Films about drugs often explore the complex world of drug abuse, trafficking, addiction, and its impact on individuals and society. These movies can range from dramatic accounts of personal struggle and devastation to thrilling tales of crime and pursuit. In 2017, a number of films delved into various aspects of drug-related stories, offering audiences a mix of intense drama, action-packed sequences, and heartfelt moments. These films often provide commentary on social issues, human behavior, and the consequences of drug abuse, making them both entertaining and thought-provoking.
“American Made”, 2017
Director: Doug Liman
This film is based on the true story of Barry Seal, a commercial airline pilot who becomes a drug smuggler for the Medellín Cartel in the 1980s. Recruited later by the DEA, Seal becomes a key figure in a covert operation that would eventually have significant implications for the U.S. government. The movie merges elements of comedy, action, and drama to explore themes of crime, politics, and betrayal.
Starring: Tom Cruise, Domhnall Gleeson, Sarah Wright, Jesse Plemons, Caleb Landry Jones, Lola Kirke, Jayma Mays, Alejandro Edda, Benito Martinez, E. Roger Mitchell;
Production year: 2017;
Genre: action, drama, comedy, crime;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 115 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,1;
More information about the film “American Made” on the website imdb.com
“Good Time”, 2017
Director: Benny Safdie, Josh Safdie
After a botched bank robbery lands his younger brother in prison, a man embarks on a twisted odyssey through the city's underworld in an increasingly desperate and dangerous attempt to get his brother out. While not solely about drugs, drug use and its peripheral lifestyle play critical roles in the narrative, showcasing the lengths to which people will go under the influence of desperation and substance abuse.
Starring: Robert Pattinson, Benny Safdie, Buddy Duress, Taliah Webster, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Barkhad Abdi, Necro, Peter Verby, Saida Mansoor, Gladys Mathon;
Production year: 2017;
Genre: thriller, drama, crime;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 102 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,3;
These films from 2017 use the theme of drugs to weave stories that are both gripping and reflective, offering audiences a diverse look into the darker sides of human nature and societal failings.
In reviewing the slate of films about drugs from 2017, it's evident that filmmakers continue to explore the complexities of drug use, addiction, and the subsequent impact on human lives with unflinching honesty and creative vigor. From gritty real-life dramas to thought-provoking documentaries, the year's offerings delve into the myriad ways drugs intersect with issues of race, poverty, mental health, and the failing war on drugs. These films, such as the critically acclaimed “A Ghost Story” and the hard-hitting documentary “Dying in Vein,” not only entertain but also serve as a vital commentary on the societal ills and challenges posed by drug addiction. They remind us of the power of cinema to evoke empathy, enlighten, and spark discussions that can lead to real-world change. As such, the films about drugs from 2017 stand as a testament to the enduring ability of filmmakers to tackle complex subjects with nuance, sensitivity, and a necessary dose of reality, offering viewers not just a window into the world of addiction but also paths to understanding and, potentially, solutions.
