This cognitive reframe helped launch The Kevin Smith Cinematic Universe| Big Think+

Kevin Smith: The Power of Reasonable Unreasonability

Key Concepts:

• Reasonable Unreasonability: Taking calculated risks to pursue dreams, even when conventional wisdom suggests otherwise.
• Professional Kevin Smith: Embracing one's authentic self and making a living from it.
• IFFM (Independent Feature Film Marketplace): A sales-oriented event for independent films, distinct from a film festival.
• Cognitive Reframing: Changing one's perspective on a situation to find a more positive or constructive interpretation.
• Extended Adolescence: Pursuing passions and dreams throughout life, rather than conforming to societal expectations of adulthood.

1. The Genesis of "Clerks" and the IFFM Experience:

• Kevin Smith's career began with "Clerks" (1994), a film about the drudgery of a dead-end job.
• The film was inspired by Richard Linklater's "Slacker," which showed Smith that filmmaking was possible outside of Hollywood.
• Smith leveraged his access to a convenience store where he worked to create a unique and relatable story.
• "Clerks" was financed with $27,575 in credit card debt.
• The initial screening at the IFFM (Independent Feature Film Marketplace) was a near disaster, with a sparse audience and Smith's own critical self-assessment of the film's quality.
• Smith experienced a moment of crisis, questioning his choices and the film's potential.

2. Cognitive Reframing and the Decision to Persist:

• Approximately 15 minutes into the IFFM screening, Smith underwent a cognitive reframe.
• He reminded himself of his initial inspiration and the accomplishment of creating a film despite the challenges.
• Smith resolved to pay off the debt incurred by the film and to make another movie, driven by the profound sense of self-discovery he experienced on set.
• He recognized filmmaking as his true calling, a stark contrast to the uncertainty he felt before.
• The core message was: "Don't sell out on this just because it didn't work the way you wanted it to. Remember that feeling of finally knowing who you are, and get back to that feeling one day."

3. Sundance, Miramax, and a Career is Born:

• "Clerks" was submitted to Sundance Film Festival and was accepted as one of 16 films out of 400 submissions.
• Miramax acquired "Clerks," launching Smith's career as a filmmaker.
• The acquisition allowed Smith to pay off his debt and transition from a convenience store clerk to a professional filmmaker.

4. The Philosophy of "Reasonable Unreasonability":

• Smith's parents questioned his career choice, highlighting the inherent risks and lack of guarantees in the film industry.
• Smith embraced "reasonable unreasonability," a willingness to take calculated risks and pursue his dreams despite the odds.
• He defines it as understanding the conventional wisdom but choosing to bet on oneself anyway.
• Smith argues that life is short and unpredictable, so it's essential to pursue one's passions.
• "You might as well do the thing that you dream about doing for heaven's sake."

5. Professional Kevin Smith:

• Smith describes his career trajectory as evolving from a filmmaker to "Professional Kevin Smith."
• This signifies embracing his authentic self and making a living by being himself.
• He acknowledges the shared experience of having "sh**ty jobs," which inspired the premise of "Clerks."

6. Conclusion:

Kevin Smith's story is a testament to the power of pursuing one's dreams with a blend of passion, self-belief, and a willingness to take calculated risks. His journey from a convenience store clerk to a successful filmmaker underscores the importance of embracing "reasonable unreasonability" and staying true to oneself, even in the face of adversity. The key takeaway is that pursuing one's passions is a worthwhile endeavor, regardless of the challenges, because it leads to self-discovery and a more fulfilling life.