Drugstore Cowboy
Sooner or later, someone will pay the price.
Overview
Portland, Oregon, 1971. Bob Hughes is the charismatic leader of a peculiar quartet, formed by his wife, Dianne, and another couple, Rick and Nadine, who skillfully steal from drugstores and hospital medicine cabinets in order to appease their insatiable need for drugs. But neither fun nor luck last forever.
Backdrop
What makes this movie Worth Watching
Drugstore Cowboy was released at a time when the AIDS epidemic and the War on Drugs were heavily impacting American society. The film offers a raw and intimate look into the world of drug addiction, contrasting with the often sensationalized or moralizing portrayals seen in mainstream media at the time. It reflects a growing awareness of the complexities of addiction and the need for more compassionate approaches.
- Matt Dillon's captivating performance as Bob Hughes, a charismatic drug addict trying to survive.
- The film's realistic and unflinching portrayal of drug addiction and the lives of addicts, avoiding glamorization.
- Gus Van Sant's distinctive directorial style, characterized by atmospheric visuals and a focus on character development.
- The exploration of themes like superstition, guilt, and the longing for normalcy amidst chaotic circumstances.
Fun Facts
- William S. Burroughs, author of 'Naked Lunch,' makes a cameo appearance as an old junkie, adding authenticity and gravitas to the film.
- The superstition regarding hats on beds, prominently featured in the movie, is a real superstition held by some people, particularly those in transient lifestyles.
- Director Gus Van Sant originally wanted to cast River Phoenix in the lead role.