“Rushmore” and “Clerks,” for two

“Rushmore” and “Clerks,” for Two: A Crossword Challenge

This week’s crossword clue has sent solvers scrambling for their dictionaries and thesaurus! It’s a tricky one, with a double-barreled reference to two beloved films, and a dash of wordplay to boot. Let’s break it down and see if we can crack this cryptic gem.

The clue reads: “

_Rushmore_

and

_Clerks_

, for two.”

Right off the bat, we’ve got a pair of movie titles, each with a distinct style and tone. “Rushmore” evokes Wes Anderson’s quirky, whimsical world of eccentric characters and meticulous visual style, while “Clerks” throws us into the irreverent, cynical universe of Kevin Smith’s indie classic, set in a convenience store.

It’s important to remember that crossword clues often play with words, so the phrase “for two” likely isn’t a straightforward indication of quantity. It’s more likely a hint about the type of answer we’re looking for.

Here’s where things get interesting. We need a term that encompasses the essence of BOTH films, linking them together. It’s not simply a matter of finding two words that describe each film individually. The answer must capture the spirit of both movies, perhaps highlighting a shared theme or a common element of their respective worlds.

Think about the tone, the characters, the settings, and the overall vibe of both “Rushmore” and “Clerks.” Do any common threads emerge?

Take your time, consult your trusty word lists, and let’s see if we can crack this challenging clue together!

Available Answers:

CULT FILMS.

Last seen on the crossword puzzle: NY Times Crossword 17 Sep 24, Tuesday