Movie spotlight
What, No Cigarettes
There is movement afoot in Edgar Kennedy's house, where he lives with his wife Florence, and reluctantly with Florence's mother and brother. Without Edgar's consent, Florence, mother and brother have decided that Edgar will temporarily move in with brother, while mother will temporarily move in with Florence, giving mother's room to her visiting brother, Wilbur. Uncle Wilbur, an entrepreneur, promises to set brother up in one of his companies, making Edgar's dream come true of getting brother out of his house. But chain smoking Uncle Wilbur vows to renege on his promise unless Edgar can get him some cigarettes after he himself runs out. Edgar may have some problems as there is a cigarette shortage, every smoker clamoring for what few supplies there are. If Edgar can't get cigarettes, he may have to resort to Plan B, which may not be as easy as he imagines. Regardless, lazy brother may do whatever he can to thwart Edgar's plans if only to remain unemployed and in Edgar's house.
Insights
Plot Summary
This short film, produced by the U.S. War Department, highlights the importance of cigarettes as morale boosters for soldiers during World War II. It shows how cigarettes are distributed and enjoyed by troops in various theaters of operation, emphasizing their role in providing a brief respite and comfort amidst the hardships of war.
Critical Reception
As a wartime propaganda short, "What, No Cigarettes?" was not widely reviewed by mainstream critics in the traditional sense. Its primary audience was military personnel and the general public in Allied nations, serving to inform and bolster morale. Its effectiveness is best judged by its historical context and intended purpose.
What Reviewers Say
A poignant snapshot of soldier life during WWII.
Effectively conveys the significance of small comforts in wartime.
Serves as a historical document of troop morale and distribution efforts.
Google audience: Information regarding Google user reviews for this specific short film from 1945 is not available.
Fun Fact
The film was produced by the U.S. War Department as part of a series aimed at keeping the public informed and maintaining morale during World War II, showcasing the immense logistical effort involved in supplying even seemingly small comforts to troops overseas.
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