A tutor of mine often refers to the film ‘Thank you for not smoking’ as an example of stereotypical PR. We have been shown clips in class which are hilarious, so I decided to buy the film and watch it all!
I know a friend of mine, Anni Wahl, absolutely loves the movie and now I know why.
The contagious personality of protagonist Nick Naylor, is the chief spokesman for the Academy of Tobacco Studies, a tobacco lobby whose stated purpose is to research the links between smoking cigarettes and lung cancer.. Unsurprisingly, the group, funded by cigarette companies, does not find any link between the two.
He is a fine example of great lobbying. He has no educational background, but he has charm, charisma and can talk his way through any awkward situation.
There is a part in the movie where Nick teaches his son how to argue. He explains that you do not have to convince the opposition that you are right, or that they are wrong, because if the people who are listening believe you are right, then you automatically win the argument.
I have always questioned the ethics of having to stand for something controversial or something that you personally don’t believe in. This film showed me how it is possible. Nick Naylor is a spin doctor at his best, and although fictional, a very inspiring character.
About Me
- Maya Mistry
- I am currently studing my MA in Public Relations in Leicester at Demontfort University. I have a BA in Journalism from the University of Sheffield and have a passion for writing and expressing my views on controversial issues.
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