20 Cigarettes (film)

20 Cigarettes is a 2010 Italian drama film directed by Aureliano Amadei. The film is a semi-autobiographical account of Amadei's experiences in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, shortly before the 2005 terrorist attacks that occurred there.

The film follows the director, played by himself, as he travels to Sharm el-Sheikh to scout locations for a film about peace in the Middle East. He befriends a local guide and witnesses the vibrant culture and beauty of the region. The film depicts the events leading up to the bombings and their immediate aftermath, focusing on the personal impact and the sudden shattering of the perceived tranquility. The title, 20 Cigarettes, refers to the number of cigarettes the director had left when the attacks occurred, symbolizing the finite nature of life and the sudden awareness of mortality.

20 Cigarettes explores themes of cultural understanding, the futility of violence, and the human cost of terrorism. It is notable for its realistic portrayal of the events and its use of non-professional actors, adding to the film's sense of authenticity. The film received critical acclaim for its honest and moving depiction of the tragedy.