Comedy
United States of America
Cold Turkey is a 1971 comedy-drama movie directed by Norman Lear. Reverend Clayton Brooks (played by Dick Van Dyke) is the enthusiastic and ambitious minister of Eagle Rock, Iowa. He wants his small town to be known for something other than its turkey industry. When he learns of a national "Great American Smokeout" contest offering $25 million to any town that can quit smoking for 30 days, he decides that his town is going to win.
Brooks convinces the town council and community leaders to support his plan. They offer a townwide cash prize, and the town doctor agrees to provide free medical services to anyone who quits smoking. However, when the town signs up for the contest, the tobacco industry takes notice.
A trio of industry executives, led by Merwin Wren (played by Bob Newhart), decide to prevent Eagle Rock from winning the contest at all costs. They send in their "dirty tricks" team to disrupt the town's efforts to quit smoking. They bribe locals to start smoking again, they hire actors to portray doctors and scientists who challenge the health benefits of quitting smoking, and they even stage a fake plane crash to distract the town from its goal.
As the town strives to remain smoke-free, tensions rise, and the townspeople struggle with their addiction to nicotine. Relationships are put to the test, and people's tempers flare up to the point of violence. Brooks struggles to keep the town focused on the prize and the benefits of quitting smoking.
The movie features an ensemble cast of popular actors, including Bob Newhart, Dick Van Dyke, Tom Poston, and Jean Stapleton. Cold Turkey is a satire on the power of big companies over individuals, and a commentary on addiction, greed, and human nature. It's a witty and insightful film that never takes itself too seriously, while still dealing with serious issues.
