Filmmaker Kevin Smith, known for his witty dialogue and eccentric characters, takes us on a nostalgic ride back to the summer of 1986 with The 4:30 Movie, an earnest coming-of-age comedy that centers around three sixteen-year-old friends—Brian, Burny, and Belly—who spend their Saturdays sneaking into the local multiplex. Smith beautifully captures the essence of adolescence by combining humor with heartfelt moments that resonate deeply with those familiar with the joys and trials of youth.
Set over a single, uneventful day, the story seamlessly intertwines the excitement of teenage camaraderie with a tender exploration of personal growth. When Brian (Austin Zajur, The Fallout) decides to invite Melody (Siena Agudong, “Resident Evil”), the girl of his dreams, to see the latest comedy with his boys, the group’s dynamic suddenly shifts. This leads to a series of mishaps and revelations that ultimately teaches each of them valuable lessons about life and love. Zajur, Cirillo, and Northrup bring their characters to life with a wonderful authenticity, while Agudong shines as the charming and confident Melody. The entire thing is dependent on their chemistry, and our nerdy teens absolutely nail it.
The 4:30 Movie is a sweet homage to the films of the '80s, echoing the heart and soul of a John Hughes film – only quirkier, with a touch of Spielberg’s introspective storytelling in The Fabelmans. Yet, Smith carves his own path, infusing the film with his unique voice and vision. Smith fans who have become disillusioned by his mid-career work will find The 4:30 Movie a refreshing return to form, reminiscent of the sincerity and benevolence of his acclaimed Chasing Amy from 1997.
Sure, some of the humor doesn’t always hit, particularly the recurring crude jokes (though harmless) and Ken Jeong’s boisterous, over-the-top portrayal of Manager Mike who is always hell-bent on banning the boys from the theater. But the film's heart remains intact, as Smith skillfully balances his own brand of comedy with poignant reflections.
Most enjoyable, however, are the recurring references to things that will never happen in future sequels (while the audience knows they actually do), the numerous unexpected cameos, and hilarious fake trailers (Sister Sugar Walls) and movies that poke fun at B-movies of the era. And the Smith detractors may be happy to learn that no “View Askewniverse” characters make appearances.
The 4:30 Movie realizes its biggest success with its genuine reflection of Smith's own childhood experiences. The film's portrayal of nerdy teens causing trouble, navigating dating, and getting banned from theaters feels like it comes from a place close to his heart. This authenticity and approachability make it Smith's most accessible work in years, appealing to long-time fans and new viewers alike.
The 4:30 Movie is more than just a nostalgic trip; it's a heartfelt celebration of youth, friendship, and the magic of cinema. For those eager to see Smith return to his roots, this film is a delightful reminder of why we fell in love with his storytelling in the first place.
MPAA Rating: R.
Runtime: 87 mins
Director: Kevin Smith
Writer: Kevin Smith
Cast: Siena Agudong; Austin Zajur; Kate Micucci
Genre: Comedy
Tagline: When real life sucks, REEL life rules!
Memorable Movie Quote: "Cool! I'll see you at the 4:30 movie Melody Barnegat"
Theatrical Distributor: Saban Films
Official Site:
Release Date: August 24, 2024
DVD/Blu-ray Release Date:
Synopsis: A group of teens in the 1980s spend the day theater-hopping.
