Thank You for Smoking
Fox Searchlight Pictures | Release Date: March 17, 2006
7.4
USER SCORE
Generally favorable reviews based on 199 Ratings
USER RATING DISTRIBUTION
Positive:
155
Mixed:
30
Negative:
14
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User Reviews

User scoreBy dateMost helpful
10
CablesApr 15, 2006
Lewis obviously doesn't know what he's talking about. This is one of the funniest movies i've seen in ages.
2 of 2 users found this helpful
5
RyanO.May 13, 2006
This is a very glossy, snappy picture that delivers practically nothing to its audience. That nothingness is wrapped rather expertly in a glib and glossy package though. I laughed aloud a few times.
1 of 1 users found this helpful
7
BarryR.Apr 6, 2006
0 of 1 users found this helpful
3
LewisApr 9, 2006
It sure doesn't hurt to have your multi-millionaire director/father behind when you direct your own first film. Jason Reitman (son of Ivan Reitman) has concocted this weak, unfunny farce/semi-satire about a tobacco industry lobbyist. It sure doesn't hurt to have your multi-millionaire director/father behind when you direct your own first film. Jason Reitman (son of Ivan Reitman) has concocted this weak, unfunny farce/semi-satire about a tobacco industry lobbyist. One would expect from liberal Hollywood types to depict a tobacco industry lobbyist as a churlish, mean-spirited ogre of sorts. But Reitman goes to the other extreme--his man becomes much too sympathetic. And that also goes for the two other "merchants of death" pals (alcohol and gun lobbyists) that our "Hero" ('Nick Naylor) hangs out with in various dinner conversation scenes throughout the movie. Once you see the first of these dinner scenes, you've seen them all. They're very static and all three of our lobbyists (can you imagine this?) have hearts of gold (ugh!). The point is that lobbyists in real life have got to be a lot more complex and tougher than the light-weights shown here. The movie in fact is full of light weight characters. The boss at the "Academy of Tobacco Studies" curses a lot but he's lovable as is Robert Duvall's mentor, a 'been-around-the-block' curmudgeon. The movie starts very slowly and nothing gets going with the plot for about 30 minutes. The first major plot development (the first act) involves Naylor getting an appointment with a Hollywood super agent played by Rob Lowe. Naylor wants the agent to broker a deal with big name Hollywood actors to boost the tobacco's industry's image by having them smoke cigarettes again in the movies like they did in days of old. The idea is too ludicrous to be even satirical. Even so, given the initial set-up, I was expecting the story to involve some machinations in Hollywood but that plot line suddenly dries up. The next plot development is even more ludicrous: unknown anti-smoking activists kidnap Naylor, tie him up, place nicotine patches all over his body and leave him naked in the arms of Abraham Lincoln's statue at the Lincoln Memorial. Naylor's body becomes so toxic that the doctor at the hospital tells him he won't ever be able to smoke again. The mild satire of Rob Lowe's slick Hollywood super-agent, gives way to very low Three Stooges Farce in the 'second act.' The Third act involves Naylor's seduction by a Washington gossip reporter played by Katie Holmes. Inexplicably, Naylor reveals the secrets of his personal and professional life to the reporter who immediately skewers him in a gossip column. Naylor, who supposedly is a slick wheeler-dealer, suddenly is surprised by this supposed 'betrayal of confidence.' Could never happen! Another thing that really amazed me was the fact that Naylor is never shown smoking a cigarette throughout the movie. What a copout! Reitman wants it both ways: he's afraid of offending the anti-smoking crowd (so he shows no one smoking throughout the film) but depicts Naylor as a hero because he champions the view of 'freedom of choice.' The only real wit in the film occurs in the scenes between Naylor and his son who speaks like an adult and manages to get his comuppance on both the father and mother at times. Overall, this film trivializes the dangers of smoking by creating a sympathetic, stick figure tobacco lobbyist with a heart of gold.… Expand
0 of 4 users found this helpful
5
DanC.Feb 21, 2007
I'm amazed by all the reviews calling this movie funny, witty, and bitingly satirical. It's incredibly bland and obvious throughout, as are its characters. Nothing subversive or original here. Almost no laughs, not many quiet funny I'm amazed by all the reviews calling this movie funny, witty, and bitingly satirical. It's incredibly bland and obvious throughout, as are its characters. Nothing subversive or original here. Almost no laughs, not many quiet funny moments, and generally boring as heck. This is 1/100 the satire of a real masterpiece like the South Park movie.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
10
Mat?ssI.Jun 20, 2007
Tired of the usual crap. than this movie is perfect for you!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
DannyVAug 15, 2009
A very sharp film; very original and keeps you guessing. It was nice to see a movie that didn't feel like yet another remake on a popular theme! Kept us thinking and commenting throughout the film! Highly recommended.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
JohnL.Oct 10, 2006
Wow what a movie! This was easily one of the best movies I have seen all year It was very smart and that seems to be lacking in movies nowadays...I
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
KylePOct 18, 2006
Very witty, and very entertaining.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
WadeT.Oct 20, 2006
That rare film treat, a brainy, challenging and funny movie that has the courage to challenge conventional thinking. Nick Naylor becomes the most unlikely likeable character as you actually start understanding (and dare I say appreciating) That rare film treat, a brainy, challenging and funny movie that has the courage to challenge conventional thinking. Nick Naylor becomes the most unlikely likeable character as you actually start understanding (and dare I say appreciating) the role his position fills in terms of the public discourse on cigarette smoking. Eckhart's performance probably won't win him an Oscar but it deserves to be lauded for its straight forward acceptance of who Naylor is. The end result is a unabashed full presentation of the sometimes ludicrous presentations that are passed for intelligent debate. A must see movie.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
