Movies About Sobriety On Netflix

From Quentin Tarantino, starring John Travolta, Uma Thurman, Samuel L. Jackson, Bruce Willis
Rated R

Pulp Fiction is an iconic and influential crime film written and directed by Quentin Tarantino, released in 1994. The film follows multiple interrelated storylines, featuring a cast of criminals and lowlifes in the underworld of Los Angeles. These characters include the professional hitman Vincent Vega (John Travolta) and his partner Jules Winnfield (Samuel L. Jackson), who are hired by mob boss Marsellus Wallace (Ving Rhames) to retrieve a mysterious briefcase that has been stolen from him. As the two attempt to retrieve the briefcase, they cross paths with a variety of criminals and criminals-to-be, including boxer Butch Coolidge (Bruce Willis), gangsters Pumpkin and Honey Bunny (Tim Roth and Amanda Plummer), and the mobster's wife Mia (Uma Thurman). As their paths intertwine in unexpected and often outrageous ways, they navigate the complex and morally ambiguous world of organized crime.

From Martin Scorsese, starring Robert De Niro, Ray Liotta, Joe Pesci, Lorraine Bracco
Rated R

Goodfellas is a 1990 American crime film directed by Martin Scorsese, based on the 1986 non-fiction book “Wiseguy” by Nicholas Pileggi. The movie follows the story of Henry Hill, a young man of Italian descent, who grows up idolizing the “wise guys” in his neighborhood in Brooklyn, New York City. He becomes part of their world, working his way up from small-time criminal to a full-fledged member of the Mafia. Along the way, Henry and his close friends participate in a range of criminal activities, including robbery, extortion, and drug trafficking. As Hill's success and ambition grow, they become increasingly reckless, ultimately leading to a spectacular downfall. The film stars Ray Liotta, Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci, and Lorraine Bracco, and is recognized as one of the greatest films of all time.

From Directors: Fernando Meirelles, Kátia Lund, starring Alexandre Rodrigues, Leandro Firmino, Matheus Nachtergaele, Phellipe Haagensen
Rated R

City of God is a 2002 crime drama film directed by Fernando Meirelles and Kátia Lund. Set in the Cidade de Deus suburb of Rio de Janeiro, the film tells the story of two boys growing up in a violent neighborhood and the choices they make that shape their lives. Rocket, an aspiring photographer, is determined to escape the poverty and violence, while Li'l Zé, a violent and power-hungry drug dealer, is determined to become the most powerful kingpin in the city. Despite their different paths, the two boys come to realize that their choices have lasting consequences and ultimately decide to shape their own destinies. The film follows their stories as they grapple with family, friendship, loyalty, violence, and power. City of God is a gripping and intense story about two boys and the difficult choices they make in order to survive.

From Darren Aronofsky, starring Ellen Burstyn, Jared Leto, Jennifer Connelly, Marlon Wayans
Rated R

Requiem for a Dream tells the story of four individuals whose lives become intertwined as their addictions to drugs and television spiral out of control. Sarah Goldfarb is an elderly widow whose addiction to diet pills leads her to an obsession with appearing on a television show. Her son Harry and his girlfriend Marion become trapped in an increasingly destructive cycle of heroin use, while Harry's best friend Tyrone is arrested and sent to prison. As their lives continue to spiral downward, they all struggle to find their way back to reality. The film is a powerful, emotionally intense exploration of addiction, and the devastating effects it can have on individuals and those around them.

From Brian De Palma, starring Al Pacino, Michelle Pfeiffer, Steven Bauer, Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio
Rated R

Scarface is a 1983 American crime film directed by Brian De Palma and written by Oliver Stone. The film follows Cuban refugee Tony Montana (Al Pacino) as he rises to the top of the Miami drug trade, with the help of his friend Manny Ray (Steven Bauer). Montana becomes a powerful drug lord, and his life of excess and violence eventually leads to his downfall. The film is a highly stylized take on the rise and fall of a gangster, and is known for its over-the-top violence and profanity. The soundtrack, composed by Giorgio Moroder, is also highly acclaimed. Scarface has become an iconic film, and is considered one of the definitive gangster films of all time.

