I have read a lot of these reviews and I just wanted to add my opinion. Not all addicts are the same. What works for one might not work for another. But as a former user of opioids, I want to say that Subutex (buprenorphine) is a life saver. If only it was more accessible to addicts, so many lives would be saved. One pill can keep you from getting high for 72 hours and it can also take away the unbelievable pain addicts experience when withdrawing from narcotics. It is also much safer than something like methadone. Unfortunately, it can be hard to find a doctor that is licensed to provide this medication and it can be expensive. But I have been on it now for quite some time and it has kept me from relapsing. I'm not saying I don't have cravings. But taking the Subutex every day makes it impossible to get high even if I did slip up. One more thing I wanted to add. Opioid addiction can cause bad teeth just like meth addiction can. When you're too high to take care of your oral hygiene, it doesn't really matter which drug made you that way.
139 Reviews
As a former heroin addict...
brian-parone23 May 2021
I can tell you think brings to light, very accurately, the balance between an addict trying to get clean and needing support, and not having any trust from those that can provide it. It's so accurate, so balanced, and ultimately demonstrates the broad impact that addiction has on everyone in the addict's universe. And....shut up MEG! 😉
there are some unpleasant things going on
lee_eisenberg24 February 2022
The previous reviewer complained that Rodrigo García's "Four Good Days" didn't go far enough in depicting its subject matter.
Of course it didn't. It's a movie, for crying out loud. "Schindler's List" couldn't fully depict the horrors of the Nazis' actions, and "12 Years a Slave" couldn't fully depict the brutality of slavery. The point is to give the viewer an idea of the misery that addicts and their families experience. It certainly gave me an idea of that. I recommend it.
Of course it didn't. It's a movie, for crying out loud. "Schindler's List" couldn't fully depict the horrors of the Nazis' actions, and "12 Years a Slave" couldn't fully depict the brutality of slavery. The point is to give the viewer an idea of the misery that addicts and their families experience. It certainly gave me an idea of that. I recommend it.
Good movie, could give hope
zenithfx24 May 2021
Warning: Spoilers
I am an addict in recovery. Also had 12 detox, many therapie and most importantly, now I'm doing the 12 step program, which eventually still helps me today.. Recovery is not about getting a shot and your out. I've used the same stuff she got injected with,but that didn't work for me. It was her will to get better that helped her.
I hope many parents with addicted children wach this movie to gain hope and trust. Because it is possible. My parents gave up on me but i got out and made them very proud!
I hope many parents with addicted children wach this movie to gain hope and trust. Because it is possible. My parents gave up on me but i got out and made them very proud!
Touching and raw
Gordon-1123 May 2021
Respect.
kfckidkfckid21 May 2021
This is a great attempt and Kunis , Close, and Root are magnificent.
BUT, it still does not go far enough in depicting the true horrors of detoxing. All the sweat, emesis and excreta are missing. All that crap that addicts families go through..This film just isn't ugly enough to frighten and shock everyone as they should be.
BUT, it still does not go far enough in depicting the true horrors of detoxing. All the sweat, emesis and excreta are missing. All that crap that addicts families go through..This film just isn't ugly enough to frighten and shock everyone as they should be.
Mila gets serious
ferguson-629 April 2021
Greetings again from the darkness. Drug addiction provides bountiful harvesting for emotional message movies, though I'll admit to some difficulty in relating to the subject matter. Writer-director Rodrigo Garcia (ALBERT NOBBS, 2011) has worked with co-writer Eli Saslow to adapt Saslow's 2016 Washington Post article, "How's Amanda: A story of truth, lies and American Addiction". It's an all-too-common tale of how addiction ruins lives and tears families apart. If not for two strong lead performances, Garcia's latest movie would be just 'another log on the fire'.
The filmmaker has re-teamed with his ALBERT NOBBS star, Glenn Close, who plays Deb, mother to Molly (Mila Kunis), a 10 year drug addict who shows up at mom's house asking for help "getting clean". Of course, mom has heard this too many times over the years. See, Molly has not only stolen from her mother and lied to her frequently, but she's also been through detox/rehab 14 times over those 10 years. Deb initially refuses to let Molly in the house, but relents the next morning and drives her straight to the detox center. The doctor tells her she qualifies for a new magic shot that will block the drug cravings and effects if she can stay clean for four days (hence the film's title). Any drugs in the system will cause complications, and likely prove fatal.