JoeyK.Dec 31, 2006
Very funny. It's not your average movie, however. Many of the reviews above make the terrible mistake of assuming that they knew beforehand what the movie was supposed to be like. "It wasn't edgy enough" "It was supposed to satire Very funny. It's not your average movie, however. Many of the reviews above make the terrible mistake of assuming that they knew beforehand what the movie was supposed to be like. "It wasn't edgy enough" "It was supposed to satire tobacco more." It isn't a scathing or outrageous movie, but why should it be? This movie is about rhetoric, debate, and point of view. Smoking is the setting and an exaggerated liberal stance is the antagonist. That doesn't mean its about those. It's a great movie that is deep enough to get you to think about the way you think, plenty satirical, and it still throws in dozens of unexpected laughs. Highly recommended.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
MauriceF.Mar 17, 2006
The playing a Big Tobacco lobbyist, Aaron Eckhart puts his golden news-anchor good looks and smooth conviction to better use than in any pic since his breakthrough film, In the Company of Men. I thought that the movie is amusing and clever The playing a Big Tobacco lobbyist, Aaron Eckhart puts his golden news-anchor good looks and smooth conviction to better use than in any pic since his breakthrough film, In the Company of Men. I thought that the movie is amusing and clever but only skin deep. It lacks the acidity and rage of a satire such as Network. But both sides of the political fence will feel royally skewered. All thats lacking is a warning from the Surgeon General This film will make you laugh till it hurts.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
ChaiTeaMar 17, 2006
A very funny satire, with less than the typical Hollywood redemption at its center. Great performances all the way around, with special mention to Eckhart and Lowe, who manage to keep it sharp and witty, but nicely underplay the more A very funny satire, with less than the typical Hollywood redemption at its center. Great performances all the way around, with special mention to Eckhart and Lowe, who manage to keep it sharp and witty, but nicely underplay the more outrageous aspects of their over the top characters.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
JimP.Mar 29, 2006
Witty and fresh, this movie had me laughing hard. Great for anyone who has any interest in American politics.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
SamE.Apr 10, 2006
Definitely a good watch. For those criticizing the directors portrayal of Nick Naylor, had you gone so actually watch the movie, you'd see "based on the novel by Christopher Buckley." Read the book, the movie doesn't stray far from Definitely a good watch. For those criticizing the directors portrayal of Nick Naylor, had you gone so actually watch the movie, you'd see "based on the novel by Christopher Buckley." Read the book, the movie doesn't stray far from it, and still manages to be excellent.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
[Anonymous]Apr 16, 2006
If you have not read the book on which this film is based, please do - it's laugh-out-loud funny, just like this delightful film. The humor in the film is subtle and clever; the performances, especially Eckhart's, really bring to If you have not read the book on which this film is based, please do - it's laugh-out-loud funny, just like this delightful film. The humor in the film is subtle and clever; the performances, especially Eckhart's, really bring to light a cast of characters unrivalled in recent movies and equal to some of the best film ensembles in history.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
LeslieK.Apr 16, 2006
Almost as good as the book, which is saying something.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
6
ChadS.Apr 21, 2006
"Thank You for Smoking" lacks a moment like the one in "Clerks" when Jason Mewes sells a pack of cigarettes to a little girl. Nick Naylor(Aaron Eckhart) doesn't have to be a caricature of evil like Darth Vader, but we should feel some "Thank You for Smoking" lacks a moment like the one in "Clerks" when Jason Mewes sells a pack of cigarettes to a little girl. Nick Naylor(Aaron Eckhart) doesn't have to be a caricature of evil like Darth Vader, but we should feel some measure of hatred for him. I think the filmmaker might've introduced Nick's son too early in the game. Being a good father redeems Nick in spite of the moral dilemma that is the lobbyist's modus operandi. After his talk with Joey's classmates, he should be in the schoolyard passing out free samples of those candy-flavored cigarettes manufactured by R.J. Reynolds. The tobacco industry isn't especially tactful, so why should a film about them be? "Thank You for Smoking" may not bite hard enough for people who lost loved ones to lung cancer and heart-related diseases. This film would've been perfect for Alexander Payne in his "Citizen Ruth"-mode.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
JoshuaE.Apr 21, 2006
I laughed for nearly the entire hour and fourty minutes of this film- it was clever, cocky, well-written, sharply edited, and never lagged; it was consistantly humorous and was a real pleasure to watch. Adam Brody and Rob Lowe absolutely I laughed for nearly the entire hour and fourty minutes of this film- it was clever, cocky, well-written, sharply edited, and never lagged; it was consistantly humorous and was a real pleasure to watch. Adam Brody and Rob Lowe absolutely owned, and Aaron Eckhardt is very winning and capable. The "endless appeals system" line still cracks me up.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
JayK.Apr 4, 2006
