Movie Review Four Good Days (2020)

 

 

Four Good Days | 2020 | 1h 40m
Genre: Psychological Drama/Drama | Country: US
Director: Rodrigo García | Writers: Eli Saslow, Rodrigo García, Amanda Wendler
Cast: Mila Kunis, Carla Gallo, Glenn Close
IMDB: 6.6
My Rate: 10/10

Deb confronts her daughter, Molly, who's trying to overcome a 10-year addiction to drugs.  It's a difficult struggle, as Molly has relapsed numerous times.

Warnings:

Contains sexual content, alcohol use, drug use, and strong language.

 
Synopsis:

Molly (Mila Kunis) asks her mother, Deb (Glenn Close), to let her stay at her house. Molly is a drug addict, having used drugs for 10 years. She's repeatedly promised Deb she'd quit, but always relapses.

Deb is weary of Molly's promises and initially refuses, wanting Molly to be clean before returning.  Molly insists on staying.

Deb takes Molly to rehab for three days.  Molly endures the difficult withdrawal process.

The doctor says Molly needs monthly injections to help manage cravings but only if she stays clean for an additional four days; otherwise, the injection would be toxic.

Deb takes Molly home, though she's hesitant to fully trust Molly due to past lies.  Molly shows promising changes, seeming genuinely committed to recovery.

However, Molly reconnects with her drug-using friends, causing Deb to lose faith, especially when Molly disappears.

Does Molly succeed in recovery?

 
Review:

Four Good Days is based on Eli Saslow's Washington Post article, "How's Amanda? A Story of Truth, Lies, and an American Addiction."  The story powerfully portrays the struggles of a drug addict and their family.

The background and characters are well-developed. The conflict flows naturally, and the resolution is skillfully handled.  The systematic presentation makes the story easy to follow

Many reviews from former drug users offer positive responses, while others say the film doesn't fully capture the experience.  Nevertheless, the story feels realistic and emotionally resonant.

The story resonates with addicts and their families, showing the difficulty of breaking free from addiction and the frustration families experience.  The film also highlights the importance of a supportive environment.

The camera work and attention to detail are excellent.  Mila Kunis's transformation is convincing, and her acting is compelling.  The other actors are also superb.

Overall, this film is a worthwhile watch.

 
Memorable Scene:

Molly disappears, and Deb visits Molly's father. Deb is disappointed by his apparent apathy towards Molly's recovery efforts and lack of support.  He says he can't do anything; change must come from within.

This scene shows there's no right or wrong in their dialogue. Change won't happen without internal motivation, regardless of external support.  However, that doesn't diminish the importance of support from those around them.

 

Memorable Dialogue:

"I just want now to be now."

 

Ending:

Happy Ending (Maybe)

 

Recommendation:

Must Watch

 

(Aluna)