Cold Turkey 1971
"See the hilarious BATTLE OF THE BUTT!"
In Norman Lear's sharp-witted 1971 comedy Cold Turkey, a determined small-town reverend ignites an ambitious campaign to help his Iowa community quit smoking through a month-long contest.
Director: Norman Lear
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cold Turkey (1971) about?
Cold Turkey follows a determined reverend as he spearheads a smoking cessation contest in his Iowa town, offering a cash prize for anyone who can go a month without tobacco. When a group of tobacco industry insiders gets wind of the challenge, they launch a series of underhanded tactics to derail the participants' progress and ensure the town fails. The film explores themes of willpower, community, and corporate interference with sharp humor and heart.
Who directed Cold Turkey?
Cold Turkey was directed by Norman Lear, a pioneering figure in American television and film known for his sharp social commentary and comedic storytelling.
Who stars in Cold Turkey?
The film stars Dick Van Dyke as the determined reverend, alongside Pippa Scott, Tom Poston, Edward Everett Horton, Bob Elliott, and Vincent Gardenia in scene-stealing roles.
Is Cold Turkey (1971) worth watching?
Though not widely remembered today, Cold Turkey is a hidden gem for fans of 1970s comedies and satire. Its blend of humor and social critique, led by Dick Van Dyke's likable performance, makes it a charming time capsule of its era. If you enjoy underrated films with a message, it's well worth a watch.
How long is Cold Turkey?
Cold Turkey has a runtime of 99 minutes.
🎥 Trailer
Cold Turkey (1971): The Underrated Satirical Comedy That Takes on Big Tobacco
In Norman Lear's sharp-witted 1971 comedy Cold Turkey, a determined small-town reverend ignites an ambitious campaign to help his Iowa community quit smoking through a month-long contest. With a cash prize on the line, the town rallies together—until a shadowy alliance of tobacco executives schemes to sabotage their efforts with every trick in the book. As frustration and cravings mount, the once-united townsfolk face a test of both willpower and sanity.
Dick Van Dyke leads the stellar cast with his trademark charm, supported by a hilarious ensemble that includes Tom Poston, Vincent Gardenia, and Edward Everett Horton. Directed by the legendary Norman Lear, this satirical gem blends lighthearted humor with biting social commentary, capturing the absurdity of corporate influence and the quirks of communal resilience. Packed with wit and warmth, Cold Turkey is a nostalgic yet timely reminder of how far people will go for a worthy cause—and the lengths others will take to stand in their way.