This was enjoyable for the most part, but the most entertaining aspect of the movie is the unusual concept. I got about as much enjoyment from the preview as I did from the movie. The acting, direction, and script are all mediocre. This was enjoyable for the most part, but the most entertaining aspect of the movie is the unusual concept. I got about as much enjoyment from the preview as I did from the movie. The acting, direction, and script are all mediocre. What's sad is that the source material has so much more potential. But I guarantee that a lot of less critical people will love this film.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
Bluezboy8Apr 5, 2006
It was so refreshing to hear such sharp, intelligent satire delivered superbly by Eckhart, Bright, Bello, and Keochner and supported seamlessly by Lowe, Duvall, Macy and Holmes. I'm going to see this again so I can catch the other half It was so refreshing to hear such sharp, intelligent satire delivered superbly by Eckhart, Bright, Bello, and Keochner and supported seamlessly by Lowe, Duvall, Macy and Holmes. I'm going to see this again so I can catch the other half of the laughs I MISSED while laughing so hard.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
JenMApr 6, 2006
This film is the funniest movie I have seen in years -- maybe ever. It's also thought provoking and tender and just about perfect. I loved it!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
KeriDMay 10, 2006
I can't get over this movie. I wish I could give it a 9.5 - I can't give a 10 because I couldn't believe it was ending when it did - I could have watched it for at least 2 more hours. It's worth it to see just for the I can't get over this movie. I wish I could give it a 9.5 - I can't give a 10 because I couldn't believe it was ending when it did - I could have watched it for at least 2 more hours. It's worth it to see just for the performance of Cameron Bright as the young son. It's so weird how you end up rooting for him to learn spin from his dad.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
RachelS.May 6, 2006
The fact that the man who wrote this movie, Christoher Buckley is Bill Buckley's son, made the movie very amusing to me on a whole other level because he was essentially showing what it was like to be the son of a man who made his The fact that the man who wrote this movie, Christoher Buckley is Bill Buckley's son, made the movie very amusing to me on a whole other level because he was essentially showing what it was like to be the son of a man who made his living by talking, and by presenting very unpopular views.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
6
JimG.Jul 22, 2006
Satire successfully takes a walk-a-mile-in-my-shoes twist.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
RyanS.Mar 13, 2008
I love this movie... I have been smoking for a year now and I needed to stop badly... Thanks to this movie I quit completely. This movie is great, funny, and has a very clever plot line. 10 STARS!!!!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
6
LoisB.Mar 18, 2006
Cute, surface "satire." Some funny bits, but much less here than meets the eye. Too bad, considering the ripe opportunities today. (The last 3 sentences of Maurice F.'s review are lifted directly from Peter Travers' Rolling Stone review. )
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
TomD.Mar 19, 2006
really enjoyed this smart, breezy satire [more relevant than 'stripes', his father's film, less cutting than 'wag the dog']. it's nothing that really sticks to your ribs but I found myself laughing through 70% really enjoyed this smart, breezy satire [more relevant than 'stripes', his father's film, less cutting than 'wag the dog']. it's nothing that really sticks to your ribs but I found myself laughing through 70% of the film, something I can't say for most of the comedies I see these days.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
ShlomoS.Mar 20, 2006
Very smart film -- smart like The Onion is smart. The film is libertarian in its view, with excellent inside Hollywood winks. Highly recommended. How the producer David Sacks found this gem of a script is beyond me, but it is great work.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
KevinR.Mar 24, 2006
Very witty satire that engages the audience the entire way through. Looks to be one of the better comedies of the year.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
JasonF.Mar 26, 2006
Truy defining the meaning of "enough is enough" this film sets out to compel you, in a very humorous way, into making your own decisions in life and to do away with the "childproof lighter" syndrome. Well written wit and a heavy hitting cast Truy defining the meaning of "enough is enough" this film sets out to compel you, in a very humorous way, into making your own decisions in life and to do away with the "childproof lighter" syndrome. Well written wit and a heavy hitting cast make this movie a "must see".… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
RichardG.Mar 27, 2006
very funny and even somewhat meanful in a tongue and cheek way.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
RonL.Apr 10, 2006
Finally--a delicious comedy for thinking adults. Crisp and witty script, great casting and acting. Even the look of washed-out 50s Technicolor is perfect. Reitman is right on.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
5
ArtP.Apr 1, 2006
Eh....As mediocre as potentially great films get. Good acting, good directing, but the story just didn't feel like it went anywhere. I don't know what else to say about it, pure mediocrity.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
MovieFanApr 13, 2006
Solidly funny movie. Great satire. All performances were solid and on the mark. Not a bad job in the film. Nice twist at the end. Last movie Katie Holmes made before becoming TomKat. People say she is throwing away her career. From her OK Solidly funny movie. Great satire. All performances were solid and on the mark. Not a bad job in the film. Nice twist at the end. Last movie Katie Holmes made before becoming TomKat. People say she is throwing away her career. From her OK performance, it would seem that she didn't have much to throw. Nice eye candy, and that was about it. Would rec seeing it, would consider TIVO'ing it.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
