Original ‘Clerks’ Ending Features Shocking Murder of Main Character

The original version of Kevin Smith‘s cult classic film, Clerks, featured a shocking conclusion that diverges significantly from the film’s widely recognized ending. When the movie premiered at the Independent Feature Film Market in 1993, a nearly empty theatre witnessed a dramatic finale where Dante Hicks, portrayed by Brian O’Halloran, is murdered. This unexpected twist saw a gunman enter the Quick Stop convenience store, where Dante, who informs the assailant that the store is closed, is shot dead. The scene concludes with the assailant robbing the register, leaving Dante’s lifeless body as the credits roll.

In a subsequent post-credits scene, a character played by Smith himself appears, steals a pack of cigarettes, and leaves. This original ending remained largely unseen until it was released on the film’s tenth anniversary DVD in 2004. Dubbed the “Snyder Cut” by Smith, this footage offers a stark contrast to the comedic tone that the final version is known for.

Creative Decisions and Industry Pressure

In the 2004 documentary, *Snowball Effect: The Story of Clerks*, Smith explained that he drew inspiration from Spike Lee‘s *Do the Right Thing*, intending for the film to conclude on a serious note. He even acknowledged Lee in the credits for paving the way for such storytelling decisions. Yet, the response to the original ending was far from positive.

O’Halloran, reflecting on the ending in a 2014 interview with *Rolling Stone*, expressed his discontent, stating, “I hated that ending. I just thought it was too quick of a twist.” Industry professionals also voiced strong opinions against this grim conclusion. John Pierson, who was the producer’s representative for *Clerks*, insisted that Smith remove the murder scene. He argued that it felt like a desperate attempt to conclude the film—a sentiment that Smith contested.

Smith defended the narrative choice, suggesting that the unexpected death was a culmination of Dante’s consistent complaints about being at work that day. Yet, Pierson countered, stating, “That’s not even funny. Cut it and this movie has a future.” Ultimately, recognizing the potential for future projects, Smith chose to modify his artistic vision. He stated, “This ain’t about art, kid. This is about business. You only get to make your art if we do business.”

The Impact of the Edited Version

The decision to alter this pivotal scene has had lasting implications for *Clerks* and its legacy. The film, which became a defining piece of independent cinema, is often celebrated for its humor and relatable characters rather than for a tragic ending. The original footage provides insight into the creative process behind the film and highlights the tension between artistic integrity and commercial viability in the film industry.

As audiences continue to engage with *Clerks*, the revelation of its original ending adds a layer of complexity to its narrative, illustrating how creative decisions can shape a film’s identity. Smith’s journey from a filmmaker with a singular vision to one who navigates the demands of the industry reflects the broader challenges faced by many in the arts. The release of the original scenes has rekindled interest in the film’s history, reminding viewers of the diverse storytelling possibilities that exist within cinema.