Smoking / No Smoking

The film is based on two plays by Alan Ayckbourn, 'The Separate Tables' and 'A Family Affair,' presented as two distinct but interconnected films. It explores alternate realities and the consequences of choices made in life, particularly in relationships and career paths. The narrative follows characters as they navigate different life trajectories based on pivotal decisions.

Smoking / No Smoking was critically acclaimed for its innovative narrative structure and Resnais's masterful direction. Critics praised the complex exploration of themes like fate, choice, and regret, as well as the strong performances from the ensemble cast. The film is considered a significant work in Resnais's filmography and a unique cinematic experiment.

• A brilliant and ambitious cinematic experiment exploring parallel lives.

• Resnais masterfully uses the two-film structure to delve into the nature of choice and consequence.

• The performances are excellent, grounding the complex narrative.

Google audience: Audience reception for 'Smoking / No Smoking' is not readily available through aggregated Google user reviews, making it difficult to summarize specific likes or dislikes.

Nominated for the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival.

Alain Resnais decided to shoot the two films, 'Smoking' and 'No Smoking,' simultaneously, despite them being presented as separate entities, to maintain continuity and efficiency.