Painful Prescription: A Review of Netflix’s OxyContin Drama “Painkiller”

Review: Netflix‘s OxyContin drama ‘Painkiller‘ falls short of expectations

A Missed Opportunity to Tell an Important Story

Netflix‘s limited series “Painkiller” attempts to tackle the devastating impact of OxyContin, the controversial drug manufactured by Purdue Pharma, in the context of the opioid epidemic. However, the show fails to live up to expectations and offers a disjointed and unsatisfactory viewing experience. While the intentions behind the series may have been noble, the execution leaves much to be desired.

One of the central criticisms of “Painkiller” is its lack of originality. Hulu’s limited series, “Dopesick,” released just a year earlier, covered similar ground and delivered a more compelling narrative. Both series focus on the role of Purdue Pharma and its drug OxyContin in fueling the opioid crisis. While “Painkiller” boasts a star-studded cast, including Matthew Broderick and Taylor Kitsch, it fails to create characters that resonate with the audience. The performances are lackluster, and the writing does not give them much to work with.

A Lack of Gravitas and Direction

“Painkiller” suffers from a fundamental flaw – it fails to treat the opioid epidemic with the seriousness it deserves. The show’s hyper-stylized approach, filled with fantasy sequences and ghostly apparitions, detracts from the gravity of the subject matter. The decision to adopt a magical realist farce undermines the credibility of the story and disrespects the real-life consequences of the opioid crisis.

Additionally, the series lacks a clear point of view. It fails to offer a perspective that goes beyond the surface-level narrative. “Dopesick,” on the other hand, delved deeper into the science and politics of OxyContin‘s creation and the insidious spread of opioid addiction in society. It provided a more nuanced exploration of the issue, making it a significant contribution to the understanding of the opioid crisis.

A Disconnected and Confusing Narrative

“Painkiller” struggles to maintain coherence in its storytelling. The narrative is told out of sequence, mirroring a trend in contemporary TV shows and movies. However, in this case, the non-linear format detracts from the emotional impact of the story. The jumbled timeline prevents the audience from building a connection with the characters and understanding the full extent of their struggles. The disjointed approach to storytelling is ultimately to the series’ detriment.

The characterization in “Painkiller” is another notable shortcoming. Taylor Kitsch, known for his acting prowess, fails to bring depth to his character, Glen Kryger, an everyman who becomes addicted to OxyContin after injuring his back. Glen feels more like a symbol than a fully realized person, making it difficult for the audience to empathize with his plight. The same can be said for the other characters in the series, who lack the necessary development to evoke genuine emotions.

A Lost Opportunity for Social Commentary

“Dopesick” distinguished itself by its unyielding social commentary on the pharmaceutical industry’s role in the opioid crisis. It held Purdue Pharma accountable for their unethical actions, leaving no member of the drug-pushing establishment off the hook. In contrast, “Painkiller” falls short in this regard. It attempts to redeem one of its characters, a representation of the company’s wrongdoings, and fails to address the larger systemic issues at play. The show’s message becomes lost in the campy and over-the-top presentation.

Editorial: A call for responsible storytelling

The opioid crisis is an ongoing tragedy affecting countless individuals and families around the world. It demands a thoughtful and responsible approach when addressing it through popular media. While it is important to shed light on the role of companies like Purdue Pharma, any attempt to do so must be executed with care and reverence for the real-life victims of this epidemic.

“Painkiller” missed an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the conversation surrounding the opioid crisis. Its reliance on artistic gimmicks and lack of narrative depth did a disservice to the seriousness of the subject matter. When tackling social issues of this magnitude, creators have a responsibility to provide a nuanced and empathetic portrayal, ensuring that the story remains grounded in reality and respects the experiences of those affected.

Advice: Seek out ‘Dopesick’ for a more impactful viewing experience

For those seeking a comprehensive exploration of the opioid epidemic, “Dopesick” remains the superior choice. The series, spearheaded by Michael Keaton, offers a harrowing and compelling narrative that delves into the heartbreaking personal stories impacted by Purdue Pharma’s actions. It educates viewers on the intricacies of the crisis while maintaining a gripping and thought-provoking storyline.

In times when issues of immense social importance are brought to the screen, it is crucial to support works that handle them with the gravity and respect they deserve. “Painkiller” may have fallen short, but the conversation it attempts to spark should not be ignored. Let it serve as a reminder for both content creators and audiences to uphold the values of responsible storytelling.