6 Nonsmokers

6 Nonsmokers, a comedic drama directed by Francis Abbey, hit the screens in 2011 with an ingenious plot that revolves around six completely different individuals who do not smoke. Bridgetta Tomarchio, Greg Thompson, and Jim Murphy head the eclectic mix of leading roles, and they collectively breathe a new life into their characters, providing some memorable on-screen moments.

The story of 6 Nonsmokers is set in a charming suburban Maryland home where Dr. Henry Caldwell (played by Jim Murphy), a famed psychologist, is set to conduct an unorthodox experiment. The experiment, according to Dr. Caldwell, is a revolutionary approach aimed at helping people relinquish their reliance on cigarettes. However, the twist in this tale is that the people participating in this experiment are actually nonsmokers.

Taking center stage alongside Dr. Henry Caldwell are three unique, captivating characters portrayed by Bridgetta Tomarchio, Greg Thompson, and their fellow cast members. Bridgetta Tomarchio plays the role of Sarah, a high-strung regional manager for in-store radio networks. She's an irritable character who can't stand the sight of nicotine addicts. In contrast, Greg Thompson depicts the character of Eric, a tech entrepreneur, more softly. Eric is a person who avoids confronting real-world problems, favoring his digital domain where he has control. The third central character is a laid-back, easy-going individual named John, performed by actor Michael Hardart, who is coping with shock following his parents' sudden death in a bizarre hot-air balloon accident.

These six characters, all of whom are nonsmokers, reluctantly agree to enter the psychologist's house, where they're left alone for four days. The home is equipped with an extensive surveillance network that allows Dr. Caldwell to monitor and analyze each participant's action and interaction during the length of the experiment. As the viewers, we are taken on a journey through their collective experience. Through the narrative, 6 Nonsmokers delves deep into the psyche of its characters, forcing them to confront their anxieties and fears.

As the four-day experiment unfolds, the behavioral differences of the six nonsmokers gradually become more pronounced, showcasing diverse human traits, beliefs, and coping mechanisms. Sandwiched within tumultuous group dynamics and the apparent absurdity of a “stop smoking” seminar for people who do not smoke in the first place, are sessions of revelation and self-exploration for all the characters.

6 Nonsmokers is sophisticated comedy-drama, constantly flipping between the utterly ridiculous and exceptionally emotionally charged moments. The film maintains an engaging pace, with a plot enriched by complex characters, astute humor, balancing its comedic and dramatic elements cleverly through well-written dialogues. The film is supplemented by excellent performances of the cast, especially Bridgetta Tomarchio, Greg Thompson, and Jim Murphy, who do a commendable job in bringing their characters to life and adding an extra depth to the convoluted narrative.

Francis Abbe's surgical treatment of the script is noteworthy, drawing upon a satirical view of smoking and society's obsession with the vice. 6 Nonsmokers might seem superficially focused on smoking or the lack thereof, but it hilariously unfolds into a larger narrative about life, highlighting human vulnerabilities, idiosyncrasies, and what it truly means to confront our fears.

The standout feature of the film is its unique premise and how it underpins the story's development. Despite several comedic instances, the movie does not shy away from dealing with more profound issues. This surprisingly fresh blend makes this film an amusing yet poignant comical drama, guaranteed to keep the viewers entertained and intrigued from beginning to end.

In conclusion, 6 Nonsmokers is a truly commendable attempt at crafting an original plot set in a humorous yet serious tone. What starts off as a quirky tale transforms into an enriching cinematic experience, depicting an unusual intervention to uncover the universal aspect of human character – its flaws, quirks, and insecurities. The film's competent storytelling along with compelling performances, make it an engaging watch. If you're looking for a unique blend of humor and drama, the unconventional plot of 6 Nonsmokers is sure to deliver just that.