So Deb babysits Molly, who we learn has two kids by her ex-husband, Sean (Joshua Leonard). Turns out, he's not such a great guy either. I'm certainly no expert, but it appears to me that Ms. Kunis goes all-in as an addict, replete with rotted teeth, damaged skin, and an attitude that warrants a swift kick. Ms. Kunis was excellent in BLACK SWAN (2010), but it seems she spends most of her time in comedies. She proves again that she has some dramatic chops, and hopefully will continue to pursue more serious roles. Ms. Close, who recently set the record for futility by becoming the first actor with 8 Oscar nominations and no wins, dons yet another terrible wig (ala HILLBILLY ELEGY, 2020) and works very hard to create a full-fledged mother from an underwritten character. The film briefly dabbles with the mother-daughter history of abandonment, but never digs deep enough for real meaning.
Stephen Root is given little to do as Deb's second husband, and Sam Hemmings has one good scene as Molly's dad who is confronted by Deb. Clichés abound in the story, yet the underlying message of a parent who refuses to give up on their kid, even when every time the result is disappointment, is grounded in reality. It's certainly no TRAINSPOTTING (1996) as far as depressing drug addiction stories, but the two leads make it watchable.
In theaters April 30, 2021.
The filmmaker has re-teamed with his ALBERT NOBBS star, Glenn Close, who plays Deb, mother to Molly (Mila Kunis), a 10 year drug addict who shows up at mom's house asking for help "getting clean". Of course, mom has heard this too many times over the years. See, Molly has not only stolen from her mother and lied to her frequently, but she's also been through detox/rehab 14 times over those 10 years. Deb initially refuses to let Molly in the house, but relents the next morning and drives her straight to the detox center. The doctor tells her she qualifies for a new magic shot that will block the drug cravings and effects if she can stay clean for four days (hence the film's title). Any drugs in the system will cause complications, and likely prove fatal.
So Deb babysits Molly, who we learn has two kids by her ex-husband, Sean (Joshua Leonard). Turns out, he's not such a great guy either. I'm certainly no expert, but it appears to me that Ms. Kunis goes all-in as an addict, replete with rotted teeth, damaged skin, and an attitude that warrants a swift kick. Ms. Kunis was excellent in BLACK SWAN (2010), but it seems she spends most of her time in comedies. She proves again that she has some dramatic chops, and hopefully will continue to pursue more serious roles. Ms. Close, who recently set the record for futility by becoming the first actor with 8 Oscar nominations and no wins, dons yet another terrible wig (ala HILLBILLY ELEGY, 2020) and works very hard to create a full-fledged mother from an underwritten character. The film briefly dabbles with the mother-daughter history of abandonment, but never digs deep enough for real meaning.
Stephen Root is given little to do as Deb's second husband, and Sam Hemmings has one good scene as Molly's dad who is confronted by Deb. Clichés abound in the story, yet the underlying message of a parent who refuses to give up on their kid, even when every time the result is disappointment, is grounded in reality. It's certainly no TRAINSPOTTING (1996) as far as depressing drug addiction stories, but the two leads make it watchable.
In theaters April 30, 2021.
Average script but Above Average performances
tm-sheehan27 September 2021
My Review - Four Good Days
My Rating 6.5
Superb performances by Glenn Close as Deb a mother in crisis and confusion due to her daughter's addicted to heroine who returns home pleading for shelter and money while only a whisker away from total self destruction.
Deb has experienced this scenario with her daughter before with all the broken promises deception lies and thieving that a desperate addict puts a family though. She loves her daughter Molly but hates the addict she has become so is conflicted as to whether to give her another chance at recovery.
Mila Kunos is equally brilliant as the daughter Molly she must have suffered for this role she looks emaciated her eyes are hollow and vacant as a drug addicts eyes would her make up even the rotting teeth convince you this is the look that causes heartbreak to so many families.
Mila Kunos born in Ukrainian was also brilliant as Lily the evil character in the 2010 movie "Black Swan" .
