Kevin Smith and his work Kevin Patrick Smith (born August 2, 1970) is a screenwriter, director and creator of View Askew Productions. He is also known as a comic book writer and actor, although he has criticized his acting ability on more than one occasion. Smith's films are often set in his home state of New Jersey and are filled with pop culture references, particularly Star Wars comics and films. Many of Kevin's films are set in the "View Askewniverse" and feature appearances by small-time marijuana dealers Jay and Silent Bob, the latter played by Smith himself..