Watch American Addict
- NR
- 2012
- 1 hr 38 min
-
6.7 (257)
American Addict is a 2012 documentary film that takes a critical look at America's prescription drug epidemic. The film is directed by Gregory Alan Smith, and it stars Sasha Knezev as the narrator. The documentary explores the factors that have contributed to the epidemic, including drug companies, doctors, and patients. The film features interviews with leading experts on addiction, as well as testimonies from people who have been affected by the crisis.
The film begins by examining the role of pharmaceutical companies in the rise of prescription drug abuse. The documentary argues that these companies have aggressively marketed their drugs to doctors and patients, often downplaying the risks of addiction and overdose. The film highlights several examples of this, including the case of OxyContin, a painkiller that was heavily marketed by its manufacturer, Purdue Pharma. The film argues that the marketing tactics of drug companies have contributed to the over-prescription of these drugs, leading to widespread addiction and abuse.
Another factor explored in the film is the role of doctors in the prescription drug epidemic. Many doctors have been targeted by drug companies with incentives and financial rewards for prescribing their products. The film argues that this has led to a culture of over-prescription, where doctors are more likely to prescribe drugs than explore other treatment options. The film also examines the challenge of treating addiction, which is often complicated by the fact that these drugs are legal and prescribed by doctors.
American Addict also explores the impact of prescription drug abuse on individuals and families. The film features several powerful testimonies from people who have struggled with addiction, including one woman who lost her son to an overdose. The documentary also shows the devastating impact of addiction on communities, including rising rates of crime and social dislocation.
One of the key takeaways of American Addict is the need for greater awareness and education surrounding prescription drug abuse. The film argues that many people do not understand the risks of addiction and overdose associated with these drugs. The documentary suggests that better education for doctors, patients, and the public could help prevent future cases of addiction, as well as improve treatment and outcomes for those who are already struggling with addiction.
Overall, American Addict is a powerful and thought-provoking documentary that shines a light on one of America's most pressing public health challenges. The film is well-researched and features a diverse range of viewpoints, from addiction experts to people who have experienced addiction firsthand. The documentary is not always easy to watch, as it deals with difficult topics and graphic imagery. However, it is an important film that raises important questions about the role of pharmaceutical companies, doctors, and individuals in the prescription drug epidemic. Anyone who is interested in public health or addiction issues should watch American Addict.
In conclusion, American Addict is a documentary that explores the prescription drug epidemic in America. It examines the role of pharmaceutical companies, doctors, and individuals in the rise of addiction and abuse. The documentary features interviews with experts and powerful testimonials from people who have been affected by addiction. Although it is not always an easy film to watch, it is an important work that sheds light on a critical public health issue.
American Addict is a 2012 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 38 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.7.