A simple synopsis of the story is that a mother helps her daughter work through four crucial days of recovery from substance abuse.
The reason my Rating is a bit low not too low just average is that I've seen this storyline before and with much better or convincing scriptwriting.
I'm thinking of two similar films that outshine "Four Good Days ." the 2018 movie "Beautiful Boy ." starring Tim Carell and Timothée Chalamet as Nic Cheff .
Based on the best-selling pair of memoirs from father and son David and Nic Sheff, Beautiful Boy chronicles the heartbreaking and inspiring experience of survival, relapse and recovery in a family coping with addiction over many years.
The other film on the same subject that I want to mention is the 2018 movie "Ben is Back." Starring Lucas Hedges and Julia Roberts it also has a similar plot of a drug addicted teenage who boy shows up unexpectedly at his family's home on Christmas Eve.
My Rating no way reflects a negative view of Glenn Close or Mila Kunos or their performances with a better script they could be award winning roles.
The script lost me when in a Supermarket scene mother Deb and Molly her daughter who is only 2 days off a heroine binge meet an acquaintance who incredibly says Molly looks well and invites her to speak next day to a class of high school students to tell them about her experience,strength and hope.
The scene seemed totally ridiculous to me because A- Molly looks like death warmed up and B what School would allow a heroine addict only 2 days clean anywhere near High School students.
Also the horrific drug dealers house scene where Deb follows her daughter in an attempt to stop her using again is so over the top it was like a horror scene from "Seven" it seemed to me a vain attempt to over sensationalise the seriousness of drug addiction. It is of course one of most serious problems of the modern age but in my view this scene just didn't fit the story I doubt anyone would leave that house alive.
Summing up for me "Four Good Days "an average movie with above average performances.
The story of "Four Good Days ." is based on true characters and I was pleased to read that as of 2021, Amanda Wendler (on whom this film was based) has been clean for 4 years. She and her mother Libby Andler now advocate for addicts and their families their picture appears just at the start of the credits.
Superb performances by Glenn Close as Deb a mother in crisis and confusion due to her daughter's addicted to heroine who returns home pleading for shelter and money while only a whisker away from total self destruction.
Deb has experienced this scenario with her daughter before with all the broken promises deception lies and thieving that a desperate addict puts a family though. She loves her daughter Molly but hates the addict she has become so is conflicted as to whether to give her another chance at recovery.
Mila Kunos is equally brilliant as the daughter Molly she must have suffered for this role she looks emaciated her eyes are hollow and vacant as a drug addicts eyes would her make up even the rotting teeth convince you this is the look that causes heartbreak to so many families.
Mila Kunos born in Ukrainian was also brilliant as Lily the evil character in the 2010 movie "Black Swan" .
A simple synopsis of the story is that a mother helps her daughter work through four crucial days of recovery from substance abuse.
The reason my Rating is a bit low not too low just average is that I've seen this storyline before and with much better or convincing scriptwriting.
I'm thinking of two similar films that outshine "Four Good Days ." the 2018 movie "Beautiful Boy ." starring Tim Carell and Timothée Chalamet as Nic Cheff .
Based on the best-selling pair of memoirs from father and son David and Nic Sheff, Beautiful Boy chronicles the heartbreaking and inspiring experience of survival, relapse and recovery in a family coping with addiction over many years.
The other film on the same subject that I want to mention is the 2018 movie "Ben is Back." Starring Lucas Hedges and Julia Roberts it also has a similar plot of a drug addicted teenage who boy shows up unexpectedly at his family's home on Christmas Eve.
My Rating no way reflects a negative view of Glenn Close or Mila Kunos or their performances with a better script they could be award winning roles.
The script lost me when in a Supermarket scene mother Deb and Molly her daughter who is only 2 days off a heroine binge meet an acquaintance who incredibly says Molly looks well and invites her to speak next day to a class of high school students to tell them about her experience,strength and hope.
The scene seemed totally ridiculous to me because A- Molly looks like death warmed up and B what School would allow a heroine addict only 2 days clean anywhere near High School students.
