Nick Jarecki: Bringing the Opioid Crisis to the Big Screen
It doesn't care if you're rich or this or that, because it's such a powerful thing for those who are susceptible to it that it can capture anyone.
Nick Jarecki, an accomplished filmmaker, takes a deep dive into the opioid epidemic with his latest film, 'Crisis'. Graduating from NYU film school at just 19, Jarecki has always been a storyteller at heart. His career began with the best-selling book 'Breaking In: How 20 Film Directors Got Their Start', and he has since directed several acclaimed films, including 'Arbitrage'. But 'Crisis' is perhaps his most poignant work yet.
The film, starring Gary Oldman, tackles the opioid crisis through three interwoven stories inspired by real events. It's a gripping thriller that humanizes an issue affecting millions worldwide. In this episode of 'The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return', host Joanie Sigal chats with Jarecki about his journey in making 'Crisis'. Jarecki opens up about the personal loss that spurred him to create the film and the extensive research that went into it.
He shares insights on how pharmaceutical companies have fueled the epidemic and discusses the stark contrast between treating addiction and criminalizing it. The conversation also touches on the long-term health impacts of drug use and the pervasive nature of addiction, which can affect anyone regardless of their background. Jarecki's storytelling weaves together different narratives to paint a comprehensive picture of the crisis.
From Gary Oldman's character, who risks everything to expose the truth, to everyday individuals caught in the web of addiction, 'Crisis' aims to shed light on this pressing issue and inspire action. Whether you've been directly affected by addiction or are looking to understand more about the opioid epidemic, this episode offers a compelling and informative listen. Tune in to hear Jarecki's passionate discussion and gain a deeper understanding of one of today's most critical issues.