Mar 22, 2018
Today’s movie is “Take Your Pills” (2018), the Netflix Original documentary directed by Alison Klayman about the use and abuse of prescription amphetamines at universities and in the workplace. The film covers the discovery of amphetamines, how they were marketed and regulated, and how and why the modern usage has skyrocketed.
As a fan of Jack Kerouac and William S. Burroughs, I’ve known for a long time about the use and abuse of amphetamines. Kerouac famously wrote “On The Road” in one sitting with the help of Benzadrine, a combination of two amphetamines, which was originally prescribed as a decongestant. And of course, I watched the rise of Ritalin for treating the likely over-diagnosed cases of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. So, I know that Adderall and Vyvanse are just low-dose amphetamines, or legalized speed.
One of the major goals of “Take Your Pills” (2018) is to examine the modern usages of prescription amphetamines. Adderall has become the drug of choice for universities and workplaces, and not just for people living with ADHD. Klayman speaks with a broad spectrum of prescription amphetamine users, talking about the various reasons why they use it, how it makes them feel, any issues they’ve had, and eventually, their long-term concerns about use. And on a slight tangent, Klayman explores the use of microdosing psilocybin mushrooms and LSD as alternatives to treating various disorders.
The major strength of this documentary is the editing, led by Jennifer Fineran, in coordination with a substantial effects team for a documentary. Each section uses editing that mirrors either the effects *of* amphetamine usage or what are seen as the social triggers *for* amphetamine usage. The sections are tied together with a video game theme, a strong metaphor for the “level up” culture in our hypercompetitive world.
“Take Your Pills” (2018) is an excellent documentary, documenting historic and modern use and abuse of prescription amphetamines. Klayman finds amazing subjects who are able to speak about their experiences, both good and bad, with surprising honesty. The topic is seen at the individual and social level, with many questions about the problem, and at least a few solutions. And I can assure you once the prescription opioid epidemic falls away from the media spotlight, the prescription amphetamine epidemic will be right after it.
Rotten Tomatoes: 56%
Metacritic: 54
One Movie Punch: 8.6/10
“Take Your Pills“ (2018) is rated TV-14 and is streaming on Netflix.