From Martin Scorsese, starring Robert De Niro, Sharon Stone, Joe Pesci, James Woods
Rated R

Casino is a 1995 crime drama directed by Martin Scorsese, starring Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci and Sharon Stone. The story follows Sam "Ace" Rothstein (De Niro), a Jewish American gambling expert who is asked by the mob to oversee the day-to-day operations at the Tangiers Casino in Las Vegas. Despite his success, Ace's life is undermined by his friend Nicky Santoro (Pesci) and his wife Ginger (Stone). As Ace and Nicky come to blows, Ginger's past catches up with her, and the mafia's control over the casino begins to slip. Despite his own good intentions, Ace's life spins out of control, and the movie culminates in a gripping and powerful climax.

From Guy Ritchie, starring Jason Flemyng, Dexter Fletcher, Nick Moran, Jason Statham
Rated R

Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels is a British crime-comedy directed by Guy Ritchie. The film follows four London working class friends who decide to make some extra money by gambling in an illegal high stakes card game. When they lose, they owe a large sum of money to a powerful and dangerous crime lord, and are forced to take on a heist to pay off the debt. The friends, along with two small-time crooks and two ex-cons, become involved in a complex web of double-crosses and comic capers. The film features a large ensemble cast of British actors, including Jason Statham, Dexter Fletcher, Nick Moran, Jason Flemyng, and Vinnie Jones. Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels is a fun and fast-paced crime adventure, filled with black humor and witty dialogue.

From Gavin O'Connor, starring Tom Hardy, Nick Nolte, Joel Edgerton, Jennifer Morrison
Rated PG-13

Warrior is a 2011 drama film directed by Gavin O'Connor. The film tells the story of two estranged brothers who, against all odds, find themselves competing against each other in a mixed martial arts tournament. As the brothers struggle to reconnect with each other, they must also confront their past and the demons that have haunted them for years. Along the way, they discover that their strength lies not only in their fists, but in the bond of their family. The film stars Tom Hardy, Joel Edgerton, Nick Nolte, Jennifer Morrison and Frank Grillo. The film was a critical success, earning a 89% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a nominated for numerous awards, including an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actor (Nick Nolte).

From Danny Boyle, starring Ewan McGregor, Ewen Bremner, Jonny Lee Miller, Kevin McKidd
Rated R

Trainspotting is a 1996 British black comedy-drama film directed by Danny Boyle and starring Ewan McGregor, Ewen Bremner, Jonny Lee Miller, Kevin McKidd, and Robert Carlyle. The film is based on the novel of the same name by Irvine Welsh. Set in Edinburgh, Scotland, the film follows the lives of a group of heroin addicts and their struggles with drug use and its effects on their lives. The film follows the protagonist, Mark Renton, and his friends as they go through a series of adventures and misadventures, including dealing with addiction, crime, and poverty. The film is filled with dark humor and graphic scenes depicting the effects of drugs on the human body. Trainspotting is a cult classic and has been celebrated for its bold subject matter and its unique vision of British culture.

From Mike Nichols, starring Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, George Segal, Sandy Dennis
Rated Not Rated

Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf is a 1966 American drama film directed by Mike Nichols and written by Ernest Lehman, based on the play of the same name by Edward Albee. Starring Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, the film follows an aging couple, Martha and George, as they invite a younger couple, Nick and Honey, over for a night of alcohol-fueled mind games. Throughout the night, Martha and George expose their dark secrets to the younger couple, all while engaging in psychological warfare that leads to a shocking climax. The film won five Academy Awards and cemented Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton as one of Hollywood's most iconic couples.

