The "Kevin Smith Universe" refers to a series of interconnected films and characters created by filmmaker Kevin Smith. It began with his debut film, Clerks, in 1994, which introduced audiences to the lives of two convenience store clerks. Smith's unique blend of humor and pop culture references has since expanded to include films like Mallrats, Chasing Amy, and Dogma, all featuring recurring characters and themes. This universe is often referred to as the "View Askewniverse," named after Smith's production company, View Askew Productions. The films share a common setting and often feature cameos and crossovers, creating a cohesive narrative that appeals to fans of indie cinema and comic book culture.