12 Best Movies About Addiction That You Should Watching Update 04/2024

Best Movies About Addiction

Today’s world is dominated by the internet, for better or worse. You can watch any movie, TV show, or YouTube video you want with only a few clicks. As the number of movies produced increases, so does the number of people who watch them. There are many advantages and disadvantages in using this kind of communication, but it can also be a poor way of depicting the negative aspects of individuals and addiction in a false light.

Despite the fact that there are hundreds of films about addiction and recovery, just a few effectively reflect the disease’s complexities. The depiction of substance misuse in rehabilitation films can be critical to the well-being of those who have been afflicted by it. The following is a list of some of the best films on the subject of drug abuse.

1. Requiem For a Dream (2000)

Requiem For a Dream (2000)

Requiem for a Dream, a film adaptation of Hubert Shelby Jr.’s novel, follows four people, all of whom have addictions, as they struggle to overcome their demons. A drug-fueled road to becoming a big-time dealer takes Harry and Tyrone on a roller coaster ride that also takes Harry’s girlfriend, Marion. Meanwhile, Harry’s mother becomes addicted to weight loss drugs, further destabilizing her. There is no happy ending for any of the characters in this hyper-realistic and heartbreaking depiction of heroin addiction’s devastating impact on addicts and their loved ones.

2. A Star is Born (2018)

A Star Is Born tells the story of Jackson Maine, a singer, and Ally, a songwriter. Despite the fact that they sing together, Jackson’s alcoholism, drug abuse, and mental health issues have a negative impact on their personal connection. This film explores the impact that alcoholism has on a person’s relationships and others in their immediate vicinity.

3. Beautiful Boy (2018)

Beautiful Boy (2018)

This film is based on the true story of David and Nic Sheff’s father-son relationship throughout Nic’s struggle with addiction, as told in their memoirs. In addition to Nic’s personal struggles with addiction and relapse, the film explores the ramifications on his family as a whole, particularly his father. Beautiful Boy depicts the agony of failing to provide support for your own child while he battles cancer on his own.

4. Traffic (2000)

The usage of drugs is a common theme in many of the stories in this film. DEA agents, Robert’s daughter who is addicted to heroin, the wife of a man in prison for drug distribution, and a Mexican cop all take turns narrating the story from various points of view. From the top to the bottom of the food chain, this film examines the impact of drugs on every area of life.

5. Walk The Line (2005)

Walk The Line (2005)

This film is based on Johnny Cash’s life story and his struggle with addiction… While in the air force, he began writing and singing songs, which led to a blossoming romance with June Carter, despite the fact that June was married with children at the time. Because of his addiction, their relationship falters, but it is June who helps him get and remain sober.

6. Leaving Las Vegas (1995)

After his wife and child leave him, screenwriter Ben Sanderson’s experience is told in the film Leaving Las Vegas. After a few months of binge drinking, he decides he needs to “drink himself to death” in Sin City. Despite Sera’s concerns, Ben continues to drink in the face of his approaching mortality, which is the center of the film.

7. Ben is Back (2018)

Ben is Back (2018)

Ben Burns makes a surprise appearance on Christmas Eve, which sets the plot of Ben Is Back in motion. For the holidays, he left rehab to spend time with his family. As a result of his drug addiction, he is putting his family in harm’s way. She couldn’t let him go, so she tries to do everything she can to save him and safeguard the rest of her family.

8. Bad Lieutenant (1992)

Drug, gambling, and sex addictions all feature prominently in Bad Lieutenant, which follows a police lieutenant. As he investigates the rape of a nun, he begins to wonder about these issues.

9. Basketball Diaries (1995)

Basketball Diaries (1995)

Jim, a high school student, has a hard time pursuing his dream of becoming a basketball great because of his addiction to painkillers. Heroin leads him down a dark path as he attempts to cope with the challenges of growing up.

10. 28 Days (2000)

Gwen’s story in 28 Days is one of addiction and recovery. As a punishment for spoiling her sister’s wedding, she is sent to a 28-day recovery facility where she meets a diverse group of people who are going through the same thing she is. In spite of the comedy, this film reveals that life may be full of joy even if you are addicted to drugs or alcohol. This film also demonstrates the need of forming a support network with others who are battling similar addictions.

11. The Sound of Metal (2019)

The Sound of Metal (2019)

The last four years of Ruben’s life have been spent focusing on music with his partner, who is also sober. This makes it more difficult for him to maintain his sobriety when he loses his hearing. He can only stay sober and find meaning in his life if he meets other people with comparable difficulties.

12. Rocketman (2019)

Elton John’s life before he became “Elton John” is chronicled in the film Rocketman. It reveals how he was supported by those closest to him in his drug and alcohol abuse and contemplation of suicide. He overcome his addiction and now lives a sober life as a result of his efforts.