Also the horrific drug dealers house scene where Deb follows her daughter in an attempt to stop her using again is so over the top it was like a horror scene from "Seven" it seemed to me a vain attempt to over sensationalise the seriousness of drug addiction. It is of course one of most serious problems of the modern age but in my view this scene just didn't fit the story I doubt anyone would leave that house alive.
Summing up for me "Four Good Days "an average movie with above average performances.
The story of "Four Good Days ." is based on true characters and I was pleased to read that as of 2021, Amanda Wendler (on whom this film was based) has been clean for 4 years. She and her mother Libby Andler now advocate for addicts and their families their picture appears just at the start of the credits.
Misrepresentation ?
rotini-5258621 May 2021
I was hooked on heroin for 10 years also....and I went through everything that was depicted in this movie. So stick your misrepresentation up your ass.... Oxy users... Brilliant performances by all. Don't let these Opiate users reviews wreck watching a masterpiece.
Motherly love for a drugaddicted daughter. Lighthearted drama with solid acting performances.
imseeg21 May 2021
Lighthearted, but gripping tale of a drug addict (Mila Kunis) trying to come clean with the help of her mother (Glenn Close).
The bad: this drug addict story is portrayed in a bit too lighthearted style for my personal taste, because we dont get to see much real pain and repulsive recklessness, which comes along with drug addicted behaviour. But on the other hand, many viewers could like this movie, BECAUSE of that lighthearted touch in direction style.
The good: this is a really decent drama about drug addiction. Good acting performances by Glenn Close and Mila Kunis. It is beyond me why this movie has gotten so little attention. Corona?
I would definitely recommend this movie. Dont expect brilliance though, but you can expect really good acting and a really decent story with true to life characters... and with some genuine touching moments of motherly love for her dependent drug addicted daughter.
The bad: this drug addict story is portrayed in a bit too lighthearted style for my personal taste, because we dont get to see much real pain and repulsive recklessness, which comes along with drug addicted behaviour. But on the other hand, many viewers could like this movie, BECAUSE of that lighthearted touch in direction style.
The good: this is a really decent drama about drug addiction. Good acting performances by Glenn Close and Mila Kunis. It is beyond me why this movie has gotten so little attention. Corona?
I would definitely recommend this movie. Dont expect brilliance though, but you can expect really good acting and a really decent story with true to life characters... and with some genuine touching moments of motherly love for her dependent drug addicted daughter.
A very lightly based on true story of every addict
amyfleck16 July 2021
As it is with most movies about opiate addiction, this one has a very unrealistic overview of what the detox process actually looks like. They make it look like a cakewalk with her in a dentist chair and jumping around with her kids 5 days into recovery. Very unlikely. I am a recovering addict of 8 years and that hardly measures up to my narrative! She claimed to be using heroin and methadone, let me just tell you when I detoxed off of methadone, I literally laid on my couch for 2 solid weeks unable to sleep, eat, move, even watch tv. I laid in a ball and wept. You dont even BEGIN to feel better until after AT LEAST 2 weeks. Heroin is a very similar detox, just slightly shorter. From either one it takes several months to start feeling somewhat normal and several years to feel completely normal, if ever. I dont think any film could ever fully convey the actuality of what it's like, but many have done it much better (The Basketball Diaries comes to mind). Anyone saying the detox was spot on was probably only using synthetic opiates such as oxycodone. BIG difference! Oh and to the reviewer who gave this 1 star, noting that this film is filled with harmful misinformation about 'forcing the patient to go through an unnecessarily painful withdrawal', suggesting the doctor should have offered her methadone, and that her makeup was way off, your review is filled with harmful misinformation. Methadone is the WORST thing to do for addiction. It is just swapping one drug for an even worse drug. One that, might I add, costs more than most people's car payment and isnt covered by even the best insurance. And if you ever decide to ACTUALLY get clean somewhere down the road, it's a far more painful detox than heroin, as it takes twice as long. Getting clean IS PAINFUL! And her makeup was actually pretty spot on for someone on heroin and living on the streets for 10 years. Addiction is UGLY!