From Alan Parker, starring Bob Geldof, Christine Hargreaves, James Laurenson, Eleanor David
Rated R

Pink Floyd: The Wall is a 1982 British musical psychological drama film directed by Alan Parker, based on the 1979 Pink Floyd album of the same name. The film centers around a young British rock star, Pink, who is driven into insanity by the death of his father during the World War II, combined with the pressures of his fame and lifestyle. Pink begins to build a metaphorical wall around himself to be protected from the world, but this gradually turns him into an emotionless, isolated figure. With the help of his music, Pink is able to confront the pain he has suffered and eventually break down the wall he has built around himself, allowing him to reconnect with his true self.

From Paul Thomas Anderson, starring Mark Wahlberg, Julianne Moore, Burt Reynolds, Luis Guzmán
Rated R

Boogie Nights is a 1997 American drama film written and directed by Paul Thomas Anderson. Set in the San Fernando Valley during the late 1970s and early '80s, the film follows the rise and fall of a young pornstar named Eddie Adams (Mark Wahlberg). After being discovered by veteran adult film director Jack Horner (Burt Reynolds), Eddie quickly rises to fame in the burgeoning porn industry, adopting the stage name "Dirk Diggler". His newfound success brings him into contact with an eclectic group of porn stars and filmmakers, including his best friend Reed Rothchild (John C. Reilly), Amber Waves (Julianne Moore), and Rollergirl (Heather Graham). Though Eddie initially enjoys the hedonistic lifestyle the porn industry offers, his own personal struggles and the emergence of the VHS revolution ultimately lead to his downfall. The film is a multi-faceted look at the porn industry in the late 70s and 80s, exploring themes of ambition, fame, and the consequences of excess.

From Richard Brooks, starring Elizabeth Taylor, Paul Newman, Burl Ives, Jack Carson
Rated Not Rated

Cat on a Hot Tin Roof is a 1958 American drama film directed by Richard Brooks and starring Elizabeth Taylor, Paul Newman and Burl Ives. The film is a adaptation of the Pulitzer Prize-winning play of the same name by Tennessee Williams. The film revolves around the characters of Maggie (Elizabeth Taylor), Brick (Paul Newman), and Big Daddy (Burl Ives). Maggie and Brick are facing a crisis in their marriage, Brick's disaffection with life, and Big Daddy's impending death. Big Daddy's family is also dealing with the inheritance of his wealth, as well as secrets and lies that have been kept from him. As the story progresses, secrets are revealed and relationships are tested as the characters confront their mortality and their morality.

From Blake Edwards, starring Jack Lemmon, Lee Remick, Charles Bickford, Jack Klugman
Rated Approved

Days of Wine and Roses is a 1962 drama-romance film directed by Blake Edwards and starring Jack Lemmon and Lee Remick. It tells the story of Joe Clay (Lemmon) and Kirsten Arnesen (Remick), a young married couple whose lives become consumed by alcoholism. After initially enjoying each other’s company while drinking, their romance quickly turns into a downward spiral of addiction that leads to divorce, job loss, and a desperate attempt to regain sobriety. The film follows their struggles to recover, and eventually reclaim the life they once had together. The film is a powerful examination of the insidious nature of alcoholism and its effects on families, friends, and loved ones.

From Directors: Dan Carracino, Kevin Hanlon, starring Bill Wilson, Dr. Bob, Blake J. Evans, Chris Gates
Rated Unrated

Bill W. is a feature-length documentary about the life and legacy of Bill Wilson, the co-founder of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). The film follows Wilson's inspiring journey from his early days as a stockbroker to his transformation into a spiritual leader who helped millions of people find sobriety and a new way of life. The film examines the spiritual awakenings that led Wilson to develop the 12-Step program, his struggles with his own alcoholism, and his lasting impact on the entire recovery movement. The film features interviews with historians, experts, and family members, as well as archival footage, audio recordings, and photographs. Ultimately, Bill W. is a story of human resilience, hope, and transformation.

