Bank on It

Director Kevin Smith has made the New Jersey town of Red Bank a vital character in many of his films.

Anyone who's seen a Kevin Smith movie knows that several of them are partly love letters to New Jersey. The town of Red Bank has been the most important silent character, as seen in his most acclaimed work, Chasing Amy. Although Smith - who grew up in nearby Highlands and lived in Red Bank until 2002 - moved to California a few years ago, he couldn't let go of the local comic book store he owns and visits with his family as often as he can. As he says, "When I go back to Red Bank - now that's like going home."

What is it about Red Bank that won you over?
"Red Bank is the cradle of civilization, man. Riverview Hospital was where I was born and then, 29 years later, had my kid. Chasing Amy was set there, so it delivered to me and kept delivering. People were always really sweet to us. It's a great place to raise a kid. The beautiful scenic views by the water are just amazing. Red Bank is also somewhat historical in terms of jazz and the war effort. What's now The Galleria Red Bank (www.thegalleriaredbank.com; a boutique and dining area) was a manufacturing plant for military uniforms in World War II."

You made a local music shop a big part of Chasing Amy. What's the store like?
"[When I was growing up], most days we just went to Jack's Music Shoppe (www.jacksmusicshop.com). It's a great place if you're into many different kinds of music. They have new and classic instruments. I know many big-name musicians swear by the place. Music has always been a part of Red Bank."

Speaking of music, Count Basie is from Red Bank, right?
"Yep, and the Count Basie Theatre (www.countbasietheatre.org) has gotten some top musicians over the years. I told you that music is a big part of this town! The Dublin House (732-747-6699) is also good for live music, though not necessarily jazz."

What are some of your favorite restaurants in town?
"Juanito's (732-747-9118) has tasty authentic Mexican food and Broadway Diner (732-224-1234) is fun - perfect when you just want to sit back and feel what a classic New Jersey diner is all about."

Tell us about your comic book store, Jay and Silent Bob's Secret Stash (www.jayandsilentbob.com).
"If you love comics, then you'll be in there forever. You'll find rare comics and new stuff that will blow you away. I also like the vibe - it's somewhere you can just talk about your favorite issues for hours. I don't like a store that just shoves you in and out like a factory. You can see a lot of the props and things we used in my movies, if you're into that."