Six iconic smoking scenes in films

The 88th anniversary of the Oscars is due to take place on Sunday 28 February, to mark the celebration of the art of films, we have listed six of the most iconic smoking scenes shown in films.

James Bond – Dr No (1962)

The first that launched the James Bond saga, the audience is introduced to Sean Connery’s take of the British Spy as he lights up a cigarette during a game of poker, with his iconic statement that is used throughout the entire film saga: “Bond, James Bond.”

Pulp Fiction (1994)

A cult classic in one of the many iconic scenes in the film, we see Vincent (John Travolta) and Mia (Uma Thurman) are sitting in a restaurant, throughout this scene both characters are smoking cigarettes, as Mia discusses how great comfortable silence was.

Basic Instinct (1992)

Catherine Tramell (Sharon Stone) is a mysterious crime novelist character who seduces the crime detective Nick Curran (Michael Douglas), who is investigating her after the murder of a rockstar. During one of the most iconic scenes from the film. Miss Tramell smokes a cigarette, as she is interrogated by homicide detectives, whilst not wearing underwear.

Fight Club (1999)

A cult classic we are introduced to one of the characters Marla Singer (Helena Bonham Carter) in a cancer support group, smoking a cigarette. The scene demonstrates the skilful editing of the filmmakers as the scene is slowed down and the sound is emphasised, to depict the main character’s feelings of annoyance towards her.

The Good, the Bad and the Ugly (1966)

The final duel scene Clint Eastwood’s character Blondie (Man with No Name) and Tuco (Eli Wallach) is at a standoff with Angel Eyes (Lee Van Cleef). In this scene Clint Eastwood repeatedly shoots and kills Angel Eyes all whilst still smoking his cigar.

Grease (1978)

Two iconic smoking scenes are shown in this film, when we are introduced to the “greaser” version of Danny Zuko (John Travolta) smoking a cigarette whilst chatting up a female student.

Later in the film we see Sandy’s (Olivia Newton-John) transformation as she smokes a cigarette approaching Danny, during one of the most iconic scenes in Grease.