Kevin Smith is paying tribute to 1980s teen movies with his latest project. The New Jersey-born director, best known for “Clerks,” unveiled the trailer for his 16th film, “The 4:30 Movie,” on Monday. Touted as his “most personal film to date,” the movie is set to premiere in theaters through Saban Films on September 13.
“The 4:30 Movie,” set during the summer of 1986, is a coming-of-age story that follows three 16-year-old friends who spend their Saturdays sneaking into the local cineplex. The plot thickens when Brian, played by Austin Zajur, invites his crush Melody, portrayed by Siena Agudong, to watch an R-rated film. Their plans go awry as they contend with a self-important theater manager, played by Ken Jeong, and various teen rivalries.
Described as a “poignant comic valentine to moviegoing and the youth of the ’80s,” Smith expressed his deep personal connection to the film. He announced its world premiere on August 24 at Smodcastle Cinemas, a theater in Atlantic Highlands, NJ, which he saved from demolition in 2022 after frequenting it during his childhood.
On Instagram, Smith wrote, “It’s a personal paean to the John Hughes coming-of-age movies I grew up watching, shot in the same movie theater where I saw ’em all as a kid!”
Smith also described the film as a not-so-secret origin story set in his hometown of Highlands, NJ, and neighboring Atlantic Highlands, NJ, where Smodcastle Cinemas is located. He encouraged fans to attend the world premiere, noting that tickets are available at The430Movie.movie, and added, “When real life sucks, REEL life rules!”
The film features an ensemble cast including Justin Long, Rosario Dawson, Jason Biggs, Jason Lee, Method Man, Kate Micucci, Rachel Dratch, Sam Richardson, Adam Pally, Jason Mewes, Brian O’Halloran, Jeff Anderson, and Harley Quinn Smith.
