Twenty Cigarettes

In Twenty Cigarettes, James Benning shifts from his usual landscape studies to focus on the intimate portraits of 20 individuals. Each participant, including notable figures like Sharon Lockhart and cultural theorist Dick Hebdige, is filmed while they smoke a cigarette. The length of each shot is determined by the time it takes to finish the cigarette, creating a unique rhythm throughout the film.

The documentary references Warhol’s screen tests and showcases a blend of 1930s Hollywood glamour with contemporary themes. Through this lens, Benning captures a range of personalities and settings, emphasizing the personal and social aspects of smoking. The film runs for 99 minutes, offering a contemplative look at human connection in a rapidly changing world.