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DRUG$ is a 2018 documentary feature that takes a critical look at the pharmaceutical industry in the United States, examining the ways in which drug prices and access to medicine are shaped by powerful corporations and government policies. The film is directed by Jonathan Marshall Thompson and features interviews with a range of experts, including doctors, politicians, patient advocacy groups and journalists.

The film opens with a stark statistic: the United States spends more on healthcare per person than any other country in the world, but receives worse health outcomes than many countries with lower healthcare spending. The film begins to explore why this is the case by focusing on the role of the pharmaceutical industry in this complex ecosystem.

DRUG$ dives into the inner workings of the industry, exploring the research and development process that leads to new drugs being brought to market. The film highlights the financial pressures that this process puts on pharmaceutical companies, and examines the ways in which this can lead to unethical and dangerous practices.

One of the major themes of the film is the way in which drug pricing is determined in the US. DRUG$ argues that the pricing models used by pharmaceutical companies are flawed, and that the system is rigged against patients who need life-saving medication but cannot afford it. The film speaks to patients who have been bankrupted by drug costs, and exposes the ways in which drugmakers exploit patent loopholes to keep prices high.

DRUG$ also delves into the influence that pharmaceutical companies exert on politics and policy-making. The film features interviews with politicians who have tried to push back against corporate lobbying, and activists who are advocating for greater transparency in the industry. One of the most striking interviews in the film features Congressman Elijah Cummings, who passed away shortly after the film was released. Cummings speaks passionately about his belief that the pharmaceutical industry is abusing its power, and calls on lawmakers to take action.

Throughout DRUG$, the filmmakers offer a sobering analysis of the dire state of America's healthcare system. But they also highlight some of the positive steps that are being taken to counteract the power of the pharmaceutical industry. The film features interviews with doctors who are developing alternative treatment models, and with patient support groups who are fighting to make medication more affordable.

Overall, DRUG$ is an insightful and thought-provoking documentary that shines a light on some of the most pressing challenges facing America's healthcare system. The film offers a compelling case for change, and provides a platform for those who are fighting for greater transparency, accountability and affordability in the pharmaceutical industry.

DRUG$ is a 2018 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 20 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.6.