I found the premise of the film, revolving around 'the shot', somewhat aggravating. It sends a bad message IMO. Giving outsiders some inclination that it is some miracle that keeps people sober. That it completely takes away the cravings. As long as she can get through these 4 'good' days (still confused about the title, as nothing is good about early recovery) shes made it and will never be tempted to use again and live happily ever after. I swear half the dialogue in this film is her or her mom saying "just ... more days" . Well, it doesnt work like that. If it did, drug addiction would go down, not grow at an exponential rate as it is. Because every addict would do anything for a miracle. Unfortunately, nothing gets rid of cravings except time. And a whole lot of it. Believing in this bs 'antidote' is a surefire way of relapsing. Only willpower and a strong support system keeps you sober. Another thing I found to be off was her naivety about addiction, the shot, her options for getting and staying sober, such as going into an inpatient treatment or at least outpatient. For someone who's been to detox 14 times she should have been much more aware of such things. It seemed like her actual recovery played a very small role for a film revolved around recovery. There was way too much narrative around the shot.
In other aspects of the movie, apart from the story itself, the acting was quite good. Mom was a little over-the-top at times. But I suppose some people might act like that. Hard to believe in Mila Kunis in a role like this but she did it well. It took me 20 minutes to even realize it was her. As stated earlier I think her makeup did the role justice. I have seen plenty of opiate addicts have 'meth' teeth (hell I've seen weed addicts with rotted teeth), as it's not the meth that rots your teeth it's the malnutrition, dry mouth, and lack of oral care. Which go hand in hand with every drug. It's just most notable with meth because you tend to not eat or sleep, so the malnutrition and dry mouth are more prevalant than with other drugs. 5 out 10 for the acting. The story was too rushed and sent a disillusioned message.
I found the premise of the film, revolving around 'the shot', somewhat aggravating. It sends a bad message IMO. Giving outsiders some inclination that it is some miracle that keeps people sober. That it completely takes away the cravings. As long as she can get through these 4 'good' days (still confused about the title, as nothing is good about early recovery) shes made it and will never be tempted to use again and live happily ever after. I swear half the dialogue in this film is her or her mom saying "just ... more days" . Well, it doesnt work like that. If it did, drug addiction would go down, not grow at an exponential rate as it is. Because every addict would do anything for a miracle. Unfortunately, nothing gets rid of cravings except time. And a whole lot of it. Believing in this bs 'antidote' is a surefire way of relapsing. Only willpower and a strong support system keeps you sober. Another thing I found to be off was her naivety about addiction, the shot, her options for getting and staying sober, such as going into an inpatient treatment or at least outpatient. For someone who's been to detox 14 times she should have been much more aware of such things. It seemed like her actual recovery played a very small role for a film revolved around recovery. There was way too much narrative around the shot.
In other aspects of the movie, apart from the story itself, the acting was quite good. Mom was a little over-the-top at times. But I suppose some people might act like that. Hard to believe in Mila Kunis in a role like this but she did it well. It took me 20 minutes to even realize it was her. As stated earlier I think her makeup did the role justice. I have seen plenty of opiate addicts have 'meth' teeth (hell I've seen weed addicts with rotted teeth), as it's not the meth that rots your teeth it's the malnutrition, dry mouth, and lack of oral care. Which go hand in hand with every drug. It's just most notable with meth because you tend to not eat or sleep, so the malnutrition and dry mouth are more prevalant than with other drugs. 5 out 10 for the acting. The story was too rushed and sent a disillusioned message.
Misrepresentation???
wvj322 May 2021
Coming from someone who has worked in the addiction field in just about every capacity as well as dealt with it in my personal life I feel this is a very accurate depiction of addiction. From the conflicted mother trying not to enable her kid but not being able to trust a word that comes out of her mouth. To the addict who wants to get clean but continues to struggle despite the disgust she has for her addiction. It's so accurate it makes me cringe. Phenomenal acting. The mother trying to control every aspect of the addicts life and just falling short is just way too accurate.
Not the normal Mila Kunis we've come to see
reddiemurf8126 September 2021
How could a loving mother turn her daughter away from her doorstep? Well,, ask the parent of a drug addict.
Molly has gone through detox 14 times before. What is going to make the 15th time different? When the doctor tells her that she can get a shot that will not allow her to get high, even if she takes heroin,, that is the difference this time. Only problem is that Molly has to be clean for a full week before taking the shot. Can Molly make it that long?
