A captivating new limited series is set to hit Netflix this week, shedding light on the origins and consequences of the devastating opioid crisis.
Titled “Painkiller,” this fictionalized retelling of events is brought to life by executive producers Eric Newman (known for NARCOS) and Peter Berg (of Friday Night Lights fame), along with Alex Gibney. The series features a talented cast including Uzo Aduba, Matthew Broderick, and Taylor Kitsch.
“Painkiller” draws inspiration from two prominent sources: the book “Pain Killer: An Empire of Deceit and the Origin of America’s Opioid Epidemic” by Barry Meier, and the New Yorker article titled “The Family That Built an Empire of Pain” by Patrick Radden Keefe.
Through this fictionalized lens, the show delves into the complexities of the opioid crisis, exploring its roots, aftermath, and the far-reaching impact it has had on countless lives. It also presents a thought-provoking examination of crime, accountability, and the failures of various systems that have repeatedly let down hundreds of thousands of Americans.
The talented ensemble cast brings their characters to life with remarkable performances. Uzo Aduba, known for her roles in “Orange Is the New Black” and “The Residence,” portrays Edie Flowers, a tenacious lawyer working for the US attorney’s office. Edie is deeply involved in investigating the dangerous new drug OxyContin. Matthew Broderick, renowned for his roles in “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” and “Election,” takes on the role of Richard Sackler, a senior executive at Purdue Pharma and scion of a billionaire family. Taylor Kitsch, recognized for his work in “Friday Night Lights” and “True Detective,” portrays Glen Kryger, a hardworking family man and business owner whose life is turned upside down following an injury.
Joining the ensemble is West Duchovny, playing Shannon Schaeffer, an ex-college athlete who becomes a new recruit on the Purdue sales team. Dina Shihabi brings Britt Hufford to life, a seasoned sales representative who becomes Shannon’s mentor. John Rothman portrays Mortimer Sackler, Richard Sackler’s uncle and co-owner of Purdue Pharma. Tyler Ritter plays the role of US Attorney John Brownlee, Edie Flowers’ new boss.
With its compelling storyline and talented cast, “Painkiller” will hit on Thursday, 10 August.
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