Entire societies have been constructed based on the eternal battle between good versus evil, right versus wrong, and not to mention freedom versus tyranny. These epic battles have always taken place with clear-cut sides, a predominantly black and white affair. But what has become of modern society? We are less drawn to the great good versus evil story. Rather, we are capable of being controlled by those who are able to blur the lines between one side and the other. Such is the subject of Thank You for Smoking, a dangerously heartwarming new comedy from Jason Reitman, son of the legendary Ivan Reitman.
Thank You for Smoking is the tale of Nick Naylor. Nick is the man whose job it is to stand up for big tobacco; and he is extremely good at what he does. The proclaimed "Sultan of Spin," Naylor travels the country casting shadows over the dangers of smoking, allowing those whom he serves to profit off of the addictive substance. But as mounting pressure from a Liberal Senator from Vermont, played by William H. Macy, begins to throw Naylor into the battle of his career, he is torn between the job at which he has become incomparably successful and his place as a role model for his 12-year-old son, Joey. With his arrogance and his smooth way with words, Nick sets forth on his journey through the highs and lows of being the marked man at the top of one of the world's most despised entities.
With a cold, quick wit that leaves any audience with a feeling of conflicted emotions, this film takes us into the satirical world of big tobacco, big politics, and big spins. Aaron Eckhart is absolutely brilliant as the morally bankrupt, yet endearing Naylor. He delivers what is easily one of the first great performances of the year. At first, you have no intentions of liking Nick Naylor due to the very nature of his business. But as the story moves forth, his armor built of deception, sarcasm, and irreverence chips away to unveil a father longing to be the heroic figure in the life of his young son. And without the genuine spirit that sits below the audacious veneer of Aaron Eckhart, it would be improbable to say that audiences would be able to relate to, much less fall in love with, the main character. Combine that with an excellent ensemble around him, and you have what could go down as one of the best performances by not only an actor, but an entire cast so far this year.
Article comments
1 - Jon Fowler
I'd have to agree with your review. I saw this last friday and I enjoyed it more than most movies I pay to see.
The wit is quick, the characters are developed well, and I thought some of the over-the-top and comedic areas of the movie were inserted at perfect moments.
My favorite character in the movie would have to be Rob Lowe's, even though he doesn't play a major role his character is very amusing.
It's a great movie, go see it if you haven't. The second best movie I've seen this year (loved V for Vendeta).