The journey of overcoming addiction is often fraught with pain, but it's also filled with moments of profound humanity and redemption. These biopics delve into the lives of individuals who have grappled with alcoholism, offering a raw and honest look at their struggles and triumphs. From musicians to writers, these films not only entertain but also educate, providing insight into the complexities of addiction and the resilience of the human spirit.

The Lost Weekend (1945)
Description: A groundbreaking film for its time, it portrays a writer's four-day drinking binge, capturing the desperation and isolation of alcoholism. It was one of the first films to openly address the topic of alcoholism.
Fact: Ray Milland won an Oscar for Best Actor for his portrayal of Don Birnam. The film also won Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Original Screenplay.


The Days of Wine and Roses (1962)
Description: This classic film examines the destructive nature of alcoholism within a marriage, showing how it can tear apart even the most loving relationships.
Fact: Jack Lemmon and Lee Remick both received Academy Award nominations for their roles.


Barfly (1987)
Description: Based on the life of poet Charles Bukowski, this film captures the life of a down-and-out alcoholic writer who finds solace in bars and his tumultuous relationship with a fellow drinker.
Fact: Mickey Rourke's performance was highly praised, and the film was co-written by Bukowski himself.


Clean and Sober (1988)
Description: Michael Keaton plays a real estate agent whose life spirals out of control due to his cocaine addiction, leading him to seek help in a rehab center.
Fact: The film was praised for its realistic depiction of addiction and recovery, and Keaton's performance was critically acclaimed.


When a Man Loves a Woman (1994)
Description: This drama focuses on the impact of alcoholism on a marriage, showing the struggles of a woman battling her addiction and the toll it takes on her family.
Fact: Meg Ryan's performance was critically acclaimed, and the film was one of the first to explore the effects of alcoholism from the perspective of the spouse.


Leaving Las Vegas (1995)
Description: This film follows the last days of a Hollywood screenwriter who has decided to drink himself to death in Las Vegas. It's a poignant exploration of self-destruction and the unexpected connections that can form in the darkest of times.
Fact: Nicolas Cage won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his role as Ben Sanderson. The film was also nominated for Best Director and Best Adapted Screenplay.


Flight (2012)
Description: Denzel Washington stars as a pilot whose heroic actions save a plane from crashing, but his subsequent investigation reveals his struggle with alcoholism.
Fact: Denzel Washington received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor for his performance.


Smashed (2012)
Description: A young couple's relationship is tested when one of them decides to get sober, exploring the challenges of sobriety and the dynamics of a relationship where one partner is still drinking.
Fact: The film premiered at the Sundance Film Festival and received positive reviews for its realistic portrayal of alcoholism.


28 Days (2000)
Description: After a public incident, a woman is sentenced to 28 days in rehab, where she confronts her drinking problem and learns about herself and her relationships.
Fact: Sandra Bullock plays the lead role, and the film was inspired by real-life experiences of people in rehab.


My Name Is Bill W. (1989)
Description: This made-for-TV movie tells the story of Bill Wilson, co-founder of Alcoholics Anonymous, detailing his battle with alcoholism and his journey to sobriety, which led to the creation of one of the most influential recovery programs in the world.
Fact: The film was produced by Hallmark Hall of Fame and starred James Woods as Bill Wilson.
