Thank You for Smoking

I saw this movie last night. I wasn't impressed. I thought it was way over the top and really unoriginal. The movie follows the adventures of a slick spineless tobacco lobbyist, as he tries to defend the tobacco industry's sliding public image. According to this movie, lobbyist spend most of their time in front of television cameras trying to make a name for themselves. In truth, most lobbyists are under-the-radar political operatives who try to influence the political system while staying relatively nameless. The producers of this movie didn't seem to understand this. The main character was overplayed - a subtler portrayal could have been more effective - no one can believe that this guy could get away with the arguments he makes. Perhaps I missed the point - after all, this was suppose to be a satire. Still, satire doesn't have to be ridiculous in every aspect to be entertaining or effective.

Atleast the theater served pizza and beer.