Why Old Hollywood Movies Felt Smoking Was Cool

When delving into the annals of classic Hollywood, one cannot help but notice the frequent presence of cigarette smoking in old movies. This cultural phenomenon is a product of several intertwined factors that make it a fascinating subject of study. Whether it's the allure of the characters, the marketing strategies of the tobacco industry, or the storytelling devices employed by filmmakers, this article delves into why cigarettes became such an integral part of early cinema.

Cultural Norms

During the early to mid-20th century, smoking was not only socially accepted but also glamorized. Society often associated smoking with sophistication, rebellion, and adult sophistication. In the grand scheme of Hollywood, characters who smoked were perceived as more mature, rebellious, and edgy. This perception was so prevalent that smoking became a common choice for characters in films.

Star Image

Iconic actors and actresses such as Humphrey Bogart, Marlon Brando, and Audrey Hepburn were known for their smoking habits. These celebrities used smoking not only as a personal habit but also as a means to enhance their on-screen personas. Smoking added a layer of charm, allure, and edginess to their characters, making them more relatable and memorable to audiences. For instance, Bogart's portrayal of Sam Spade in The Maltese Falcon often featured him smoking a pipe or a cigarette, which blended seamlessly with his character's mysterious and brooding persona.

Marketing and Sponsorship

The tobacco industry was not shy about leveraging its products to cultivate a positive image. Tobacco companies often sponsored films and television shows, leading to a natural integration of smoking into the narratives. Sponsorship allowed tobacco companies to influence the way smoking was depicted in movies, portraying it as a desirable and fashionable behavior. As a result, scenes featuring characters smoking became a staple of Hollywood.

Storytelling Device

In addition to cultural norms and star images, smoking also served as a powerful storytelling device. Filmmakers used smoking to convey a wide range of emotional and psychological states. For example, a character lighting a cigarette might signify stress, contemplation, or a moment of pause. This technique was particularly effective in creating tension or highlighting a character's inner struggles. A memorable scene from Some Like It Hot illustrates this well, where Tony Curtis's character is seen smoking a cigarette while musing about his character's true identity, thereby adding depth to the storyline.

Lack of Awareness

Perhaps the most striking factor is the lack of awareness regarding the health risks associated with smoking during the early decades of cinema. As a result, filmmakers did not hesitate to depict smoking as a normal and acceptable part of life. It was only as public awareness of the dangers of smoking grew, and societal attitudes shifted, that the portrayal of smoking in films began to decline. By the 1980s, movies started to depict smoking in a more critical light, reflecting contemporary health concerns and changing cultural values.

It's worth noting that even personal anecdotes can offer insight into the cultural significance of smoking in old Hollywood. Recalling childhood memories, some people might remember their grandparents keeping old magazines featuring full-page advertisements of celebrities like Joan Crawford and William Holden smoking, with accompanying blurbs claiming that smoking was good for your health. Similarly, the tobacco industry often gave away small packs of cigarettes to new military recruits, likely with the hope that they would become addicted.

Today, the portrayal of smoking in movies has evolved. While it may still be featured in certain genres or for character development, it is often done so in a manner that reflects contemporary health concerns and changing cultural values. However, for those interested in the historical roots of cinematic storytelling, the prevalence of cigarette smoking in old Hollywood serves as a fascinating reminder of how deeply outdated habits and cultural perceptions can become over time.