Having launched his career, the Clerks franchise is obviously near and dear to Kevin Smith’s heart. It doesn’t seem like a stretch to assume each entry of the franchise reflects the events in is life. Released earlier this year and four years after a severe heart attack, Kevin Smith doesn’t abandon the raunchy humor that appeals to so many fans, but the issue of mortality plays heavily into every frame of Clerks III. The result is a surprisingly sensitive film.

Dante (Brian O’Halloran) and Randal (Jeff Anderson) still behind the counter at the Quick Stop convenience store. They’re co-owners now, but not much has changed. They’re enjoying an afternoon of roof hockey with friends while Jay and Silent Bob (Jason Mewes and Kevin Smith), hustle weed in front of their store. Dante is still depressed, and Randal is sarcastic as ever, but they have a routine that works for them. When Randal suffers a massive heart attack it serves as a wake-up call for him. He decides to make a movie of his life, enlisting Jay and Silent Bob to capture the good, bad and the weird. As they audition actors and eventually decide to fill the roles themselves, Dante is in a dark place, dealing with loss.

An unapologetic nostalgia piece, the shoot turns the Quick Stop into a studio where Kevin Smith recreates scenes from Clerks and the behind-the-scenes battles.  It works, because Clerks III is a thank you letter to the middle-aged fans who discovered the original as college kids in the ‘90s, who related to its geeky characters and low budget origins. Like them, Dante and Randal have aged, but they are still awkward complaining about Star Wars.

For those unfamiliar with Kevin Smith, Clerks III doesn’t work as a standalone film. The Clerks films are personal for Kevin Smith and that’s what makes them enjoyable. If Dante, Randal and the rest have been part of your movie watching habits since the 1990’s, Clerks III is made for you.

Presented in the 1.90:1 aspect ratio, Clerks III looks excellent in 1080p. the film offers vivid colors and rich details. Facial details look normal, revealing a few gray hairs! Carefully used digital grain gives select scenes a dreamlike appearance. Brief moments shot in black and white offer nice grayscale. The transfer is devoid of any print flaws. Fans should be pleased with this visual presentation.

Clerks III features a Dolby Atmos soundtrack that handles the film well. Surround activity is present throughout. Several outdoor scenes have notable ambient sound. A nice sense of directionality is also present. Dialogue is clean, clear and concise.

English, French and Spanish subtitles are available.

Along with a digital copy of the film, the following special features are included:

  • Introduction by Kevin Smith (HD; 2:14) Not listed as an official supplement, it plays automatically when you boot the disc.
  • Audio Commentary with Writer / Director Kevin Smith, and Actors Brian O’Halloran, Jeff Anderson, Trevor Fehrman and Austin Zajur: The informative, occasionally rowdy time Clerks fans will enjoy.
  • The Clerks III Documentary (HD; 1:36:12) The first of two documentaries on the film, offering tons of information and interviews about the film.
  • We’re Not Even Supposed to Be Here Today: 3 Decades of Clerks (HD; 1:15:15) More behind the scenes fun.
  • Deleted and Alternate Scenes (HD; 29:30)
  • Theatrical Trailer (HD; 1:56)