RaniC.Apr 16, 2006
Everyone should be educated about the 'anything to sell a product to the unsuspecting or duped consumer' strategy that most big coorporations employ. Usually it is portrayed in documentary fashion. It was refreshing to see this Everyone should be educated about the 'anything to sell a product to the unsuspecting or duped consumer' strategy that most big coorporations employ. Usually it is portrayed in documentary fashion. It was refreshing to see this theme actually set to a story with a plot and actors. The story was good and so were the actors. Definitely worth watching. This movie handled a depressing theme without bringing me down.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
AnthonyS.Apr 17, 2006
funny how i thought of exactly the same score as metacrtic of 71 for this movie. its a well made debut for director jason reitman, though there are very few belly laughs and never really achieve status as a great piece of satire. its funny how i thought of exactly the same score as metacrtic of 71 for this movie. its a well made debut for director jason reitman, though there are very few belly laughs and never really achieve status as a great piece of satire. its everything you already know, compiled with a likable cast and smooth pacing. i was annoyed by some symptoms common with young first time directors, but thats part of the game. in the end, i don't think its satifying enough to require your movie money. wait and rent the for the dvd instead.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
JohnM.Apr 17, 2006
Right or wrong, you can't argue with the tact and execution of this movie.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
5
CarlosA.Apr 22, 2006
My wife (ex-smoker going on 10 months) took me to see this, and it promised a whole lot in the first drags, but then it was nothing but filter. The protagonist has no real journey, and the style gets stale soon after. The warning label on My wife (ex-smoker going on 10 months) took me to see this, and it promised a whole lot in the first drags, but then it was nothing but filter. The protagonist has no real journey, and the style gets stale soon after. The warning label on this one should read: Real satire should be dangerous to your health, and this one ain't.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
MarcK.Apr 29, 2006
Wasn't sure whether to see this film, because although it got a high MetaCritic score, I typically don't like biting satire in movies. However, I liked "Thank You For Smoking" exactly because it was NOT so biting! Had it's Wasn't sure whether to see this film, because although it got a high MetaCritic score, I typically don't like biting satire in movies. However, I liked "Thank You For Smoking" exactly because it was NOT so biting! Had it's funny moments, but wasn't overbearing or condescending, like "Wag the Dog" for example, which is what I was expecting this film to be, and it thankfully was not. I was glad I saw it, and it's definitely worth a look.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
ScottR.May 2, 2006
The worst thing I can say about this is that it is way too short. I wanted it to go on much longer. But I guess movies are like theater "leave 'em wanting more". It is about an nour and 40 minutes and since so many of the characters The worst thing I can say about this is that it is way too short. I wanted it to go on much longer. But I guess movies are like theater "leave 'em wanting more". It is about an nour and 40 minutes and since so many of the characters (and they are characters) talk real fast it seems even faster. I wish there were more smart literate comedies like this.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
YZhangMay 26, 2006
Smart and entertaining. A brilliant cast!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
MattY.Aug 12, 2006
smart, funny and incredibly well written!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
AlistairD.Oct 15, 2006
Thought it was going to be funny going into the movie, but it was a lot more interesting than thought it would be whilst still keeping humour
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
BillyS.Apr 14, 2006
With a terrific opening credit sequence to the tune "smoke, smoke, smoke that cigarette" and a cast that includes Robert Duval, William H. Macy, J.K. Simmons and Aaron Eckhart as a 8x10 glossy lobbyist who can sell anything and Sam Elliott With a terrific opening credit sequence to the tune "smoke, smoke, smoke that cigarette" and a cast that includes Robert Duval, William H. Macy, J.K. Simmons and Aaron Eckhart as a 8x10 glossy lobbyist who can sell anything and Sam Elliott in a priceless performance as the over the hill Marlboro Man, Thank You For Smoking takes on big tobacco and politics with smart writing and sharp dialouge that sets up numerous possibilities that could go for the satirical jugular but hold back just enough as not to be libelous, playing it safe with a father/son sub-story that keeps the claws drawn back without drawing any real blood. All in all, a very impressive debut from Jason Reitman who shows off his directing genes from his father Ivan. Like Sophia Coppolla, you'll want to keep an eye on this young directors career.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
DerrickA.Apr 16, 2006
LOL comedy of the month. The showdown between Nick Naylor and Sen. Finisterre was outstanding. Hail to the smokers!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
JayS.Apr 29, 2006
This movie is excellent and unapologetic which it rightfully should be. It asks the question: If a person purchases a dried crushed plant rolled up in paper, lights it and inhales, then feels bad sometime afterwards, who is at fault? The This movie is excellent and unapologetic which it rightfully should be. It asks the question: If a person purchases a dried crushed plant rolled up in paper, lights it and inhales, then feels bad sometime afterwards, who is at fault? The answer seems obvious but our society has responded incorrectly for many many years. What do you think? Watching this movie helps to clarify for those unsure of the answer.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
