Episode 1: Tommy SwerdlowEpisode 1: Tommy Swerdlow
The Drunkalogues
Filmmaker Tommy Swerdlow who wrote THE GRINCH and COOL RUNNINGS as well as wrote, directed and starred in the recent cult comedy A THOUSAND JUNKIES talks about his twenty year heroin habit while operating at the very top of the Hollywood food chain....
53:03•3 Nov 2018
Tommy Swerdlow: From Heroin Addiction to Hollywood Triumph
“In the face of a gale of no to go out every day and go, we're going to tell the story, because we have a take and we know what it is, and we don't really know how to make a movie, which I mean there's also a childlike nature to the addicts mindset, and that was our take about addiction.”
Tommy Swerdlow’s story is nothing short of extraordinary. In this episode of The Drunkalogues, Nick Morton sits down with the screenwriter who brought us 'The Grinch' and 'Cool Runnings'. But before the Hollywood success, there was a 20-year battle with heroin. Swerdlow opens up about the dark days when addiction ruled his life, leading him to multiple near-death experiences and blood transfusions. Yet, amidst the chaos, he never lost his passion for writing.
His journey back to health included not just physical recovery through Pilates but also a mental shift towards self-responsibility—a cornerstone of Alcoholics Anonymous. Swerdlow’s tale is one of grit and resilience, proving that even in the face of relentless rejection and self-doubt, perseverance can lead to incredible achievements. If you’re looking for an inspiring story of recovery, creativity, and the power of showing up, this episode is a must-listen.
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