Family Films Tackling Alcoholism

Description: A classic film that delves into the life of an alcoholic writer, Don Birnam, portrayed by Ray Milland. It's a stark, unflinching look at the descent into alcoholism and its effect on his brother and girlfriend.

Fact: This film was groundbreaking for its time, winning the Academy Award for Best Picture and being one of the first to address alcoholism in such a direct manner.

Description: Jack Lemmon and Lee Remick star as a couple whose lives are torn apart by alcoholism. The film explores the destructive nature of addiction and its impact on their marriage and family life.

Fact: The film was adapted from a 1958 Playhouse 90 teleplay, and its title comes from the poem "With a Song in My Heart" by Lorenz Hart.

Description: Michael Keaton plays Daryl Poynter, a real estate agent whose life spirals out of control due to cocaine addiction. The film shows his journey through rehab and the strain it puts on his relationships, particularly with his girlfriend, played by Kathy Baker.

Fact: Keaton's performance was praised for its raw intensity, and the film was noted for its realistic portrayal of addiction recovery.

Description: This film explores the impact of alcoholism on a marriage, focusing on how Alice Green's struggle with alcohol affects her relationship with her husband Michael, played by Meg Ryan and Andy Garcia respectively. It's a poignant look at recovery and the ripple effects on family dynamics.

Fact: The film was one of the first mainstream Hollywood movies to tackle the subject of alcoholism in a family setting with such depth. Meg Ryan's performance was critically acclaimed for its authenticity.

Description: Nicolas Cage gives an unforgettable performance as Ben Sanderson, an alcoholic screenwriter who moves to Las Vegas to drink himself to death. The film also examines his relationship with a prostitute, Sera, played by Elisabeth Shue, and how his addiction affects their bond.

Fact: Cage won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his role, and the film was praised for its honest depiction of alcoholism.

Description: This coming-of-age story features Sutter Keely, a high school senior with a drinking problem, played by Miles Teller. It explores his relationship with Aimee, a quiet classmate, and how his alcoholism impacts their future together.

Fact: The film was adapted from a novel by Tim Tharp and was praised for its realistic portrayal of teenage drinking and its consequences.

Description: Denzel Washington stars as Whip Whitaker, a pilot who heroically lands a plane but is later revealed to have been under the influence of alcohol and drugs. The film examines his struggle with addiction and the consequences on his personal and professional life.

Fact: Washington's performance was widely acclaimed, and the film sparked discussions about substance abuse in high-stress professions.

Description: Mary Elizabeth Winstead stars as Kate Hannah, a teacher whose drinking problem spirals out of control. The film follows her journey through sobriety, highlighting the strain on her marriage and her relationship with her students.

Fact: Winstead received critical acclaim for her performance, and the film was noted for its sensitive handling of the subject matter.

Description: Ben Affleck plays Jack Cunningham, a former basketball star whose life has been derailed by alcoholism. The film focuses on his return to coaching and the personal redemption he seeks through helping his team.

Fact: Affleck drew from his own experiences with alcoholism to bring authenticity to his role.

Description: Sandra Bullock stars as Gwen Cummings, a woman who must enter a rehab center after a drunk driving incident. The film captures her journey through addiction, recovery, and the impact on her family, offering both humor and heartache.

Fact: The film was inspired by real-life experiences of people in recovery, and Bullock herself visited rehab centers to prepare for her role.