Controversial Bob

Some might say the MPAA has it in for Kevin Smith. Seriously, the dude can't catch a break. His films have been given un-box-office-friendly ratings since the mid-'90s with his latest, Zack and Miri Make a Porno, getting smacked with an NC-17. Luckily, when you've got a mad cult following, balls of brass and the Weinsteins on your side, the MPAA doesn't stand much of a chance. After an appeal Zack and Miri was reduced to an R, reminding Kevin Smith fans a bit of the good old days. In 1994 Smith's first film, Clerks--a lovable (albeit raunchy) indie comedy about a day in the life of two friends who work at a convenience store--went through the same struggle. Smith spent every last dime he had (and even more that he didn't) making the first of his infamous View Askew films, only to be told it wouldn't be seen by a wide audience because of a hyper-strict NC-17 rating. Needless to say, Smith appealed, and Clerkswas not only seen but brought in millions, rocked film festivals, launched Smith's coveted career and arguably reinvented a genre. The flick that started it all is this weekend's midnight movie at the Inwood Theatre. For more information visit landmarktheatres.com.
Fri., Sept. 5; Sat., Sept. 6, 2008