiet, contemplative counterpart to Jason Mewes’ explosive Jay. The two are standard fixtures in Smith’s films, allowing him to spend time both behind and in front of the camera. Smith’s newest film, “Jersey Girl”, is a romantic comedy that shows he is maturing. The proof? Jay and Silent Bob aren’t even in it.
“It will be cool to hear him talk about the difference between making serious movies and films that are completely ridiculous,” Jones said.
With a question and answer session, the event will also provide a chance for film buffs to hear the independent film guru talk about the business. Smith super-fan and UAA film club member David Turnbull recommends doing your homework before the show.
“I hope people avoid stuff that he has already talked about. Go rent his DVD,” Turnbull said in reference to 2002’s “An Evening with Kevin Smith.”
The forums are a way for Smith to keep in touch with the community that supports his films. Jones likes that Smith can give advice and tips to burgeoning indy filmmakers and also talk about the hurdles of working in Hollywood.
“He has accomplished a lot and it’s cool that he lectures at colleges as a way to give back,” Jones said.
For Turnbull, the chance to see Smith come to Alaska is a dream come true. Turnbull’s admiration for Smith led him to take a trip to Vulgarthon, Smith’s New Jersey film festival.
He has trouble defining what it is about Smith’s movies that he likes so much. He says part of it is the characters, part of it is the humor and, well, he enjoys the cussing, too.
This time, Turnbull won’t have to pony up the money for a plane ticket and have to travel across the United States, he can just cruise over to campus.
“This time it’s only going to cost me $20 instead of $1,000,” Turnbull said.
Kevin Smith will be on campus Saturday, April 24 in the Wendy Williamson Auditorium. The show is $7 for UAA students and $20 for general admission. Those interested in a recap of his work can catch a showing of “Dogma” at 8 p.m. on April 22 and “Chasing Amy” on April 23 at 10 p.m., also in the WWA. The admission for the movies is $1 for students and $2 for general admission. Students can get their tickets at the Campus Center Information Desk or at the door. General admission tickets are available at CarrsTix outlets or by calling 1-800-GR8-SEAT.
