Thank You for Smoking (2005)

Satirical comedy follows the machinations of Big Tobacco’s chief spokesman, Nick Naylor, who spins on behalf of cigarettes while trying to remain a role model for his twelve-year-old son. (IMDb)

Eckhart’s Nick is a slippery spokesman for smoking that you can’t help but root for in spite of his “flexible morals”, thanks to his charismatic quick-talking. The film follows suit, presenting with wicked wit and entertaining editing (see the film pauses and brief inner narrations) its darkly humourous characters (see the outrageous Merchants of Death and Simmons’ abrasive B.R.) and fresh subject matter. Nick’s more serious father conundrum could have been taken a step further though.

7.5/10 (Really Good)

The Outsiders (1983)

The rivalry between two gangs, the poor Greasers and the rich Socs, only heats up when one gang member kills a member of the other. (IMDb)

The story and characters here definitely have their youthful charm, with the film’s grimy aesthetic and dark plot twists adding some grit. Technically, however, the film is hit or miss. Dialogue delivery (and there’s a lot of it) is suspect and causes some scenes to really drag, and the rollicking soundtrack, while at times enjoyable, at others blares on through conversations and contrasts with what feels like should be somber moments. An engaging story that could have been presented better.

6.5/10 (Alright)