MN.Dec 18, 2007
I saw this movie by chance the other night so I hadn't heard anything about it prior. I loved this film, I consider it one of the best comedies I've seen in ages. Brilliant cast and very clever.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
RirenJan 28, 2007
One of the funniest movies in years, Thank You For Smoking makes its points and pricks everyone with them. Almost every role is immaculately casted, especially the leads, with the actors providing the right doses of sympathy, frustration and One of the funniest movies in years, Thank You For Smoking makes its points and pricks everyone with them. Almost every role is immaculately casted, especially the leads, with the actors providing the right doses of sympathy, frustration and venom along the offensively hilarious plot. The tobacco industry's lies and doubletalk are only the premise from which larger-than-life characters rise to entertain through surprising exercises in lack of compassion, egomania and the occasional exhibition of real human weakness. Best, Thank You For Smoking doesn't hate anyone involved in its subject matter. Like Kevin Smith's Dogma, it is humanistic enough to entertain, even at the expense of its themes - and this ultimately gregarious notion makes a more profound statement about the treatment of tobacco in modern society than scathing films like Crash do about bigotry.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
Lopez17Sep 8, 2010
From 1575 to the present, there have always been those who have opposed the use of tobacco from Mexico to the Ottoman Empire to Bavaria, Kursachsen, and certain parts of Austria in the late 1600s. Some form of Government in some part of theFrom 1575 to the present, there have always been those who have opposed the use of tobacco from Mexico to the Ottoman Empire to Bavaria, Kursachsen, and certain parts of Austria in the late 1600s. Some form of Government in some part of the world has always tried to ban or outlaw the use of tobacco. In the 1500s the Catholic Pope Urban VII in particular threatened to excommunicate anyone who "took tobacco in the porchway of or inside a church, whether it be by chewing it, smoking it with a pipe or sniffing it in powdered form through the nose". The Ottoman sultan Murad IV prohibited smoking in his empire in 1633 smoking was also banned in Berlin in 1723, in Königsberg in 1742, and in Stettin in 1744. These bans were repealed in the revolutions of 1848. The first building in the world to have a smoke-free policy was the Old Government Building in Wellington, New Zealand in 1876 this was due to the fact that the building is the second largest wooden building ever constructed and it was out of concern that smoking may cause a fire. From then to now there are groups that fight to have cigarettes removed from gas stations, supermarkets etc. Then there are those who promote Big Tobacco and there products. They lobby s to speak on behalf of some of the worlds most powerful tobacco industries men like Nick Naylor(Aaron Eckhart) the protagonist of Jason Reitman's feature film debut "Thank you for Smoking" where as some people, in Eckhart's biting narration states, "Michael Jordan plays ball, Charles Manson kills people I talk" and indeed he does. "Thank you for not Smoking is not only a dark and searing satire on the anti-smoking issue it is also an intelligent and thought provoking film that asks you to ask yourself and ask others the ideas surrounding the big tobacco business and there so called merchants of death. However, ask yourself this, is it truly right to take away a persons right to smoke? Jason Reitman's feature film debut "Thank you for Smoking" is a cynical, searing, hilarious, and thought provoking look into the world of politics and the men and women who occupy the seats on both sides of the table, so to speak. Reitman(Son of veteran director Ivan Reitman) adapted screenplay from Christopher Buckley's 1994 satirical novel of the same name is a film that is as intelligent as it is biting this film is a deeply funny look at how one man(Aaron Eckhart) seeks to promote cigarettes. Reitman shows he has a real true talent for writing and directing, something his father Ivan lacks. Reitman is an intelligent director and an even more intelligent writer he knows how to flesh out each and every character at there duly appointed time he knows how to write smart, engaging, thought provoking dialogue and cheerfully offensive dialogue that makes you laugh as well as think. Satire is a tricky territory and Reitman is a genius when it comes to this tricky territory he knows how to play out the ideals on the anti-smoking issue to its full extent while still maintaining a strong sense of humor and political reason all the while the audiences is sitting there thinking and laughing . As it should be "Thank you for Smoking" targets two specific audiences the political opinionated and everyone else those who have strong political opinions(much like me) will either love this film, hate this film, or just downright despises it(I know some politicians who would really dislike this film). For those who are not politically opinionated will love this film in its entirety with its Delightfully unscrupulous characters, witty and intelligent dialogue and abundance of laughs this is the right ticket for anyone who likes to see people make fun of other people make fun of the people who run the country. I love this film, I love everything about this film I love the characters, the cynical sense of humor and the gloriously unscrupulous cynicism that this film unleashes on the anti- smoking issue. "Thank you for Smoking" is one of the best political satires I have seen since Stanley Kubrickâ… Expand
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8
ZiggyStardustJun 16, 2011
Very smart movie, very well written, with great acting and superb humour (the type only a few can enjoy). Really sucks you into the whole world. Definitely worth a watch!
