Watch Drugstore Cowboy

Drugstore Cowboy is a 1989 film starring Matt Dillon, Kelly Lynch, and James Le Gros. Directed by Gus Van Sant, this drama tells the story of a group of drug addicts who travel around the Pacific Northwest, stealing pills from pharmacies and hospitals to support their habit. The film centers around Bob Hughes (Dillon), the leader of the group, and his girlfriend Diane (Lynch). Bob is a drug addict who is obsessed with finding new sources of drugs, and he has developed a complex system that allows him to stay one step ahead of the law. He and his associates Rick (Le Gros) and Nadine (Heather Graham) spend their days breaking into drugstores and stealing everything from Demerol to codeine. At night, they retreat to their dingy apartment to use their stolen goods.

As the film progresses, we learn more about Bob's past and why he turned to drugs in the first place. We also see his relationship with Diane change and evolve, as she struggles to keep her own addiction in check. Along the way, they encounter various obstacles, including a nosy cop named Gentry (James Remar) and a new member of their crew who threatens to disrupt their carefully balanced dynamic.

One of the most striking things about Drugstore Cowboy is its unflinching portrayal of drug addiction. The film doesn't shy away from the realities of this lifestyle, showing the devastating impact it can have on both individuals and their loved ones. However, it's not a preachy film - it simply presents these characters and events in an honest way, leaving it up to the audience to draw their own conclusions.

Despite its heavy subject matter, the film does have moments of humor and levity. There's a certain camaraderie among the group of addicts, and they frequently engage in witty banter and playful teasing. These moments of lightness serve to make the film feel more grounded and real, rather than just a bleak portrayal of addiction.

Another notable aspect of the film is its soundtrack. The score was composed by Elliot Goldenthal and features a mix of original music and popular songs from the '50s and '60s, including tunes by Hank Williams and The Kingston Trio. The music helps to set the tone and evoke a sense of nostalgia for a bygone era.

Overall, Drugstore Cowboy is a well-crafted and thought-provoking film that remains relevant to this day. Its unvarnished depiction of drug addiction still feels fresh and impactful, and its nuanced portrayal of complex characters adds an extra layer of depth. With strong performances by its lead actors and Gus Van Sant's assured direction, this film is a must-see for fans of independent cinema.

Drugstore Cowboy is a 1989 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 42 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.2 and a MetaScore of 82.