Wow,, stunning performances by Close and Kunis. Where we've seen many of those from Close,,, Kunis brings a quite believeable performance as a heroin addict. Not that I'm completely shocked by that,, but she's not exactly playing Meg Griffin in this movie, lol.
Molly has gone through detox 14 times before. What is going to make the 15th time different? When the doctor tells her that she can get a shot that will not allow her to get high, even if she takes heroin,, that is the difference this time. Only problem is that Molly has to be clean for a full week before taking the shot. Can Molly make it that long?
Wow,, stunning performances by Close and Kunis. Where we've seen many of those from Close,,, Kunis brings a quite believeable performance as a heroin addict. Not that I'm completely shocked by that,, but she's not exactly playing Meg Griffin in this movie, lol.
Ending sucks
amandaharkimo-7092617 August 2021
Warning: Spoilers
The movie was really great in thought of acting and really felt truthful. But the ending was ridiculous, someone who have been an addict doesn't get well in four months. Would have rated the movie much higher if the last sentence would have been four years.
For such a small story still feels a little plotholey
amsterdam23072525 May 2021
Warning: Spoilers
I'm not entirely sure what to make of this one. It did captivate me until the end, it's a decent movie. Acting was decent - Mila Kunis was actually better than I had expected, although a bit more subtlety would maybe have been better on her character, especially in terms of her look which seemed a bit theatrical. The movie is definitely more lighthearted than the trailer makes it out to be, by the way, which was a good thing in my eyes as I expected pure (melo)drama all the way. As another review stated though, the trailer is basically a summary of the movie otherwise (though less so in tone). Trailers tend to do that though and it's very annoying.
The movie is relatively short and much more psychological than very plot-driven. Still in my opinion there were some inconsistencies in the psychology, which almost read as plotholes. It's mostly about the inconsistency in the mother's actions. Although I do understand they were trying to convey the reality that there is not much consistency in how anyone would deal with a loved one (let alone your child) self-destructing like this, and it's mostly ups and downs, mindtricks and manipulation - this movie takes place in a very short period of time, and in that timeframe I found the mother's actions to be kind of confusing in combination with each other.
The scene were Molly fakes a phone call from the clinic about her appointment being rescheduled, and the subsequent weekend she spends at her ex's place was weird to me. Her mother had been watching her like a hawk for days, even pacing closely behind Molly while she was faking her phone call. Then her mother immediately voiced very logical suspicions (which later turned out to be the truth) about the realness of the phone call, but still let Molly storm off to her ex's place who had recently asked her to score drugs for her (like, one day prior). Ok, so I guess she couldn't necessarily have stopped Molly from leaving, but WHY didn't she call the clinic the next day to try and confirm this rescheduling? If it HAD been true, would that not have put her mind at ease a bit at least? And why does she frantically try to get a hold of both Molly and Molly's ex, but only by texting and calling, and not by driving over? But then she does drive over to Molly's dad's house for some reason? It's not even just Molly who was involved here - it was also her grandchildren. Just didn't really make sense to me.
Another thing: why is the mother so overly optimistic, as if they're going to live happily ever after, after Molly finally got her shot even though they both knew she had lied about having been sober long enough. The doctor literally told them that the reason she had to be sober for a week was because otherwise the shot could have life-threatening consequences. So why didn't they discuss that risk more, and why did they happily walk to the car and was it then shown as some sort of plottwist when Molly went into acute withdrawal? Didn't they literally know that that was a strong possibility all along? Confused me too.
The pregnancy/adoption story thrown in there was a bit random, not sure what that was meant to achieve or add to the story to be honest.
Lastly, a bit more backstory on Molly's ex/the father of her children would have been good. Now I guess we learn he's low-key a drugabuser as well (which kind of makes sense given that Molly would've been in a relationship with him as an active addict, like we are told she has been since she was a teenager), who asks her to get him drugs as soon as she gets out of rehab, and even goes out with her the day after she was meant to get her shot to get high together? Sounds like he was in pretty deep as well then. Why does he then have custody over the children by himself and is this not really addressed, at least after she gets clean?