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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4
Tss5078Jan 25, 2015
Lobbyists represent everything that is wrong with our country. Instead of voting for the common good of the people, they are paid in voters and campaign contributions, to vote the way big business wishes them to vote. The result is laws thatLobbyists represent everything that is wrong with our country. Instead of voting for the common good of the people, they are paid in voters and campaign contributions, to vote the way big business wishes them to vote. The result is laws that benefit the few and hurt the many. Thank You For Smoking takes an in depth look at one of these lobbyists, who works for big tobacco. In a satirical way, the film shows how this man is able to achieve his companies goals through bending the facts, bribery, and out right lying in a way that is completely legal under our system of government. Aaron Eckhart is terrific, which will come as little surprise to many, however the film was anything but. Like most films, Thank You For Smoking has it's moments, but overall the film is one short scene that just repeats it's self over and over again. The situations are different and the players are different, but the arguments and agendas are always the same. After watching two hours of the same thing over and over again, I was more than done with this film. No matter how charismatic the actor may be, the fact is that what lobbyists do isn't terribly interesting. It's one meeting and argument after another and the film just completely runs around in circles. The film was critically acclaimed for Eckhart's performance, but nothing else. Some critics think that one outstanding performance makes a film worth seeing, but I don't. Aaron Eckhart is an outstanding actor, who has been great in many other films that are worth seeing. Thank You For Smoking is nothing more than an insult to the American people, that runs forty minutes too long, and just goes around in circles, it's not something I'd recommend wasting your time on.… Expand
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9
beingryanjudeAug 25, 2014
With an incredible debut, Jason Reitman proves his place amongst today's acclaimed filmmakers. Thank You for Smoking is clever and sly on all accounts. No matter what side you're on, you won't regret partaking in the dispute.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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8
SpangleJan 10, 2015
First off, I want to comment on the incredible cast, both on paper and in practice. Aaron Eckhart, Cameron Bright, Maria Bello, Katie Holmes, David Koechner, William H. Macy, JK Simmons, Rob Lowe, Robert Duvall, and Kim Dickens, are someFirst off, I want to comment on the incredible cast, both on paper and in practice. Aaron Eckhart, Cameron Bright, Maria Bello, Katie Holmes, David Koechner, William H. Macy, JK Simmons, Rob Lowe, Robert Duvall, and Kim Dickens, are some pretty impressive names to be cast all together in a film and in this one, they are all stellar. All of them really embody their roles and manage to leave you wanting more. In the lead role, Eckhart is phenomenal. Hell, phenomenal barely touches the surface of how good he is here. He does a great job playing the charismatic lead here and his performance is truly the icing on this cake. He is a wonder in this film. I cannot say enough about how good he was. The direction from Jason Reitman is also very good here, as is the screenplay also written by him. A biting satire of the tobacco industry, the film winds up being very funny, touching, and intriguing, in large part thanks to the direction and the writing. Overall, Thank You for Smoking is a very good film that works in every area imaginable.… Expand
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9
axelkochSep 10, 2012
Film satire at its best. Jason Reitman's debut is even better than the hilarious 'Juno' and 'Up In The Air'. An Oscar for the best adapted screnplay would've definitely been appropriate. Great cast till the supporting actors and a score thatFilm satire at its best. Jason Reitman's debut is even better than the hilarious 'Juno' and 'Up In The Air'. An Oscar for the best adapted screnplay would've definitely been appropriate. Great cast till the supporting actors and a score that accompanies the film in an very exhilarant way. 'Thank You For Smoking' is a great film about business and life starring an really cool Aaron Eckhart as the main actor. Definitely worth to see if you liked films like 'Up In The Air'!… Expand
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8
Compi24Apr 20, 2020
"Thank You For Smoking" couldn't be a better representation of Jason Reitman's talents. It's quick, tight, sharp-witted and thematically potent. What better film to start off a promising career in filmmaking with?

