
Smoking 1993
In Alain Resnais' 1993 drama-comedy *Smoking*, the boundaries between fate and choice blur as two actors embody no fewer than eighteen distinct characters in a philosophical exploration of alternate lives.
Director: Alain Resnais
Cast



Frequently Asked Questions
What is Smoking (1993) about?
*Smoking* follows two actors who play eighteen roles, weaving a story around the hypothetical impact of one small decision. The film questions how different our lives could be if we had chosen differently at pivotal moments.
Who directed Smoking?
Alain Resnais, the renowned French filmmaker known for his innovative and intellectually stimulating cinema.
Who stars in Smoking?
The film stars Sabine Azéma and Pierre Arditi, two of France's most celebrated actors, alongside Peter Hudson.
Is Smoking (1993) worth watching?
*Smoking* is a fascinating exploration of fate and choice, ideal for fans of cerebral dramas and witty comedies. While its unrated status leaves room for interpretation, its layered storytelling and strong performances make it a rewarding watch for those who appreciate Resnais' unique vision.
How long is Smoking?
The film runs for 139 minutes, offering ample time to dive into its rich narrative and character shifts.
About Smoking (1993) — A Philosophical Comedy About Fate and the Choices We Never Made
In Alain Resnais' 1993 drama-comedy *Smoking*, the boundaries between fate and choice blur as two actors embody no fewer than eighteen distinct characters in a philosophical exploration of alternate lives. The film hinges on a deceptively simple yet profound question: what if a single moment—lighting a cigarette—had reshaped everything? Set against a backdrop of elegant ambiguity, Resnais crafts a narrative that dances between romance and existential humor, where every role shift feels like a new thread in life's unpredictable tapestry. With its sharp wit and cerebral charm, *Smoking* invites viewers to ponder the roads not taken.
Sabine Azéma and Pierre Arditi deliver a tour de force, seamlessly transitioning between identities with playful precision. The film's genre-blending style—part drama, part comedy, part romantic reverie—creates an atmosphere that's both cerebral and deeply human. Resnais' direction ensures that even the most abstract ideas feel grounded in relatable emotion, making *Smoking (1993)* a unique cinematic puzzle worth piecing together.