Please enjoy this panel interview, hosted by Cheryl Washington, following a movie Clean and Sober showing featuring Michael Keaton, which was part of the Ridgefield Playhouse Reel to Real Series—Beyond the Story.
Clean and Sober Synopsis
Synopsis:
In the sober pop culture classic “Clean and Sober,” Michael Keaton delivers a powerhouse performance as Daryl Poynter, a real estate agent whose life spirals out of control due to his addiction to drugs and alcohol. After waking up from a drug-induced blackout to discover a woman dead in his bed, Daryl realizes he must confront his demons and seek help. Fleeing into a drug rehabilitation center, he embarks on a tumultuous journey of self-discovery, sobriety, and redemption. Amidst the challenges of recovery and the temptations of relapse, Daryl must confront his past, face his fears, and strive to build a new life free from the grips of addiction.
Movie Review:
“Clean and Sober” stands as a timeless testament to the struggles and triumphs of recovery, firmly establishing itself as a sober pop culture classic. Michael Keaton’s portrayal of Daryl Poynter is nothing short of mesmerizing, capturing the raw intensity and vulnerability of a man fighting to reclaim his life from the clutches of addiction.
Director Glenn Gordon Caron skillfully navigates the complexities of addiction and recovery, offering viewers a poignant and unflinching glimpse into the harsh realities faced by those grappling with substance abuse. The film doesn’t shy away from the dark depths of addiction but instead illuminates the arduous yet transformative journey toward sobriety with a rare blend of authenticity and compassion.
Through its gripping narrative, “Clean and Sober” immerses audiences in the turbulent world of addiction, shedding light on the internal struggles, external pressures, and ultimate triumphs that accompany the path to sobriety. The film serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration, resonating with viewers on a profound level as it explores the universal themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the enduring power of the human spirit.
For anyone seeking a powerful and thought-provoking cinematic experience that delves into the complexities of addiction and the resilience of the human heart, “Clean and Sober” is a must-watch sober pop culture classic that continues to captivate audiences with its honesty, depth, and unwavering portrayal of the journey towards recovery.
Trigger Warning: As a former smoker, after watching this film, I was craving a cigarette regardless of the fact I gave up smoking nearly a decade ago.
The Sobees Movie Night Score: 4 out of 5
About Ridgefield Playhouse
THE MISSION OF THE RIDGEFIELD PLAYHOUSE, AS A NON-PROFIT PERFORMING ARTS CENTER, IS TO ENTERTAIN, ENRICH, AND EDUCATE OUR COMMUNITY AND SURROUNDING AREAS AND TO INSPIRE PEOPLE OF ALL AGES AND BACKGROUNDS.
After three decades as a high school and town theatre, the beautiful performance and meeting space was abandoned in 1972 when a new, larger high school was built.
In 1994, a group of Ridgefield residents formed Friends of RPAC (Ridgefield Performing Arts Center). After years of persistence by The Friends, the town finally approved the project in 1998. A building committee was created. The committee donated hundreds of hours of their time. As a thank you for their time, plaques were created for all who volunteered at the 10th anniversary of the Playhouse and are still hanging on the wall in the entryway to this day.
The stage was donated by Patricia Schuster, who founded The Ridgefield Civic Ballet (known as The Ridgefield Conservatory of Dance today). Finally, in December of 2000, The Ridgefield Playhouse opened its doors with a performance by Jose Feliciano. The first season it consisted of only about 12 performances, with the theatre open only from September through May. Over the years, that number has consistently grown to where The Ridgefield Playhouse now presents more than 200 live shows and movies, hosting more than 100,000 patrons yearly.
In 2004, Allison Stockel became the executive director, volunteering her time, talent, and energy to catapult The Playhouse into the powerhouse it is today. Today, the Playhouse has music, dance, Broadway performers, comedy, speakers, and more. It shows hundreds of movies, live streams classical performances worldwide, entertains thousands of schoolchildren with its Arts in Education program, and donates tens of thousands of dollars worth of tickets to low-income families with its Arts for Everyone initiative.
We are grateful to the dedicated townspeople who gave this old theatre new life twenty years ago.
SOBER ENTERTAINMENT: The BEST Movies and TV Shows about addiction and recovery (thesobercurator.com)
SOBER ENTERTAINMENT: Let us entertain you! Here, you’ll find a curated selection of podcasts, TV series & movies, events, and music with the underlying theme of addiction. We’re sober, not boring! We’re covering it if it’s trending in pop culture and relates to sobriety. Our taste is eclectic, and our reviews are honest. Check out the sober entertainment you never knew you needed until now.
ENTERTAINMENT SECTIONS:
#QUITLIT Reading is to the mind what exercise is to the body. #QUITLIT is our curated list of addiction and recovery book reviews. All Sober Curators should be well-read, from addiction and recovery memoirs to fiction and self-help.
ADDICTION FICTION Addiction fiction is a burgeoning genre that delves into the gritty reality of substance abuse and its impact on individuals and relationships. It uniquely spotlights personal growth, redemption, and the road to recovery. These narratives offer compelling, relatable messages by exploring addiction and recovery themes.
MOVIE NIGHT WITH THE SOBER CURATOR brings you the movies we love that also carry the underlying story of addiction, recovery, and mental illness.
THE MINDFUL BINGE features a TV series where addiction and recovery are part of the main storyline.
PLAY IT AGAIN is jamming with music selections that represent some part of our journeys and give us all the feels.
SOBER SPORTS is a section of the site dedicated to promoting sobriety and wellness through sports and fitness. The section features articles, interviews, and personal stories from athletes and fitness enthusiasts who are committed to living a healthier, alcohol-free lifestyle.
RECOVERY PODCASTLAND is your one-stop shop for checking out all recovery-based podcasts we’ve been curating.
SOBERSCRIBE NOW!
Resources Are Available
If you or someone you know is experiencing difficulties surrounding alcoholism, addiction, or mental illness, please reach out and ask for help. People everywhere can and want to help; you just have to know where to look. And continue to look until you find what works for you. Click here for a list of regional and national resources.
