Deep Dive: SmoKings (2014)
Film Lens
In 'SmoKings', the Messina brothers operate Yesmoke, a tobacco company in Turin, Italy. The company began as an online store selling cigarettes globally, including brands like Marlboro, Camels, and Lucky Strikes. As their sales exceeded one hundred million, they faced legal challenges from major tobacco companies, leading to a significant lawsuit.
The documentary presents the conflict between small businesses and large corporations, focusing on the Messina brothers' struggle against 'Big Tobacco'. The legal battle escalated when Yesmoke was sued for 550 million dollars, resulting in the shutdown of their website. This narrative emphasizes the impact of corporate power on entrepreneurship in the tobacco industry.
Why Watch
- •Meet the Messina brothers of Yesmoke.
- •See how small businesses fight corporate giants.
- •Find out about the tobacco industry's legal battles.
Did You Know
•Yesmoke sold over 100 million cigarettes globally.
•The Messina brothers faced a lawsuit for 550 million dollars.
•Yesmoke was based in Turin, Italy.
•The documentary was directed by Michele Fornasero in 2014.
Perfect For
Tobacco industry insightsSmall business strugglesLegal battles in business