Synopsis
Painkiller is a six-episode Netflix documentary series that tells the story of the opioid crisis in the United States. The series is based on the book Pain Killer: A Deadly Addiction by Barry Meier, and it follows the rise and fall of OxyContin, the drug that helped to fuel the crisis.
The series features a star-studded cast, including Taylor Kitsch, Matthew Goode, and Rosario Dawson. It is directed by Peter Berg, who is known for his work on films such as Lone Survivor and Patriots Day.
Cast and Director
- Taylor Kitsch as Billy Cutler, a doctor who becomes addicted to OxyContin
- Matthew Goode as Richard Sackler, the CEO of Purdue Pharma, the company that manufactured OxyContin
- Rosario Dawson as Beth Malloy, a DEA agent who investigates Purdue Pharma
- Peter Berg as Director
Premiere Date
Painkiller premiered on Netflix on August 10, 2023.
Story Plot
Painkiller begins with the story of Billy Cutler, a doctor who is initially prescribed OxyContin for a back injury. Billy quickly becomes addicted to the drug, and he begins to prescribe it to his own patients. As OxyContin use spreads, the Sackler family, who own Purdue Pharma, become immensely wealthy. However, they also become the target of lawsuits and investigations, as it becomes clear that they misled the public about the addictiveness of OxyContin.
The series also follows the stories of other people who have been affected by the opioid crisis, including addicts, families of addicts, and law enforcement officials. It is a powerful and harrowing look at a national tragedy.
Critical Response
Painkiller has received mixed reviews from critics. Some have praised the series for its powerful storytelling and its star-studded cast. Others have criticized the series for its uneven tone and its lack of focus.
My Review
Painkiller: A Must-Watch Documentary About the Opioid Crisis
Painkiller is a six-episode Netflix documentary series that tells the story of the opioid crisis in the United States. The series is based on the book Pain Killer: A Deadly Addiction by Barry Meier, and it follows the rise and fall of OxyContin, the drug that helped to fuel the crisis.
The series features a star-studded cast, including Taylor Kitsch, Matthew Goode, and Rosario Dawson. It is directed by Peter Berg, who is known for his work on films such as Lone Survivor and Patriots Day.
Painkiller is a powerful and important documentary series that tells a story that needs to be told. It is a must-watch for anyone who wants to understand the opioid crisis and its devastating impact on the United States.
The series begins with the story of Billy Cutler, a doctor who is initially prescribed OxyContin for a back injury. Billy quickly becomes addicted to the drug, and he begins to prescribe it to his own patients. As OxyContin use spreads, the Sackler family, who own Purdue Pharma, become immensely wealthy. However, they also become the target of lawsuits and investigations, as it becomes clear that they misled the public about the addictiveness of OxyContin.
The series also follows the stories of other people who have been affected by the opioid crisis, including addicts, families of addicts, and law enforcement officials. It is a powerful and harrowing look at a national tragedy.
Painkiller is not an easy watch. It is graphic and disturbing, but it is also essential viewing. The series does a great job of showing the human cost of the opioid crisis, and it raises important questions about the pharmaceutical industry, pain management, and addiction.
If you are interested in learning more about the opioid crisis, then Painkiller is a must-watch. It is a powerful and important documentary series that tells a story that needs to be told.
Here are some of the things that I liked about Painkiller:
- The series is well-researched and informative. It provides a comprehensive overview of the opioid crisis, from its origins to its current state.
- The series is well-made and engaging. The storytelling is clear and concise, and the characters are well-developed.
- The series features a star-studded cast. Taylor Kitsch, Matthew Goode, and Rosario Dawson all give great performances.
- The series is timely and important. The opioid crisis is a major issue in the United States, and Painkiller raises important questions about the crisis.
Here are some of the things that I didn’t like about Painkiller:
- The series can be graphic and disturbing. Some viewers may find the content to be too much to handle.
- The series can be slow-paced at times. The first few episodes in particular can be a bit of a slog.
- The series doesn’t offer any easy solutions to the opioid crisis. It simply presents the facts and raises questions.
Overall, I thought Painkiller was a well-made and informative documentary series. It is a must-watch for anyone who wants to learn more about the opioid crisis.
Life Lessons
Painkiller teaches us a number of important life lessons, including:
- The dangers of addiction
- The importance of transparency in the pharmaceutical industry
- The need for better pain management solutions
- The importance of compassion for those who are struggling with addiction
Conclusion
Painkiller is a powerful and important documentary series that tells a story that needs to be told. It is a must-watch for anyone who wants to understand the opioid crisis and its devastating impact on the United States.