When I heard a Clerks. sequel was being made, I was very skeptical of how good it was actually gonna be. I love Kevin Smith and all his wacky character's, but his more recent films have been lacking. Even as a ViewAskew-a-holic, I couldn't give Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back more than 3 stars at best (if that). Then came the trailers, and I knew it would be the funniest film of the summer. And, it was.
Roughly 10 years after the first film, the infamous Randal Graves and Dante Hicks are still working at the Quick Stop. Except, as the film opens, the place burns to the ground. Forced to find new job's, they are both accepted to the less than spectacular Mooby's crew. Their fellow co-worker, Elias, who is a Lord of the Rings junkie (as well as a conservative Christian), becomes the butt of many jokes. Jay and Silent Bob stand outside. And the boss is a pretty cute, but kinda crazy chick named Becky. The big surprise? Dante's engaged! And from there, begins the chaotic and hilarious exploit's of the Clerk's cast.
We saw it opening day, midafternoon, probably the second possible showing at the theater we hit up. It wasn't too packed, but the people there were definitly Clerk's fans. It made everyone there laugh outloud at several points (even my brother, who very rarely does that during movies).
The cameo's were short and perfect. All of the actor's were spectacular. Jay and Silent Bob were funnier than ever. And the new members (Elias and Becky) fit into the humor brilliantly.
This film is the perfect sequel to Clerks. I don't think there is anything to criticize or say could have been done better, because Kevin Smith thought of it all and made the changes before it came out. If you liked Clerks, I garauntee that you'll love Clerks II.
(And btw: stay for the credits... all of the people who supported the film via myspace are listed in alphabetical order, plus it has Kevin's usual comments. It's worth the five extra minutes.)