¡Donde hay humo... hay risas!
Brooklyn, verano de 1987. Un grupo de personas frecuenta el estanco de su barrio. Auggie Wren (Harvey Keitel), el estanquero, es el gran confidente de todos ellos. La rocambolesca historia de cómo consiguió su cámara fotográfica y de por qué se decidió a elaborar su singular colección de fotografías -el mismo encuadre de la casa de enfrente a lo largo de 14 años- le dará por fin un argumento a Paul Benjamin (William Hurt), prestigioso novelista en crisis. Paul, a su vez, ayudará a Rashid (Harold Perrineaud Jr.), un adolescente negro algo desorientado, en la búsqueda de su padre, que resulta ser un modesto mecánico (Whitaker) que intenta rehacer su vida. El círculo vital se cierra cuando estos contactos humanos implican de tal modo al propio Auggie que le obligan a asumir su olvidada responsabilidad respecto a Ruby (Stockard Channing), una antigua novia con la que tuvo una hija (Ashley Judd), que ahora, ya adolescente, pasa por un momento muy difícil.
Cast completo de Smoke
William Hurt
Paul Benjamin
William Hurt delivered a nuanced and understated performance as Paul Benjamin in the 1995 drama "Smoke," directed by Wayne Wang. Hurt's portrayal of the character, a Brooklyn cigar store proprietor, is a masterclass in quiet intensity and introspection. His Paul is a man of routine and reflection, a writer suffering from writer's block, who finds solace in the steady rhythm of his daily life and the camaraderie within his multicultural neighborhood. Hurt brings a sense of gravitas and thoughtfulness to the role, allowing his expressive eyes and subtle shifts in facial expressions to convey the depth of Paul's internal struggles and the profound impact of the relationships he forms, particularly with Rashid, played by Harold Perrineau, a young man who changes his life. Hurt's performance is a testament to his ability to inhabit a character's skin seamlessly, creating a character that resonates with authenticity and warmth. His interactions with the other characters are genuine and heartfelt, making Paul Benjamin a memorable figure in the tapestry of New York stories.
Giancarlo Esposito
1st OTB Man / Tommy
Giancarlo Esposito delivers a nuanced and memorable performance as Tommy "Birdman" Basilio, also known as the 1st OTB Man, in the 1995 film "Smoke," directed by Wayne Wang. Esposito brings a magnetic intensity to the role, portraying Tommy with a charismatic yet streetwise demeanor that captures the essence of his character's complex nature. Tommy, a former drug addict turned successful bookie, is a man caught between two worlds—his past struggles with addiction and his present aspirations for a stable life. Esposito's performance is layered with subtle hints of vulnerability and ambition, as he navigates the character's relationships with empathy and understanding, particularly in his interactions with Harvey Keitel's character, Auggie Wren. His portrayal of Tommy is a standout element of the film, showcasing his ability to convey the depth of a man seeking redemption and a fresh start, all while maintaining an air of the unpredictable edge that defines his character's survival instincts on the streets of Brooklyn.
