Quite often, people are not willing to admit they could be dependent on or addicted to alcohol or drugs. At some point, a person could take up drinking to cope with a traumatic experience or use an illegal drug to find release from the complexities of life. Seeking refuge in this delirious and dangerous utopia can result in severe consequences, including near-fatal overdoses and (in the worst case scenario) death. While a long list of resources offer information about these dangerous circumstances, Hollywood has also taken measures to paint an unusual yet effective picture of addiction at its worst. Here are two movies that have successfully illustrated the reality of this terrible illness.
Trainspotting (1996)
Based in Edinburgh, Scotland, the film details the misadventures of a group of heroin addicts and football fans as they pursue their dangerous habits and fall prey to dangerous circumstance. The collection of misfits include the film’s narrator Mark Renton (Ewan McGregor), Spud (Ewan Bremner), Sick Boy (Jonny Lee Miller), Tommy (Kevin McKidd), and Frank Begbie (Robert Carlyle). At random points, Mark, Spud, and Sick Boy interact with a drug dealer named Swanney (Peter Mullan) to purchase their drug of choice: heroin.
Overall, the film illustrates several brutal realities of addiction. A clean and good-natured character is tempted by the euphoric qualities of heroin and eventually contracts HIV (due to an infected needle). At some point in the story, another friend experiences a severe overdose and violent withdrawal symptoms in one cycle and eventually comes to the realization that heroin is not the answer to his problems. Trainspotting also addresses how heroin impacts children and family members and showcases the brutal reality of the world of drug dealing.
Requiem for a Dream (2000)
Requiem for a Dream takes viewers on a frightening, hallucinogenic journey through the dangers of addiction, drug dealing, and dependency. After best friends Harry (Jared Leto) and Tyrone (Marlon Wayans) decide to start selling heroin in the street, they begin to discover that acquaintances and friends are partaking in more dangerous substances. One particularly interesting moment in the film involves a female character, who takes methamphetamine in an attempt to lose weight to fit into a dress, and her steep descent into tolerance for the dangerous drug. Eventually, the film plunges into the realms of madness as its characters literally and figuratively begin to rot into nothingness.
Remember that there is always hope for you. Drugs and alcohol do not have control over your life. You do. If you are suffering from addiction or dependence or know someone who is suffering from these unfortunate circumstances, get in touch with Asana Recovery. Counselors and healthcare experts can walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and help guide you to a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While it might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to keep you and your unborn child safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your addiction troubles today.