Now, I'll admit that, when"Thank You For Smoking" couldn't be a better representation of Jason Reitman's talents. It's quick, tight, sharp-witted and thematically potent. What better film to start off a promising career in filmmaking with?

Now, I'll admit that, when it comes to satire I'm all over the map. For me, it all depends on the world you build, the entertainment value present in your characters and the message you're trying to mete out. This one ticked the boxes for me in nearly every regard. Everything is so snappy and bright, with a devious, yet charismatic narrator and protagonist guiding us through all the ideas and relationships flying before our eyes. Some have called the events and scenes in the film "episodic" or "detached from one another" and I'd have to disagree. Though some events are definitely more A-plot oriented, the ones that aren't still help facilitate the overarching ideas that the film's trying to put forth. That's where this movie got me. The musings on personal responsibility, freedom and rhetorical warfare resonated with me in a way I didn't expect they all would. It really was a breezy, fantastic watch overall.… Expand
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8
TheWalrus2000Mar 18, 2013
One of the most intellegent films of all time, presenting a hilarious performance by Aaron Eckhart and yet another great jump for Jason Reitman. It's no Juno but it'll do.
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7
python2000Aug 1, 2013
Very, very clever comedy which tells things the way they would be boring. The funniest scenes in the movie are definitely the Merchants of Death arguments about how many people they have killed each.
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10
hawaiian-shirtDec 7, 2016
This movie is satire done right. It manages to pull all the strings to break conventions on how we see corporations and activists to add a nuance we (intentionally or not) erase from other human. Most people expect the movie to demonize theThis movie is satire done right. It manages to pull all the strings to break conventions on how we see corporations and activists to add a nuance we (intentionally or not) erase from other human. Most people expect the movie to demonize the tabacco company and humanize the people fighting it, while it does the complete opposite. Maybe selling cigarettes is just a job and fighting its consumption just a cheap political trick? This movie will make uncomfortable all people who have a strict, black and white vision of the world, and will explain that it's 'wrong' to humanize human you disagree with.

If you have a more nuanced vision of the world, it's an hilarious movie.… Expand
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6
amheretojudgeNov 2, 2018
to walk over that fine line between humor and drama..

Thank You For Smoking Reitman's comedy satire about smoke and ashes is a home run for him since it achieves to walk over that fine line between humor and drama, something that greatto walk over that fine line between humor and drama..

Thank You For Smoking

Reitman's comedy satire about smoke and ashes is a home run for him since it achieves to walk over that fine line between humor and drama, something that great filmmakers have failed to do so. And he has done it in here with such fluidity that it leaves you in an awe of it. The story itself demands lots of monologues, arguments and logistics that are not statistical but social. And to write dialogues and conversations whilst delivering all of that is like climbing a slope against the wind. But Reitman has done it, and that sweetens his victory more.

One of the best bits of the feature is of course the relationship of the protagonist with his son. Since he has to explain all his higher ideal concepts in the most literal and simple way, this is the window where the writer is basically speaking with the audience in Layman's terms to advance the storyline. And yes it does get mechanical very quickly along with the structure of the script, but this corporate world that you are about to explore endorses it before you even go in, hence it is mandatory to feel like such.