Things like that were frustrating throughout the movie, although constant frustration and false hope is probably what they were trying to portray - it could have been shown in other ways than these ways which just seemed too nonsensical.
A bit more background on Molly herself would be good too, like maybe a couple of flashbacks or dialogue about the early stages of her addiction. Now it is just referred to a couple of times in a rushed way. However, I can appreciate that Molly does not necessarily have a crazy traumatic backstory to explain away her addiction issues. The idea that people can just be wired differently is refreshing in an era of, say, 13 Reasons Why type hypes where every act of self-destruction or violence is explained super neatly - although the opposite idea is pushed a bit too hard in this movie too. In reality the truth probably lingers somewhere in between nature and nurture. That whole dialogue scene in which it was (over)stated that basically no one could have done anything to prevent this, was a bit too on the nose and imposing. They could have either fleshed that out with more of a backstory or just left it in the middle more.
Very watchable film, touching at times, with good pacing and a good overall tone: bearable to watch because it's not an extremely heavy dramafest. Still though, for such a "small" plot, it left too many questions, and presumably not the questions they wanted to leave the audience with.
The movie is relatively short and much more psychological than very plot-driven. Still in my opinion there were some inconsistencies in the psychology, which almost read as plotholes. It's mostly about the inconsistency in the mother's actions. Although I do understand they were trying to convey the reality that there is not much consistency in how anyone would deal with a loved one (let alone your child) self-destructing like this, and it's mostly ups and downs, mindtricks and manipulation - this movie takes place in a very short period of time, and in that timeframe I found the mother's actions to be kind of confusing in combination with each other.
The scene were Molly fakes a phone call from the clinic about her appointment being rescheduled, and the subsequent weekend she spends at her ex's place was weird to me. Her mother had been watching her like a hawk for days, even pacing closely behind Molly while she was faking her phone call. Then her mother immediately voiced very logical suspicions (which later turned out to be the truth) about the realness of the phone call, but still let Molly storm off to her ex's place who had recently asked her to score drugs for her (like, one day prior). Ok, so I guess she couldn't necessarily have stopped Molly from leaving, but WHY didn't she call the clinic the next day to try and confirm this rescheduling? If it HAD been true, would that not have put her mind at ease a bit at least? And why does she frantically try to get a hold of both Molly and Molly's ex, but only by texting and calling, and not by driving over? But then she does drive over to Molly's dad's house for some reason? It's not even just Molly who was involved here - it was also her grandchildren. Just didn't really make sense to me.
Another thing: why is the mother so overly optimistic, as if they're going to live happily ever after, after Molly finally got her shot even though they both knew she had lied about having been sober long enough. The doctor literally told them that the reason she had to be sober for a week was because otherwise the shot could have life-threatening consequences. So why didn't they discuss that risk more, and why did they happily walk to the car and was it then shown as some sort of plottwist when Molly went into acute withdrawal? Didn't they literally know that that was a strong possibility all along? Confused me too.
The pregnancy/adoption story thrown in there was a bit random, not sure what that was meant to achieve or add to the story to be honest.
Lastly, a bit more backstory on Molly's ex/the father of her children would have been good. Now I guess we learn he's low-key a drugabuser as well (which kind of makes sense given that Molly would've been in a relationship with him as an active addict, like we are told she has been since she was a teenager), who asks her to get him drugs as soon as she gets out of rehab, and even goes out with her the day after she was meant to get her shot to get high together? Sounds like he was in pretty deep as well then. Why does he then have custody over the children by himself and is this not really addressed, at least after she gets clean?
Things like that were frustrating throughout the movie, although constant frustration and false hope is probably what they were trying to portray - it could have been shown in other ways than these ways which just seemed too nonsensical.
A bit more background on Molly herself would be good too, like maybe a couple of flashbacks or dialogue about the early stages of her addiction. Now it is just referred to a couple of times in a rushed way. However, I can appreciate that Molly does not necessarily have a crazy traumatic backstory to explain away her addiction issues. The idea that people can just be wired differently is refreshing in an era of, say, 13 Reasons Why type hypes where every act of self-destruction or violence is explained super neatly - although the opposite idea is pushed a bit too hard in this movie too. In reality the truth probably lingers somewhere in between nature and nurture. That whole dialogue scene in which it was (over)stated that basically no one could have done anything to prevent this, was a bit too on the nose and imposing. They could have either fleshed that out with more of a backstory or just left it in the middle more.
