Addiction is Even Darker From the Addict’s Side

I gave you my 2-cents about painkillers a few weeks ago. So, during the last dull days of Summer, what better than to discover a hidden gem from 2021? And this is exactly what HULU’s Dopesick is.

While Painkiller focused on the scumbag Dr. Richard Sackler, this once pivots 180 degrees and looks at the disturbing underbelly of addiction from the addicts point of view.

I cannot begin to level enough praise on Michael Keaton and Rosario Dawson for their stunning performances. Keaton’s portrayal of Dr. Fiinick as he slides into the depths of addiction is beyond brilliant; so subtly crafted and executed. Dawson superbly creates the uncompromising DEA agent Bridget, willing to jeopardize her personal happiness to save the young souls addicted to the killer drug OxyContin.

Standouts among the supporting cast are Kaitlyn Dever (she of Last Man Standing) as the habitual, ever-failing rehabber. Will Poulter as the getting-laid-obsessed Billy; Phillipa Soo as the ultimate bitch of the Western world. And last but not least, a true joy to see Mare Winningham portraying Betsy’s long-suffering mother.

If you liked Painkiller, you must watch Dopesick so you have the whole 360 degrees of this scourge on humanity.