From James Mangold, starring Joaquin Phoenix, Reese Witherspoon, Ginnifer Goodwin, Robert Patrick
Rated PG-13

Walk the Line is a 2005 biographical drama directed by James Mangold. The film follows Johnny Cash (Joaquin Phoenix), from his early childhood and teenage years to his rise to fame as a country music legend, and his marriage to June Carter (Reese Witherspoon). The film explores Johnny's struggles with poverty, drug abuse, and his inner demons, as well as his passionate love for June, both personally and musically. The film culminates at a famous performance of Cash at Folsom Prison, where he earns the respect of his fellow inmates through his music. Through his struggles and success, Cash finds his true identity and purpose, and discovers that real happiness comes from having faith and a sense of purpose.

From Ridley Scott, starring Denzel Washington, Russell Crowe, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Josh Brolin
Rated R

American Gangster is a 2007 crime film directed by Ridley Scott and written by Steven Zaillian. The movie follows the true story of Frank Lucas, a New York gangster who rose to the top of the drug empire in the early 1970s. After serving time in prison, Lucas returns to Harlem and begins to build an immense drug empire. Lucas is soon targeted by a determined cop played by Denzel Washington and an ambitious federal prosecutor, played by Russell Crowe. The two men are determined to bring Lucas down, but Lucas is just as determined to stay one step ahead of them. As their battle wages, Lucas eventually finds himself at odds with his own crime family. Ultimately, Lucas is forced to confront his own past and legacy in order to save those closest to him.

From Billy Corben, starring Jon Roberts, Al Sunshine, Sam Burstyn, Mickey Munday
Rated R

Cocaine Cowboys is a 2006 documentary film directed by Billy Corben. It is based on the Miami drug wars of the 1970s and 1980s. It tells the story of how the drug cartels of Colombia and Cuba changed the face of Miami forever. The film follows the rise of the cocaine trade in Miami and its impact on the city. It includes interviews with law enforcement officials, drug traffickers, and other people involved in the cocaine trade. The documentary also chronicles the violent battles that raged between rival drug gangs and the law enforcement agencies that sought to bring them down. Cocaine Cowboys is an eye-opening look into the dark side of the American Dream and a powerful reminder of the destructive power of drugs.

From David O. Russell, starring Mark Wahlberg, Christian Bale, Amy Adams, Melissa Leo
Rated R

The Fighter is a 2010 biographical sports drama directed by David O. Russell. It tells the true story of the "Irish" Micky Ward (Mark Wahlberg) and his half-brother Dicky Eklund (Christian Bale), two boxers from Lowell, Massachusetts. Despite having a promising career, Micky is held back by his troubled family, including his drug-addicted, manipulative mother Alice (Melissa Leo) and his older half-brother Dicky, a former welterweight champion who is now in his 50s and struggling with drug addiction. Micky eventually meets high-profile trainer Mickey O'Keefe (Jack McGee), who helps him get back on track and pursue his dream of becoming a champion. With O'Keefe's guidance, Micky is able to rise through the ranks and win a fight against the reigning champ. He also reconciles with his brother, who is also on a road to redemption. The Fighter shows how Micky and Dicky's dedication to each other, and their commitment to boxing, help them overcome their personal struggles and reach their goals.

From Taylor Hackford, starring Jamie Foxx, Regina King, Kerry Washington, Clifton Powell
Rated PG-13

Ray is a biographical drama film directed by Taylor Hackford and starring Jamie Foxx, who won an Academy Award for his performance. The film follows the extraordinary life of rhythm and blues musician Ray Charles, from his humble beginnings in Georgia, to the height of his success in the music industry over the course of five decades. Through his struggles with race, addiction, and personal loss, the film highlights Charles’ incredible tenacity and resiliency. With help from his mother, his friends and associates, and his own perseverance, Charles ultimately rises to become one of the most influential and beloved musicians of the 20th century.