And with bits of humor, one liners and sensational point of view through which Reitman argues with you, it is literally hard to argue back. Now amidst all these superness of the feature, the plot gets rusty within first few minutes as it practically screams the entire trajectory out on a podium before it even hits the screen that extracts the heat from the soul. Eckhart is convincing just as his logics are and along with him rides an amazing supporting cast like Simmons, Macy, Holmes, Elliot and Duvall and they all stand up to their caliber and deliver unflinchingly. Thank You For Smoking feels more like a sitcom than a picture, but hey, it works either way.… Expand
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9
peshcoJul 8, 2018
This is a good movie that is worth the watch. The only reason I give it 9/10 is that the viewer was reduced to a 13-ish old kid who sometimes asked a complicated well-constructed question and receives a short expected answer. Everybody playedThis is a good movie that is worth the watch. The only reason I give it 9/10 is that the viewer was reduced to a 13-ish old kid who sometimes asked a complicated well-constructed question and receives a short expected answer. Everybody played masterfully though. Some of my favorite actors played in this movie - William Macy, Rob Lowe, J. K. Simmons and David Koechner.… Expand
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5
KenROct 14, 2020
This slickly produced movie tries hard to seem impartial - with a dig at both sides of the ‘for and against’, health and moral aspects of the cigarette game. While it’s smart (at times maybe too smart for its own good) like the ‘Spin’ DrsThis slickly produced movie tries hard to seem impartial - with a dig at both sides of the ‘for and against’, health and moral aspects of the cigarette game. While it’s smart (at times maybe too smart for its own good) like the ‘Spin’ Drs themselves, it falls between the impossible task of trying to please everyone (a sure formula for failure, and pleasing no-one). Performances are mostly good and its rough-edged script is both crude and acerbic. With several perverse situations (there’s not one decent person to be found) making it mostly suitable for those trendy types, who feel they have all the answers to anything. It’s like an advertiser’s handbook on how to sell everything to people who virtually need nothing – or a politicians guide at how to say everything while committing to nothing.… Expand
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9
Shrike45Oct 11, 2018
I absolutely love the message presented by the film. Think for yourself but even in the end, the main character notes at times that can really be detrimental in situations. And even despite his turn around, that leaves you with a firmI absolutely love the message presented by the film. Think for yourself but even in the end, the main character notes at times that can really be detrimental in situations. And even despite his turn around, that leaves you with a firm understanding of how many people in this country, politics and all, can come to different conclusions than us. well-scripted and camera shots were great. Wish the score was a little better, or more prominent but overall a great movie to enjoy as well as "learn from"… Expand
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7
DawdlingPoetNov 24, 2021
This is clearly quite an emotive topic and so its not a 'comedy' movie that equates to slapstick visual comedy, although it is certainly amusing in a dry, dark way in the way that it pokes fun of and highlights spin doctoring and in a sense,This is clearly quite an emotive topic and so its not a 'comedy' movie that equates to slapstick visual comedy, although it is certainly amusing in a dry, dark way in the way that it pokes fun of and highlights spin doctoring and in a sense, part of the political system in the US. I don't smoke myself, of course im aware of the health implications and I've never had an interest in taking up the hobby but the cast in this movie and what I'd heard before watching it in terms of it being a well made movie, intrigued me enough to begrudgingly add it to my rental list, so when I got it I wasn't entirely convinced if I'd enjoy it, if it was a movie about being pro-smoking but I don't think its only about that issue, its more general. Nick Naylor argues that people are entitled to freedom of choice and he tries to explain this to his son, although other parties try to paint things in a different light. I'm certainly all for the pre-choice school of thinking or what-not, I know in the UK it can feel like we live in a nanny state so to speak and given some of what goes on in this movie you can see how strongly some people feel about the issue. In the movie, Nick meets up with a few other people who work for other such semi-despised industries on a weekly basis,such as someone who works for the alcohol industry and so on and between them they complain about the grief they receive for being involved in said industries.

There is definitely a dry wit to this movie, though it clearly won't be to everyones taste, I thought that it seemed quite clever in some respects, with Nick being very sure where he stands in terms of his moral beliefs and his career. The actions of some people to try and quiet him may make you think and I think it highlights that perhaps things aren't as black and white as you may presume, although by no means would I ever condone anyone smoking as a good thing to do. I thought this was a good movie with a decent cast, including William H Macy as Ortolan Finistirre, a senator based in Vermont (which Nick makes fun of by pointing out that Vermont is well known for their cheese which can lead to high cholesterol and that in turn has been scientifically linked to deaths) who is fervently against all that he believes Nick stands for and also Katie Holmes, who plays a journalist that seduces Nick in a bid to discover details about some of the people he confides in. Nick himself is played by Aaron Eckhart, who portrays the very public pro-tobacco hate figure quite convincingly, seeming quite charming and believable in what he says. I also liked the portrayal of Nicks son, Joey, who is quite philosophical and challenging towards his dads way of thinking and who isclearly genuinely interested to see for himself what he does for a living, how he goes about defending such an industry, how he presents himself in court and so on, presenting a dilemma for Nick at times while its also clear that Nick very much loves his son and you believe he wouldn't want to over promote smoking as a hobby to him due to the health implications, yet he is very steadfast in terms of not speaking badly about the companies that he represents. It certainly makes you think, with some plot twists that again put things in perspective and I think in the end neither the pro-tobacco or the anti-tabacco sides come off particularly brilliantly. I suppose its more an exercise in debate, morals and actions, which probably sounds pretty dry but there are some witty elements that should bring up a chuckle or two in passing, though its very much a dry, dark comedy as I say.

Overall, I felt that this was quite a witty movie with a script that had been well thought out, so yes I would recommend it, although I feel that this isn't a movie that everyone will necessarily automatically enjoy. If it sounds like something that would appeal to you then check it out, otherwise maybe wait for it to come on TV but generally yes I'd recommend it. I couldn't think of a great deal to say about it, its one of those movies that you have to see for yourself and make your own conclusions about perhaps.… Expand
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10
Pluto744Jun 22, 2021
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10
Xenophobe114Jun 25, 2021
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10
Stagger74Jul 15, 2021
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