Kevin Smith’s movies have always been, in some way, reflections on his life. Whether he’s dropping foul-mouthed insight on Star Wars, shitty jobs, ex-girlfriends, or a nearly-fatal heart attack, Smith waxes poetic about them all, while firmly staying in touch with nerd culture and a love for cinema. He’s never been as nostalgic for the days of old movies and young love than he is in his latest film, The 4:30 Movie, a John Hughes-esque teen comedy that is the sweetest, most personal yet from Smith.
Shot primarily at Smith’s New Jersey movie theater, SmodCastle Cinemas, The 4:30 Movie actually features a stand-in for the filmmaker, Brian, played by young actor Austin Zajur. He’s joined by a trio of stars, Siena Agudong as Melody, Brian’s dreamgirl who he invites to catch the 4:30 film at the theater; plus Nicholas Cirillo and Reed Northrup as Brian’s best pals Burny and Belly. Together, they navigate a crazy day at the theater as they try not to get kicked out before Brian and Melody can have their long-awaited first date.
It’s the first time to my recollection that Smith has made a movie about teenagers, or more specifically, about himself at the age of sixteen before he knew how deep his love of cinema went. To tell this story, Smith surrounded himself not only with the places he loves most, but also the people. The film is filled from top to bottom with celebrity guest stars, and of course, Smith’s familiar View Askew pals such as Jason Mewes, Jeff Anderson, and Brian O’Halloran.
But it’s the foursome of Zajur, Agudong, Cirillo, and Northrop who carry The 4:30 Movie, capturing the spirit of being a teen in 1986 with an uncertain future ahead. I had the chance to speak with all four actors about starring in The 4:30 Movie, and what it was like to work with Smith on such a personal comedy. We also discussed the friendship they forged on set, their own love of movies, and a lot more.
Please check out my interview with the cast of The 4:30 Movie below, and my review of the film here. It opens in theaters on September 13th!
