A Thousand Junkies

Amazing story about the futility of the drug war. While not as graphic as it could be this film clearly demonstrates how the criminalization of a medical issue impacts us all. While it does have some funny bits the message is clear...end this drug war now.

Three guys start the day in their crappy car, hoping to find a fix of heroin before the sickness sets in.

A picaresque tale! I guess the title refers to all the junkies who have followed, and are to follow, the same path. This is a nice find, and gives the impression of well studied performances from actors who have seen this behavior in people they know. The only criticism is that the picaresque encounters ain't much violent or humorous - I'm not looking for exaggeration, just the natural absurdity of desperate humans colliding at random, without moralizing. Although there is one judgmental scene, with the charming dancing daughter refusing her dad's plea for help.

The editing, cinematography and sound are all good, and the pace keeps up nicely. And the LA locations are as romantically ugly as ever, with all that sun-bleached concrete. Outstanding element is the music, which creates some romance out of the hopelessness.

I wish someone would bless America.

I know some people have said this movie is unrealistic, but it was more or less pretty similar to my experience. It's been over a decade since I lived that life, but it brought back some painful memories and reminded me how lucky I am. I thought the movie did a great job of portraying what most days are like for a addict. I have been all of these characters wrap into one. Most days are the same as the day before. So, if you want to see the sequel, just rewatch this movie. Side note: Seems as though no matter where you live the dope man takes forever. Every addict has the same experience. "I'm 5 min away.... No go here instead, I'm 15 min away... I'm coming over the bridge I'm 10 min away" Just goes to show, they sell drugs for a reason. Because they're horrible businessmen.

I get it that some other reviewers call this unrealistic, I really do. They probably saw their share of desperate junkies, I did as well, so comparing their life to this movie just doesn't work. The reality of heroin addiction is much worse and harsher than shown in this movie. But nevertheless A Thousand Junkies is well made, it's interesting to watch, it has some decent acting, and even though they don't look like hardcore-beyond-saving heroin addicts there are very recognizable stereotypes portrayed in this movie. The constant lying, the fake promises, never having a dime in their pockets, always looking to con, steal or do whatever it needs to be done to get their next fix, it's like watching the daily routine of any street junkie. I've lived in a big city, saw dozens of those zombies, knew some personally that drifted away from being normal to become a waste of space, so for that the story is accurate, but the reality is just so much worse. A Thousand Junkies is just a soft impression of addiction but it's enjoyable to watch.

I won't do a summary since there is already one.

Keep in mind if you live in SoCal you understand this is not really a true take on junkies (most of us here have one or more in the family) - it is a joke about junkies. And yes my opinion you should be able to joke about things without Everyone jumping on the PC police wagon.

This is something not to take serious, but crack a beer eat bbq, relax have a laugh - heck they even tossed in a Russian talking about the Armenians. The three characters pretty much covered most of the personality type - there is always one junkie worried about unpaid warrants and driving.

Cinematography/scene setting was done nicely, clothing/costumes realistic. It's all just a fun average weekend movie.