Mallrats is a stoner comedy film directed by Kevin Smith. The film follows best friend duo T.S (Jeremy London) and Brodie (Jason Lee), as they’re both dumped and must find a way to either move on or get back together with their respective girlfriend. Like all great quests, theirs start out at the mall.
I have a big soft spot in my heart for the films of Kevin Smith, I have fond memories of watching them growing up and after rewatching this one a few nights ago I have to say it still holds up.
I loved all the nerdy little in jokes and of course Brodie’s conversation with Stan Lee is the highlight of the movie. The conversation manages to be both moving and also incredibly funny and appeal to my comic fan side all at the same time.
I have also loved Jason Lee from a young age growing up watching My Name Is Earl so seeing him here in this prime was a treat. He was hilarious and easily had some of the funniest and most quotable lines in the whole film. Also seeing him interact with the future Randy (Ethan Suplee), was another highlight for me.
My one complaint would be I don’t think it has aged well. There are a number of jokes that seem a bit old fashioned by today’s standards and there is also a prolonged scene just staring at a woman’s breasts that feels a bit needless and creepy if I am being honest, but the 90’s were a different time I suppose.
Overall, this still stands up as one of Smith’s gems and one of the standouts of the era. It may offend those of a deflect sensibility, but it is still well worth the watch.
Pros.
The Stan Lee appearance
Jason Lee
The jokes
The realistic but also larger than life feel
Cons.
The icky creepiness.
4/5
Reviewed by Luke
Another Millennial Reviewer 