• Classification: 15 (yey! – something that’s not 12A!)
• Runtime: 101 min
• UK release date: 22/9/2006
• Directed and written by: Kevin Smith
• Starring: Brian O’Halloran, Jeff Anderson, Rosario Dawson

It’s difficult to believe it’s 12 years since Clerks burst onto our screens with it’s low budget of $27,575 financed by 10 credit cards belonging to Kevin Smith. Clerks II continues the story of Dante “I’m not even supposed to be here, today!” Hicks and Randall Graves working at the ‘Quick Stop’ convenience store. 10 years on, and after Randall leaves the coffee pot on, again, a fire forces the pair to work at a Mooby’s fast-food restaurant. Jay and Silent Bob still skulk around outside the building but now (thanks to Dogma), they have found God – this makes no difference to their behaviour – or language… they just carry a bible.

Continuing the story arcs throughout his films: Clerks, Mallrats, Chasing Amy, Dogma, and Jay & Silent Bob Strike Back; Smith incorporates the usual features such as Star Wars (very entertaining scene comparing it to The Lord of the Rings trilogy); smoking and selling weed; Mooby the Golden Calf; the Buddy Christ; as well as a ‘milk maid’ who makes a worthy appearance in the final scene. Small (but welcome) cameos from Ben Affleck and Jason Lee make the movies consistent and it’s good to see Jason Mewes (as Jay) well and working again.

Don’t anticipate a masterpiece, but Clerks II is a well worthy sequel – especially for Kevin Smith fans. Smith makes the movies he wants to make – sure, he suffers criticism (I hear Jonathan Ross wasn’t too kind about this one!), but he takes it, moves on and comes back with a bang.

If you’re a Smith fan – go and see the movie; if you love Jay & Silent Bob – go and see the movie; if you need a laugh – go and see the movie, it’s well worth it – I loved it! 🙂