Watch Under the Influence

Under the Influence is a gripping indie drama from 2008, directed by Steve O'Brien and starring Mark Lyons, Pierce Humke, and Jason Reisch. It takes the audience on a rollercoaster ride of emotions, as three young adults navigate the hazards and pitfalls of addiction and recovery. The movie revolves around the characters of Michael (Lyons), Tim (Humke), and Chris (Reisch), who are longtime friends struggling with drug addiction. Michael is a recovering addict who is trying to stay clean and sober after years of substance abuse. Chris is a dealer and user who is always on the lookout for his next fix. Tim is a newcomer to the world of drugs and is quickly becoming engulfed in the culture.

As the movie progresses, we follow the three characters as they try to confront and resolve their addiction problems. Michael is a positive influence on Tim, encouraging him to stay sober and pursue his dreams of becoming a musician. Chris, on the other hand, is a negative influence, dragging Tim down with him as he goes down the path of self-destruction.

The performances by the three leads are impressive, particularly that of Lyons, who gives a nuanced portrayal of a man grappling with his past demons. Humke brings a sense of vulnerability and innocence to his character, making us feel for him as he goes through the highs and lows of drug addiction. Reisch is chilling as Chris, infusing his character with a sense of menace that keeps the audience on edge.

The cinematography in Under the Influence is stunning, with the film capturing the gritty reality of drug addiction and the dark underbelly of society. The muted color palette and the use of handheld cameras add to the sense of rawness and immediacy of the story. The film's soundtrack is also excellent, with original songs that reflect the movie's themes of struggle and redemption.

Throughout the movie, the themes of friendship, addiction, and redemption are explored in ways that are both realistic and poignant. The film never becomes preachy or heavy-handed, but instead, it paints a nuanced portrait of people grappling with their inner demons.

Under the Influence is not an easy watch, as it deals with difficult subject matter and doesn't shy away from the ugly realities of drug addiction. However, it is a well-crafted story that rewards the viewer with moments of hope and redemption. The movie serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of addiction and the importance of seeking help before it's too late.

In conclusion, Under the Influence is a powerful and thought-provoking film that deserves to be seen. It is a testament to the power of cinema to tell engaging and moving stories that stay with us long after the credits roll. Whether you're a fan of independent cinema or just looking for a well-crafted drama, this movie is definitely worth your time.

Under the Influence is a 2008 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 23 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.3.