Romance & Cigarettes 2007

In early 1980s New York, the unraveling relationship between Kitty Kane and her husband Nick takes center stage when she stumbles upon a revealing poem he crafted for his secret lover. This painful discovery shatters their marriage, sending ripples of turmoil throughout their family and the surrounding community. As they grapple with complex topics of love, sex, and pleasure, their inner emotions are brought to life through engaging and intricate musical performances.

Amidst this chaos, their daughter Baby embarks on her own romantic journey with Chetty Jr., whose lack of intelligence is overshadowed by his endearing charms. However, when Baby expresses her intention to marry, Kitty swiftly interjects, fearful that her daughter might repeat the mistakes of her own life. Meanwhile, Nick is entangled in an ongoing affair with Tula, a spirited young woman from Manchester employed at a lingerie shop.

As Kitty comes to terms with Nick’s betrayal, she seeks refuge in her faith and gradually reconnects with her parish priest, finding comfort in her spiritual life. Driven by anger and betrayal, she and her cousin Bo venture to confront Tula, resulting in a fierce confrontation. The tension escalates when Nick suffers a health crisis, collapsing after overindulging in licorice; this shocking moment leads to a heart-to-heart with his mother and friend Angelo, who confront him about his infidelity and its familial legacy. Stricken by shame and the fear of being labeled a “whoremaster,” Nick decides to sever ties with Tula, striving for reconciliation with Kitty.

Simultaneously, Baby realizes she must end her relationship with Chetty Jr. due to his lack of ambition, reflecting her own desires for a bright future. Just when the situation intensifies with a violent clash between Nick and a neighbor, Kitty intervenes, showing the depth of her commitment.

Tragedy strikes when Nick is diagnosed with terminal lung cancer, a fate brought on by his years of smoking. In a moment of raw vulnerability, he confides in Kitty’s priest, revealing his regrets and expressing his thankfulness for their shared life. As his health declines, Kitty commits to caring for him until the very end. In his final moments, Nick pens a heartfelt poem celebrating his love for Kitty and the life they built together.

Following his death, Kitty stands at a crossroads, left to navigate her complex emotions towards Nick while also considering her own future in a world that has been irrevocably changed.