This review may contain spoilers. I can handle the truth.
Heathbulich’s review published on Letterboxd:
This review may contain spoilers.
Filling the void
This film was a solid depiction of what an addict goes through feels and ultimately thinks of or goes through in my opinion. I feel the author of the novel this film was based on had to be in recovery and understands the struggles, hurdles, feelings, and situations. This film captures just the feelings and real-life struggles one faces. I am left almost speechless as to the reality the film captures.
Being someone in recovery and afflicted with the disease of addiction I can truly say I related to everything in this film. It truly captures the true ups and downs one can face. I felt it surreal especially when the woman shares in the group that at this point in her life, she is right back at the beginning with the void she needs to fill. The same void she was trying to fill when she began using drugs. That feeling of hopelessness of less than ness is something this film captures in pure emotion.
When Anders is in the job interview, I found myself saying just be honest with the editor and he might give you a chance. Anders is ultimately honest but then lets his emotions get the best of him as so many young people in these situations can do. In one swell reaction throws away what might have been the opportunity he needed to keep carrying on. Also, his interactions with friends and family were so spot on with what one tends to have as an experience as emotions brought on by past feelings and resentments accompanied by feelings of missing a loved one and what they used to be as his sister’s girlfriend, as well as his friend mijams, express.
I think this film gives a realistic and emotion-driven experience of how a person in addictions life can be summed up so quickly. Not being able to feel love for what you should feel love for. Not feeling loved by the ones you think should. The feeling of hopelessness, fear, and no self-worth can drive you to the ultimate decision to decide that what you have done will never correct what you had done in the past leading to the single unforgiving act that Anders carries out at the end. This film is a superb emotional masterpiece.