Unveiling the Cigarettes of Peaky Blinders: Real or Fake?
Do the actors in Peaky Blinders actually smoke real cigarettes? The answer may surprise you. This article delves into the truth behind the cigarettes used in the show and the reasons behind their choice.
Are the Cigarettes in Peaky Blinders Real or Fake?
Many fans of Peaky Blinders have long wondered whether the actors actually smoke real cigarettes during filming. The truth, however, is more straightforward than you might think. According to industry practices and the show's production team, the cigarettes used in Peaky Blinders are fake.
Why Fake Cigarettes?
The choice to use fake cigarettes is primarily due to health and safety concerns. During filming, actors smoke hundreds of cigarettes in a single shot, and re-shot numerous times if needed. Real cigarettes would be a significant health risk not only to the actors but also to the crew and the environment on set. Hence, they opt for herbal cigarettes as a safer substitute.
What Are These Herbal Cigarettes?
Herbal cigarettes are not made from tobacco and contain no nicotine. Instead, they are a blend of various herbs and other natural ingredients designed to look and feel like a traditional cigarette. While they do not contain tobacco, they often lack the complexity of flavors that real cigarettes provide, leading to unpleasant taste and aroma.
Witnessing the Truth
Actress Helen McCrory, who played Polly, shared her experience with the herbal cigarettes, stating, 'They taste bloody horrible and smell like pot.' These statements highlight the stark contrast between the experience of smoking herbal cigarettes and real cigarettes.
Behind the Scenes at Peaky Blinders
A deeper look into the production of Peaky Blinders reveals that the actors, including Cillian Murphy, who plays the lead role of Tommy Shelby, typically use herbal cigarettes during filming. In an interview with The Independent, Cillian Murphy revealed that he had smoked over 3000 herbal cigarettes during the production.
Special Cases
Despite the use of herbal cigarettes, it's worth noting that not all actors in Peaky Blinders conform to this practice. For instance, Cillian Murphy, who plays Tommy Shelby, does not smoke in real life. Similarly, Joe Cole, who plays John Shelby, only smokes for acting roles. Paul Anderson, who plays Arthur Shelby, does not smoke at all and is often seen with cigars instead.
Industry Standards
The practice of using fake cigarettes in film production is not unique to Peaky Blinders. It is a well-established industry standard. Film cigarettes are not made from tobacco and the use of tobacco on film sets is banished in all production stages. Even if an actor smokes by choice, they must use herbal cigarettes on the set. This rule applies to all productions to ensure a safer and healthier working environment.
In summary, while Peaky Blinders may depict scenes filled with cigarette smoke and a gritty, smoky atmosphere, the reality is that the actors are not smoking real cigarettes. Instead, they rely on herbal cigarettes, which, despite their unpleasant taste, help to maintain a safe and controlled environment on set.
Conclusion
Peaky Blinders captures the essence of 1920s Birmingham with vivid detail. However, behind the scenes, the show's creators and the cast prioritize the safety and health of all involved. The use of herbal cigarettes is a testament to the industry's commitment to health and sustainability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do the actors in Peaky Blinders actually smoke real cigarettes? A: No, they use herbal cigarettes, which do not contain tobacco and have no nicotine.
Q: Why are herbal cigarettes used in film production? A: To ensure a safe and healthy working environment on set, and because the actors need to smoke numerous cigarettes during filming.
Q: What do the actors think about the herbal cigarettes used in Peaky Blinders? A: Some actors, like Helen McCrory, have described them as tasting 'bloody horrible.'