Clerks: 'Over the Counter' Culture and Youth Cinema

This book explores the cultural and political trends of alternative youth cultures in the early 1990s, focusing on Kevin Smith's debut film, Clerks. It analyzes the film's representation of working-class youth and employment, consumption, masculinity, and sexuality and its place within this wider cultural movement. Ideal for students, scholars, and anyone interested in youth cinema, American independent film, Cult Film, Subcultures and Counterculture, and Film and American Studies.

Format: Hardback
Length: 108 pages
Publication date: 28 December 2020
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This groundbreaking study delves into the intricate intersection of political and cultural trends that shaped alternative youth cultures in the early 1990s, shedding light on the seminal debut film of Kevin Smith. Clerks (1994) emerged as a direct reflection and celebration of a distinct youth subculture, with the multimedia 'View Askewniverse' evolving as a result of the film's initial release. Drawing upon a rich tapestry of existing texts and movements, including Richard Linklater's iconic Slacker (1991), Douglas Coupland's novel Generation X: Tales for an Accelerated Culture, and alternative rock subcultures that had emerged during and since the 1980s, the film offers a comedic portrayal of the experiences of young individuals in 1990s America. Despite being filmed on a modest budget, the film's raw aesthetic, coupled with a hard rock soundtrack featuring predominantly independent bands, resonated deeply with audiences, earning praise for its authentic portrayal of the era.

The book situates Clerks within the broader cultural movement and zeitgeist of its time, exploring the profound impact of Reaganomics on working-class youth and employment. It delves into the film's portrayal of consumption, masculinity, and sexuality, offering insightful perspectives on these themes. With its clear, concise, and comprehensive approach, the book serves as an invaluable resource for students, scholars, and enthusiasts of youth cinema, American independent film, Cult Film, Subcultures and Counterculture, as well as Film and American Studies more broadly.

Weight: 272g
Dimension: 142 x 222 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367333546