Kevin Smith's third film, "Chasing Amy," finds the director maturing in all aspects of his filmmaking. The romantic drama features a rich and layered screenplay, a confident aesthetic, and a searing lead performance. Not only is "Chasing Amy" a huge step forward for Smith, but it is one of 1997's best films.

"Chasing Amy" revolves around another pair of buddies trying to find their places in the world of life and love. When Ben Affleck's Holden falls for Joey Lauren Adams' Alyssa, multiple lives are impacted. Alyssa, who is gay, finds her world changing. Holden's pal, Jason Lee's Banky, must confront his closeted perhaps-homophobia, and Holden must come to grips with his own insecurities.

Smith dips his story in the now-requisite font of pop-cultural references and comic book minutiae, but his focus is the relationship of Holden and Alyssa. The two are classic star-crossed lovers whom fate will not let come together. Their scenes together are impassioned, and, through the two characters, Smith explores love, longing, and the personal cultural shifts brought about by falling for someone against type. Alyssa represents a mature, diverse understanding of human interactions, sexual or otherwise; while Holden is full of distrust and wobbly security. Together, the two make one of cinema's most underappreciated pairings both on the surface and with the subtext they communicate.

The world of "Chasing Amy" is full of dingy bars and cluttered apartments. Smith creates an overcast canvas on which to tell his story; it is a rainy, downcast palette brightened by the personalities of Smith's characters. Compositions are assured, and editing has a mostly professional polish.

Smith cast is strong. Adams turns in an excellent performance, Affleck is sensitive, and the collection of cameos and supporting actors works well. The stand-out element here, however, is Smith's script. While the dialogue still boasts the idiosyncratic clunk of Smith's other screenplays, the verbal interactions of "Chasing Amy" flow smoothly. It is a well-rendered and knowing piece of work with bits of humor and torrents of passion. It is human, personal, and unforgettable.

"Chasing Amy" is an excellent film built around a compelling romance. It is told with polish but does not neglect its independent roots. An unpolished gem of a romantic drama, the film burns bright with its universal yet entirely personal statements on love and life.