The Pack

"Smoking / Non-Smoking," is a stunning drama with clear and resonant allusions to the film classic "12 Angry Men." Here we have angry jurors who carry into the case being deliberated elements of their own lives. As questions of guilt or innocence are argued—Who is responsible for this man's death of lung cancer, presumably by secondhand smoke?—we are drawn into larger and larger ones about responsibility. Stereotypes dissolve in the characterizations and complexities of the issues, which become an inextricable weaving of personal, social and political ones dramatically alive in the dialog.

There are adroit cuts between the jurors deliberations, the trial and the lives of all involved, along with rich manipulation of imagery. Excellently written, directed and acted, the jurors are strong, carefully etched characters. As in "12 Angry Men," exchanges between them move from jury room to the rest room and back. In one, we get keen-edged engagement; in the other, moments of off-hand conversation that reveal nuances of character. There is a sophisticated use of imagery by director Alyssa Bennett, with one apt and meaningful visual allusion to "12 Angry Men"—which I won't tell. "Smoking / Non-Smoking" is provocative and intelligent, side-steps moralizing and leaves us with essential, inescapable questions about responsibility for ourselves and each other.

The Pack is a truly unique film.

It tackles tough subjects making the viewer question politics, big business and family dynamics.

The complex concept/controversy over smoking is brought beautifully to life with very compelling direction and performances.

I find it remarkable how the film is able to thoroughly engage us emotionally and intellectually. It makes us question our roles in society and our personal ethics.

It's a film that you will always remember.

You will find yourself taking about The Pack for years to come.

Partial to these actors - but aside from Elisabeth Moss's sweet cameo, Lucie Arnaz is the women to watch - playing a tough character, Roger Robinson (Tony Award at 70something years old for Joe Turner's Come and Gone) RIP, is soulful, poetic , Zach Galligan plays against his Gremlins persona, Jennifer McCabe is stunning, Adam Ferrara is moving and strong, Fiona Choi is lovely! Ryan Homchick as the son walks the line as a son with conflicted issues and love, Michael Pemberton pulls rabbits out of a hat, Carlos Leon - Madonna's X is an actor who should have a more of a career, Molly Culver is strong and tough, Angela Pietropinto (The Soprano's, Goodfellas, Welcome to the Dollhouse) is delightful and Tibor Feldman (the Devil Wears Prada) is both compelling, conflicted and beautifully transparent.

This film is great educational tool for teachers and parents a like to show young people the dangers of smoking and how it not only effects you, but everyone around you as well. People never stop to think how their choices effect those around them until it is too late. This film brings that issue into the forefront and forces everyone to realize that dangerous behavior, including smoking and secondhand smoke, has consequences that not only effect you but others around you. It also makes people question are you to be blamed for hurting others with your behavior or should others be accountable as well for not taking their own health and safety into account.

I had the opportunity to watch The Pack aka Smoking | Non-Smoking Trailer and Film!!! Very impressive!!!

The story was very thought provoking, interesting and well written!!! I Love the way the director approached it!!! Her ability to capture and personify the different emotional perspectives related to this complex controversial issue by utilizing a diverse group of characters was fantastic!!!

The educational and spiritual value of this story was extremely powerful!!! It truly highlighted the fact that it is tremendously important to carefully consider the consequences of our choices and actions in all situations, not only as it relates to us individually, but as it relates to others as well!!!

The film really captured my attention and I couldn't wait to see what the outcome was going to be!!!

It's definitely a 'must see' film for everyone!!!

Also, I Love the fact that the film was a 'family affair'!!!