Films about teenage drug abuse often explore the struggles and consequences faced by young individuals who become involved in substance abuse. These films aim to shed light on the challenges of addiction and its impact on teenagers and their families.
“Thirteen”, 2016
Director: Vanessa Caswill, China Moo-Young
This film follows the story of a 13-year-old girl who falls into a world of drugs, sex, and crime after befriending a troubled classmate.
Starring: Jodie Comer, Valene Kane, Richard Rankin, Natasha Little, Katherine Rose Morley, Stuart Graham, Aneurin Barnard, Mark Flitton, Kemi-Bo Jacobs, Eleanor Wyld;
Production year: 2016;
Genre: thriller, drama, crime, detective;
Age: 18+;
Rating: IMDB: 7,2;
More information about the film “Thirteen” on the website imdb.com
“Requiem for a Dream”, 2000
Director: Darren Aronofsky
This movie portrays the lives of four individuals whose drug addictions spiral out of control, leading to devastating consequences.
Starring: Jared Leto, Marlon Wayans, Jennifer Connelly, Ellen Burstyn, Christopher McDonald, Louise Lasser, Marcia Jean Kurtz, Janet Sarno, Suzanne Shepherd, Joanne Gordon;
Production year: 2000;
Genre: drama;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 102 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 8,3;
More information about the film “Requiem for a Dream” on the website imdb.com
“Kids”, 1995
Director: Larry Clark
“Kids” delves into the lives of New York City teenagers engaging in risky behaviors, including drug use, over the course of a day.
Starring: Leo Fitzpatrick, Justin Pierce, Chloë Sevigny, Rosario Dawson, Jon Abrahams, Harold Hunter, Sarah Henderson, Joseph Chan, Johnathan Staci Kim, Adriane Brown;
Production year: 1995;
Genre: drama;
MPAA rating: nc17;
Duration: 91 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7;
More information about the film “Kids” on the website imdb.com
“Traffic”, 2000
Director: Steven Soderbergh
This film weaves together multiple storylines, including one about a teenage girl who descends into drug addiction.
Starring: Michael Douglas, Benicio Del Toro, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Don Cheadle, Dennis Quaid, Erika Christensen, Jacob Vargas, Miguel Ferrer, Steven Bauer, Clifton Collins Jr.;
Production year: 2000;
Genre: thriller, drama, crime;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 147 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,6;
More information about the film “Traffic” on the website imdb.com
“13 Reasons Why”, 2017
Director: Jessica Yu, Kyle Patrick Alvarez, Gregg Araki, Michael Morris
Based on the novel, this series explores the reasons behind a high school student's suicide, touching on themes of drug abuse among teenagers.
Starring: Dylan Minnette, Katherine Langford, Kate Walsh, Christian Navarro, Miles Heizer, Alisha Boe, Brandon Flynn, Derek Luke, Justin Prentice, Devin Druid;
Production year: 2017;
Genre: thriller, drama, detective;
Rating: IMDB: 7,5;
More information about the film “13 Reasons Why” on the website imdb.com
In conclusion, films about teenage drug abuse serve as powerful tools to raise awareness about the dangers and consequences of substance abuse among young individuals. By shedding light on the struggles and challenges faced by teenagers caught in the cycle of addiction, these films prompt important conversations about prevention, intervention, and support. Through compelling storytelling and impactful visuals, these movies not only entertain audiences but also educate and inspire positive change in addressing this critical issue in society.
