Century of Smoke

About This Movie

Century of Smoke paints a haunting portrait of addiction and survival in the Laotian jungle. Laosan, a young father, is entrenched in the cycle of opium use, reflecting the struggles of a community where farming this crop is a means to an end. The film’s pacing is deliberate, almost meditative, allowing viewers to sink into the oppressive atmosphere of both the lush landscape and the heavy burden of addiction. The cinematography captures the stark contrast between nature’s beauty and the despair of its inhabitants. There’s a rawness to the performances that feels genuine, pulling you into their world. It’s not just a documentary; it’s a somber exploration of how a poison can simultaneously be a lifeline and a death sentence.

explores themes of addiction · highly atmospheric · raw performances