Live Comedy at David Trueba’s “Jokes & Cigarettes” Friday

Jokes & Cigarettes

From the acclaimed writer/director David Trueba (Living Is Easy… With Eyes Closed; Madrid, 1987), Jokes & Cigarettes brings to life the poignant true story of the beloved Catalan humorist Eugenio Jofra. His deadpan comedic alter-ego became a cornerstone of Spanish comedy during the turbulent 1970s, masking the personal struggles he faced behind the scenes.

Set in mid-1960s Barcelona, the story begins when the shy young jeweler Eugenio (David Verdaguer, Summer 1993), in a Goya®-winning performance, meets the captivating folk singer Conchita Alcaide (Carolina Yuste, Carmen & Lola) on a bus. It’s love at first sight. Eugenio soon becomes deeply involved in her career, learning to play the guitar, and despite his intense stage fright, the two form a duo, Els dos. Eugenio’s rich, deep voice complements Conchita’s sweet melodies, and as they marry and start a family, their act gains modest success. They even compete with the likes of Nino Rota and Julio Iglesias to represent Spain at Eurovision, eventually landing a residency at a local club.

One evening, with Conchita unable to perform, Eugenio reluctantly takes the stage alone, discovering that his talent for storytelling far surpasses his musical skills. Word of his unique show spreads quickly, and soon, Eugenio and Conchita develop a stage persona for him that becomes a national sensation, bringing laughter to a country in need of joy and forever altering their lives.

Trueba’s bittersweet tribute, based on a book by the couple’s son Gerard, expertly captures the genius of Eugenio’s stand-up comedy while painting a loving portrait of a man who brought happiness to so many. The film also features a stellar soundtrack of 1960s and 70s Catalan music, perfectly complementing this heartfelt and humorous journey.

“Credible, sad and beautiful cinema. It is indisputable that this comedian was on a higher level with a sense of humor as brilliant as it is exotic, and the ability to seduce the most varied palates. David Verdaguer is magnificent in the role.” —Carlos Boyero, El País