From Antoine Fuqua, starring Denzel Washington, Ethan Hawke, Scott Glenn, Tom Berenger
Rated R

Training Day is a 2001 crime thriller film directed by Antoine Fuqua starring Denzel Washington and Ethan Hawke. The film follows Alonzo Harris (Washington), a corrupt LAPD officer who takes his rookie partner Jake Hoyt (Hawke) on a 24-hour training day to show him the ruthless tactics used by the department. Alonzo has a history of bending the law and even encourages Jake to do the same. As the day progresses, Jake discovers the truth behind Alonzo's methods and is forced to decide between doing what he knows is right and protecting himself from Alonzo's wrath. The film is a tense, thrilling ride as the two officers face off in a life or death situation.

From William Friedkin, starring Gene Hackman, Roy Scheider, Fernando Rey, Tony Lo Bianco
Rated R

The French Connection is a 1971 American action-thriller film directed by William Friedkin and starring Gene Hackman and Roy Scheider. It follows two New York City narcotics police officers as they investigate and pursue a French connection in an effort to stop the flow of heroin into the United States. The story follows the two detectives, Popeye Doyle and Buddy Russo, as they become entangled in a web of international intrigue involving the French mafia, corrupt cops, and a drug kingpin. With the help of an informant, the two detectives close in on the French heroin operation, culminating in a spectacular car chase scene through New York City. The French Connection won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor (Gene Hackman), Best Adapted Screenplay, and Best Film Editing.

From Alexander Payne, starring Bruce Dern, Will Forte, June Squibb, Bob Odenkirk
Rated R

Nebraska is a 2013 American black-and-white comedy-drama film directed by Alexander Payne and written by Bob Nelson. The film stars Bruce Dern, Will Forte, June Squibb, Bob Odenkirk, and Stacy Keach. The film follows the story of an aging, alcoholic father (Dern) who makes the trip from Montana to Nebraska to collect what he believes to be a million-dollar sweepstakes prize. His son (Forte) reluctantly agrees to accompany him on the journey, and the two begin to bond and confront their strained relationship along the way. The film focuses on the themes of family and personal identity, and the bittersweet nature of aging and mortality. It was nominated for six Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and has since become a cult classic.

From Richard Linklater, starring Jason London, Wiley Wiggins, Matthew McConaughey, Rory Cochrane
Rated R

Dazed and Confused is a 1993 coming-of-age comedy film directed by Richard Linklater. The film follows the lives of the teenagers of a small Texas town on the last day of high school in 1976. On this day, the graduating seniors are hazed by the incoming freshmen, and the upperclassmen party and get into various misadventures. The film explores the complexities of relationships between generations, as well as themes of freedom, partying, and growing up. Along the way, the characters deal with issues of unrequited love, adolescent rebellion, and cliques. The film stars a young Matthew McConaughey and includes other up-and-coming actors such as Ben Affleck, Parker Posey, and Milla Jovovich. The film is a cult classic that is often credited with launching many of the actors' careers.

From Steven Soderbergh, starring Michael Douglas, Benicio Del Toro, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Jacob Vargas
Rated R

Traffic is an Academy Award winning drama film directed by Steven Soderbergh in 2000. The film follows the intertwining stories of several characters whose lives are affected by the international drug trade. The main character is Robert Wakefield (Michael Douglas), a newly appointed US drug czar who must deal with the conflicting pressures of his job, his relationship with his wife, and his teenage daughter's drug addiction. Meanwhile, in Mexico, a corrupt Mexican police officer (Benicio del Toro) is working with a powerful drug cartel leader (Steven Bauer) to smuggle drugs into the United States. In another story, a rich housewife (Catherine Zeta-Jones) discovers her husband (Dennis Quaid) is a drug kingpin. As a result of her husband's involvement in drugs, her family's life is thrown upside down and she must find a way to protect her family and get out of the drug trade. The film explores the complexities of the drug trade and its impact on society. It received widespread acclaim and won four Academy Awards, including Best Director for Soderbergh, Best Supporting Actor for del Toro, and Best Adapted Screenplay.