So as I mentioned in a previous post, we went to go see Zack And Miri Make A Porno this past weekend while in Altamonte, Florida.  Considering all the hoopla and hullabaloo surrounding the content of the film, the original poster of the film, and the use of the word PORNO in the title… as Scott Mosier pointed out on this week’s SModCast, “It’s not like it’s called Zack And Miri Make A Snuff Film!” Mosier is possibly the only Canadian I will agree with whole heartedly, with the possible exception of Mike, on the ridiculous nature and uber sensitivity of the citizens of the United States.  Seriously people… where was the outcry for Silent Night, Deadly Night where Santa Claus hacked the bejeebus out of Cabbage Patch Kid expecting children!  But I’m not here to debate the validity of conservative fears in this country… that’s what other blogs are for.

I am here to talk about how Seth Rogen and Elizabeth Banks got their romp on in a non Apatow produced flick.  Not only did they get their romp on with timely delivery, great physical presence, and a chemistry that may lead to a screen explosion once released on DVD… but once again Kevin Smith enabled moviegoers to identify with them instantly through the power of economic crisis.  Smith‘s genius did not end there my friends… oh no.

The story of platonic best friends Zack and Miri falling into a financial crisis that sees them go from bad (water and electricity turned off) to worse (non functioning furnace due to ceased utilities leads to burning cans in the living room for heat) and enduring it the best way they know how… to become entrepreneurs and make some serious money.  Unlike other people who have done the exact same thing with creating a product or service, they instead decide to go the entertainment route and make a pornographic film for distribution on DVD.

As a nod (intended or not) to Steve Jobs and the support Apple had for the failed Say No To Prop 8 Campaign, Smith has Justin Long of the Apple commercials (he’s the Mac) playing an openly gay porn star who’s lover is in the closet.  Long delivers such low energy high passion and suave performance, that its hard to believe he is more famous for the commercials than even his role as second fiddle to Bruce Willis in Die Hard 4… where of course he seeks the advice from the “Cyber-Jedi” played by Smith himself.

In a twist of irony for fans of the Smithaverse, Jeff Anderson goes from being video store clerk Randall to videographer Deacon.  Anderson‘s transformation to a sub-role is seamless, although there is an ode to his love for hockey as he and Seth Rogen play on the same hockey team… The Monroeville Zombies.  Gee… I wonder where I’ve seen that jersey before???

The cast is further enhanced by veteran porn stars Tracy Lord and Katie Morgan.  The fact these two pros were on hand lends a certain level of credibility to Smith‘s envisioning… and also gives them some credibility as real actresses.  Especially Katie Morgan who shined through the celluloid (or digital hard drive) with all her clothes on.

Of course, no Smith flick is complete without Jason Mewes.  Playing “hung like a horse” Lester, not only does Mewes deliver on his usual high energy antics, a professional looking bang from behind session with Katie Morgan, but he actually is able to deliver heartfelt deep lines while standing naked in front of Seth Rogen before explaining in detail the mechanics behind a Dutch Rudder.  I’ll admit it… I’m a Mewesaniac… so unless he stars in another crap flick with Paris Hilton, he can do no wrong to my eyes.

The movie calls into question the validity of truly platonic relationships between a man and a woman, shows that sex and making love are two different things (or at least different soundtracks), and speaks volumes about the the sheer desperation that a personal economic crisis can place a person.  Most importantly though, it highlights the importance of clear communication in any relationship… and puts a spotlight on the inability of males in general to do so.  Smith delivers a movie worthy to have its name plastered on billboards and bus stops across the country.

Ultimately this movie killed… which makes me wonder if it isn’t a snuff film after all.

Now if only we could get rid of Jersey Girl… all would be golden in the Smithaverse.