Paul Perrier: Capturing Addiction's Raw Reality Through Film
Episode Overview
Paul Perrier shares the story behind 'Cracked Wide Open,' a raw and unplanned documentary The documentary captures the struggles of addiction and the journey to sobriety Paul highlights the role of art in the healing process and inspiring recovery Insights into the impact of addiction on individuals and the importance of understanding and compassion The podcast delves into the complexities of addiction, trauma, and the power of storytelling
I think addiction is something that affects a lot of people, maybe even everybody. And you're right, trauma is usually what leads to it.
Imagine being in a downtown Toronto hotel room, camera in hand, capturing the harrowing journey of someone battling addiction. This is the reality for filmmaker Paul Perrier, whose work in 'Crack Not Broken' offers an unfiltered glimpse into the struggles of addiction. In this episode, Paul opens up about his evolution from a photographer to a documentary filmmaker, sharing the story behind his powerful memoir 'Cracked Wide Open'.
His commitment to truth-telling and his compassionate approach shine through as he discusses the making of his raw, real-time documentary that follows his ex-wife’s oldest friend, a woman ensnared by crack cocaine dependency and turning to prostitution to sustain her habit. Shot in just one hour, this film isn't just a narrative—it's a call for change.
Paul's aim was not only to support the subject's journey to sobriety but also to spark broader awareness and inspire others on their path to recovery. Through his lens, Paul captures the human condition in its most vulnerable state, hoping to break the stigma around addiction and offer a beacon of hope. Tune in for an insider's look into Paul's impactful work and how art can be a powerful tool for healing and understanding.