Chasing Amy

The plot focuses on Holden Mc McNeil (Ben Affleck), a successful comic book artist who has yet to fall really and truly in love. While at a comic book show with his friend of twenty years and collaborator, Banky Edwards (Jason Lee), with whom he lives, Holden ends up meeting a struggling, spunky, independent, female comic book artist, the gorgeous and sexy Alyssa Jones (Joey Lauren Adams). The only problem is that she claims to like women. This self-styled lesbian and Holden begin a friendship, however, that eventually deepens into something else.

Unfortunately, a strange love triangle of sorts seems to develop among Alyssa, Holden, and Banky, as Banky takes a strong dislike to Alyssa when she and Holden manage to take their relationship to the next level. The seemingly jealous Banky does his best to try to erode the bonds between the two, but it is Holden himself who does the most to erode what he and Alyssa have, with a little inadvertent help from Alyssa. It seems that the concept of unconditional love is one with which Holden has a problem.

This is a gender bender sort of film, with wonderful performances by the entire cast. Ben Affleck is well cast as Holden, giving a winning performance. Jason Lee is terrific as the erstwhile best friend with issues. Joey Lauren Adams lights up the screen every time she is in a scene. She does a terrific job with the role of the conflicted Alyssa. Dwight Ewell is sensational as Hooper LaMont, the ostensibly racist comic book artist, who has his own issues and is quite funny. Look also for a cameo by Jay (Jason Mewes) and Silent Bob (Kevin Smith). It is Silent Bob who lets the viewer in on the meaning of the film's title.

All in all, this is a highly enjoyable, off-beat and edgy, romantic comedy that fans of Kevin Smith will enjoy, as will all those film lovers who simply enjoy a great film. Bravo!