| American director, actor and screenwriter, founder of the film company View Askew Productions. Date of Birth: 02.08.1970 Country: USA |
Kevin Patrick Smith (born August 2, 1970, in Red Bank, New Jersey) is an American filmmaker, actor, and writer known for his unique cinematic universe and witty dialogue. Smith's childhood in Red Bank heavily influenced his work, immersing him in the local culture and language that would later characterize his films.
Smith's passion for cinema was ignited by Richard Linklater's low-budget film "Slacker." Inspired, he enrolled in the Vancouver Film School in Canada but ultimately dropped out, citing creative differences. During his time at the school, he forged a lifelong friendship with Scott Mosier, his future producer.
Returning to New Jersey, Smith worked as a convenience store clerk, an experience that would inspire his debut film, "Clerks." With limited funds, he gathered $27,000 by selling his comic book collection and enlisted friends and local actors. "Clerks" premiered at the 1994 Sundance Film Festival, gaining a cult following and eventually securing a distribution deal with Miramax.
The film's success launched Smith's View Askew Productions and introduced the "View Askewniverse," a fictional setting in New Jersey that would become the backdrop for several of his subsequent films.
Smith's interconnected films are known for their recurring characters, including Jay and Silent Bob (played by Smith himself). The View Askewniverse includes "Clerks," "Clerks II," "Mallrats," "Dogma," "Chasing Amy," and "Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back," all set in or referencing the fictional towns of Leonardo and Red Bank.
Smith's most critically acclaimed film, "Dogma," a theological comedy-drama, was released in 1999. The film drew controversy for its depiction of Catholicism, leading to protests from religious groups.
In 2001, Smith released "Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back," a road trip comedy featuring a star-studded cast. The film was criticized for perceived homophobia, leading Smith to donate to the Matthew Shepard Foundation.
"Jersey Girl" (2004) marked a departure from Smith's previous work, with a more mainstream tone and a focus on a widowed father. "Clerks II" (2006) returned to the familiar View Askewniverse, updating the characters and setting of the original film.
In addition to his cinematic endeavors, Smith is a passionate comic book enthusiast. He has created comics based on his films and characters, including "Clerks: The Comic Book," "Chasing Dogma," and "Bluntman and Chronic."
Smith has collaborated with Marvel Comics, writing eight issues of "Daredevil" in 1999. He served as an executive producer on "Good Will Hunting" and contributed to the screenplay, although he denies rumors that he co-wrote it.
Smith is known for his close relationships with his fans. He maintains an active website and regularly interacts with his supporters. He also hosts the Vulgarthon film festival in Red Bank, where attendees can engage with the cast and crew of his films.
Kevin Smith has become a beloved figure in independent cinema. His unique voice, memorable characters, and comedic timing have earned him a dedicated following. His View Askewniverse remains a testament to his creativity and his ability to connect with audiences on a personal level.