Movies can make us laugh, cry, and think deeply about ourselves. The effects of addiction, which affects over 10% of Americans, have been the impetus for numerous moving films. We've compiled a list of 20 films that do a great job of exploring addiction and recovery through topics including drunkenness, drug abuse, the struggles of addicts, and their eventual triumphs.
However, persons in recovery from substance use disorders should approach these movies with caution, as some of their depictions of SUDs and AUDs can be graphic and possibly upsetting. Seeking expert help is crucial if you or someone you know has an addiction problem. Helpful resources and advice can be found at places like the Master Center for Addiction Medicine.
1. Rush (1991)
"Rush" follows the lives of two anti-narcotics police officers working undercover. Both officers struggle with addiction after trying the drugs they are attempting to track and destroy for their cover. The movie serves as a stark reminder of how easily people can fall into addiction unintentionally and emphasizes the importance of supporting one another in the journey to recovery.
2. Permanent Midnight (1998)
Based on Jerry Stahl's autobiography, "Permanent Midnight" chronicles the life of a successful comedy writer as he battles addiction. What starts with prescription drugs spirals into heroin and cocaine use, showcasing the protagonist's struggle with Substance Use Disorder (SUD) throughout the film and the challenges he faces on his road to recovery.
3. Gia (1998)
Starring Angelina Jolie in the title role, "Gia" depicts the life of one of the first US supermodels, Gia Marie Carangi. The film portrays Gia's attempts to overcome her drug addiction to cocaine by replacing it with methadone, which leads to a new addiction. The movie poignantly illustrates how the path to recovery is not always linear and highlights the devastating consequences of intravenous drug use, as Gia finds herself contracting AIDS.
4. Beautiful Boy (2018)
"Beautiful Boy" is based on real events and follows the life of Nic Sheff, who struggles with a severe addiction to crystal meth. The film also delves into the efforts of his father to help him achieve sobriety. By focusing on the negative and heartbreaking impacts of drug abuse on a person's life and their loved ones, the movie provides a raw and honest portrayal of the realities of Substance Use Disorders (SUDs).
5. Clean and Sober (1988)
"Clean and Sober" centers on Daryl, a man who wakes up next to a woman who has overdosed on drugs and discovers that he has embezzled money from his company. To avoid legal consequences, he enters a rehab program and must confront his cocaine addiction and commit to addiction treatment.
6. Flight (2012)
"Flight" revolves around an airline pilot known as "Whip," initially praised as a hero for preventing a plane crash. However, it is later revealed that he was under the influence of alcohol and cocaine while in control of the aircraft. The movie portrays Whip's struggle with addiction and his eventual admission of guilt, using his time in prison as an opportunity to get clean.
7. The Anonymous People (2013)
This documentary sheds light on the lives of real people battling Alcohol Use Disorders (AUDs) and Substance Use Disorders (SUDs). The film features both ordinary individuals and famous figures as they share their personal journeys to addiction recovery. By humanizing the experience of addiction and recovery, the documentary aims to break down the negative stigma often associated with these disorders.
8. Leaving Las Vegas (1995)
A successful screenwriter, Ben, decides to head to Las Vegas with the intent of drinking himself to death. As he refuses to accept help or treatment, the lives of those around him begin to crumble. "Leaving Las Vegas" serves as a stark warning of the dangers of refusing assistance in battling addiction.
9. Everything Must Go (2010)
"Everything Must Go" centers on Nick Halsey, a salesman whose life unravels when his alcohol addiction costs him his job and marriage. The film portrays the detrimental effects of alcoholism on a person's personal and professional life, as well as their mental health. It also demonstrates how life changes can act as wake-up calls, leading to the path of recovery.
10. My Name is Bill W (1989)
This movie chronicles the life of William Griffith Wilson, a stockbroker and World War I veteran who develops an alcohol dependence after losing his fortune in the 1929 stock market crash. The film delves into the formation of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), the worldwide organization that has helped countless individuals on their journey to recovery.
