International Day Against Drug Abuse and Trafficking
SPECIAL
On International Day Against Drug Abuse and Trafficking, it is important to shed light on the portrayal of addiction and substance use in films and the potential impact they have on our understanding of these issues.
As early as the 1930s, addiction was portrayed in “Reefer Madness”.
Movies like "Trainspotting", "Requiem for a Dream", and "Leaving Las Vegas" have been celebrated for their portrayal of the harsh realities of substance abuse, leaving lasting impressions on viewers.
Recently, the Oscar-winning “A Star Is Born” made use of Bradley Cooper’s fading rock star to hit the right notes on drug addiction.
Additionally, Kate Winslet’s “Mare Of Easttown”, Mike Flanagan’s “The Haunting Of Hill House”, and Timothée Chalamet’s “Beautiful Boy” poignantly gazed at the personal and social ravages of addiction.
Serving as bittersweet love letters to addicts and their social circles, these works successfully highlight how the consequences of drug indulgence spill beyond the present and, at times, beyond the grave.
These not only aim to entertain but also seek to raise awareness and generate empathy for those caught in the grips of addiction.
However, it is essential to approach these films with a critical eye, as some films may sensationalize substance abuse or depict it in a romanticized or glamorous manner, which can be misleading and potentially harmful.
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