Warning: This Drug May Kill You is a heart-wrenching and insightful documentary that explores the damage and devastation caused by prescription drug addiction in the United States. Directed by Perri Peltz, the film debuted on HBO in May 2017 and chronicles the lives of several individuals and families who have been directly affected by prescription drug addiction.
The documentary opens with a poignant montage of everyday Americans from all walks of life going about their daily routines. These scenes are juxtaposed with footage of overflowing pharmacies and doctors clearly overprescribing drugs. This sets the tone for the film, showcasing the sad reality of how drugs have become a pervasive part of American life.
What follows is a series of deeply personal and harrowing stories from survivors of prescription drug addiction. The documentary sheds light on the disturbing fact that prescription opioids, like OxyContin, are often the gateway to addiction, and how easy it is for people to start using these drugs with a prescription from their doctor.
Viewers are introduced to a variety of individuals who are struggling with addiction, and we see how this disease affects their daily lives. Their stories are presented in a compassionate and empathetic manner that highlights the reality of their struggles. We learn about how the addiction started, how it progressed, and how it ultimately changed their lives forever.
One powerful aspect of the film is the inclusion of family members and loved ones. We hear from the mothers, fathers, siblings, and spouses of those who have been lost to addiction. These testimonials add depth and emotional weight to the film, illustrating the ripple effect of addiction on those around the addict. We see the toll that their loved one's addiction has taken on them, as well as the guilt and shame that many of them carry.
Throughout the documentary, various experts in the field of addiction medicine and drug policy weigh in on the subject, providing important context and analysis. We hear from addiction specialists, doctors, law enforcement officials, and lawmakers, all of whom help to shed light on the complex issues surrounding prescription drug addiction in America. While the experts offer insights and commentary, the focus of the film remains on the individuals and families struggling with addiction.
The documentary exposes the alarming statistics surrounding prescription drug addiction in America. Overdose deaths have increased exponentially in recent years, with over 50,000 people dying from drug overdoses in 2015 alone. In many cases, these deaths were caused by prescription opioids like OxyContin, which are now considered by many to be a public health crisis.
Warning: This Drug May Kill You is a difficult film to watch, but it is an essential one. It is a heartbreaking look at the realities of prescription drug addiction, from the perspective of those who have experienced it firsthand. The film is a powerful reminder of the importance of educating ourselves about addiction and supporting those who are struggling with it.
In conclusion, Warning: This Drug May Kill You is a truly essential documentary that is timely, informative, and important. It emphasizes the need of acknowledgment of drug addiction and how it affects lives in more ways than one. It is a candid and empathetic portrayal of a problem that is sweeping the country and robbing families of their loved ones. The movie is a must-watch for anyone wanting to understand the devastating impact of prescription drug addiction on individuals and families, and the need for change in our country's approach to addiction treatment and prevention.
Warning: This Drug May Kill You is a 2017 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour.
It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.2.