11. Drunks (1995)
"Drunks" focuses on a group of individuals in a 12-step recovery program for alcohol addiction. The movie is shot as a series of monologues, alternating between the protagonist, Jim, trying to resist drinking on a particular night and the stories shared by the rest of the group about their own experiences with alcohol addiction.
12. Drugstore Cowboy (1989)
This crime drama follows a group of friends addicted to drugs as they travel across the Pacific Northwest, robbing hospitals and pharmacies to support their habit. A fatal overdose shakes the group, leading their leader, Bob, to attempt leaving his past behind. The film demonstrates the difficulties of overcoming addiction but ultimately shows that recovery is possible with perseverance.
13. Basketball Diaries (1995)
Based on Jim Carroll's autobiography, "Basketball Diaries" follows the story of a high school basketball player who turns to substance abuse to cope with the grief of losing a close friend. The film vividly portrays teenage addiction, the consequences that can lead to a life of crime and imprisonment, and the glimmers of hope for recovery.
14. Home Run (2013)
"Home Run" is a Christian sports drama that centers on Cory, a promising professional baseball player whose life spirals out of control due to alcohol misuse. The movie explores the damage caused by alcoholism in both his professional and personal life, as well as the risks it poses to his brother. Through a recovery program, Cory manages to beat his addiction and rebuild important relationships in his life.
15. Requiem for a Dream (2000)
Based on the novel of the same title, "Requiem for a Dream" delves into the lives of four individuals struggling with different forms of addiction. The movie offers a graphic depiction of the horrors that Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) can inflict, addressing both mental and physical health in a deeply intense psychological drama.
16. 28 Days (2000)
"28 Days" follows the story of Gwen Cummings, a high-flying newspaper columnist with an Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) who ends up in rehab after crashing her car. The film explores the lives of Gwen and the other patients in the rehab center, highlighting the paths to recovery that some find while others struggle in the harsh reality of the outside world.
17. The Boost (1988)
"The Boost" showcases how a change in fortune can lead to addiction, as Lenny and Linda become increasingly dependent on cocaine. As their lives rapidly unravel, the film explores the different paths people may take when confronted with substance misuse.
18. The Fighter (2010)
Based on the true story of boxer Micky Ward, "The Fighter" revolves around Micky and his half-brother-turned-trainer Dicky, a former professional boxer. Dicky's struggle with cocaine addiction and his appearance in an HBO documentary draws attention to substance misuse, relapse, and the journey to recovery.
19. Rocketman (2019)
"Rocketman" is a biopic of the legendary musician Elton John. The film portrays how childhood trauma is closely linked to his later struggles with mental health and SUDs. As Elton John's fame rises, so does his addiction. The movie depicts his journey to confront his substance abuse and seek recovery by checking into a drug rehab facility.
20. A Star is Born (2018)
"A Star is Born" stars Bradley Cooper as a successful musician named Jack, who helps an aspiring young singer (played by Lady Gaga) gain recognition. However, Jack's battle with alcoholism escalates, leading to personal and professional barriers and showcasing the tragic consequences of long-term alcohol abuse.
Final comment:
The movies mentioned in this list do not intend to glorify or promote Alcohol Use Disorders (AUDs) or Substance Use Disorders (SUDs). Instead, they serve as reminders of the individual paths to recovery and offer valuable lessons about the challenges faced by those battling addiction. Each film provides a unique perspective, and while not every movie will resonate with everyone, there is likely to be one that resonates deeply with viewers.
It is crucial to remember that recovery from addictive behaviors is possible. As depicted in these films, many individuals struggle with addiction, and seeking help is a brave and necessary step towards healing. If you or someone you care about is grappling with substance abuse, reach out for support and guidance from professionals and support networks to begin the journey to recovery. Remember, you are not alone, and there is hope for a brighter future.