Very watchable film, touching at times, with good pacing and a good overall tone: bearable to watch because it's not an extremely heavy dramafest. Still though, for such a "small" plot, it left too many questions, and presumably not the questions they wanted to leave the audience with.
Maudlin representation of an important story
I_Ailurophile29 August 2021
'Four good days' is nothing if not a vehicle for Mila Kunis and Glenn Close. Whatever the size or tone of the parts, both are incredible actors and have demonstrated their skills time and again. This is easily the least glamorous role Kunis has ever taken on, and Close has likewise had few roles that seemed so down to earth. Both wield strong nuance and depth in their performances, realizing Molly and Deb with every ounce of emotion and range they possess. It's a joy to watch them here, and gratifyingly, they dominate the screen at almost all times. To that point, commendations as well to the makeup, hair, and wardrobe departments for their fine work in actualizing these characters.
I wish I could give further additional praise, but I find myself a bit at odds. I'm very much a fan of both stars. Yet there's a point to be made that the movie is maybe too melodramatic and awash in sentimentality for its own good. To no small extent, 'Four good days' feels like Oscar bait, a feature designed from the bottom up to tug at the heartstrings and score accolades for its stars, or some element of its craftsmanship. Plenty of other movies have told similar stories, just as if not more harrowing, but with a more plainspoken, understated thrust that makes them more genuine, heartfelt, and impactful, and helps them stand out all the more. The pointedly dramatic flair laid heavily upon this screenplay makes it feel all too familiar to countless other movies, to its detriment.
This is all the more unfortunate because the screenplay is based on actual events, and it's a tale that plays out time and again around the world. Passing shots of a surrounding nondescript cityscape accentuate that universality, and how despite all the grandeur of civilization we still allow it to transpire without advancing the tools or methods we use in the face of it. There are critical themes and ideas buried somewhere within this feature, but they are subsumed by the camera's true focus. There was no need to dress up the production around a narrative that speaks volumes by itself. For as unquestionably powerful as Kunis and Close are, the movie becomes not the story of Deb and her daughter, not the story of the opioid epidemic, but the story of two world-class actors dramatizing that reality for us. There's a distinct difference, and I've never felt it so clearly in a film as I do here.
This isn't bad - it is, in fact, enjoyable, if purposefully uncomfortable. It's a pleasure to watch its leads exercise their craft, and that's good, because the movie didn't pour substantial energy or resources into much of anything else. Honestly, I wanted to like 'Four good days' more than I do; would that this film were less about Mila Kunis and Glenn Close, and more about the characters and their struggles.
I wish I could give further additional praise, but I find myself a bit at odds. I'm very much a fan of both stars. Yet there's a point to be made that the movie is maybe too melodramatic and awash in sentimentality for its own good. To no small extent, 'Four good days' feels like Oscar bait, a feature designed from the bottom up to tug at the heartstrings and score accolades for its stars, or some element of its craftsmanship. Plenty of other movies have told similar stories, just as if not more harrowing, but with a more plainspoken, understated thrust that makes them more genuine, heartfelt, and impactful, and helps them stand out all the more. The pointedly dramatic flair laid heavily upon this screenplay makes it feel all too familiar to countless other movies, to its detriment.
This is all the more unfortunate because the screenplay is based on actual events, and it's a tale that plays out time and again around the world. Passing shots of a surrounding nondescript cityscape accentuate that universality, and how despite all the grandeur of civilization we still allow it to transpire without advancing the tools or methods we use in the face of it. There are critical themes and ideas buried somewhere within this feature, but they are subsumed by the camera's true focus. There was no need to dress up the production around a narrative that speaks volumes by itself. For as unquestionably powerful as Kunis and Close are, the movie becomes not the story of Deb and her daughter, not the story of the opioid epidemic, but the story of two world-class actors dramatizing that reality for us. There's a distinct difference, and I've never felt it so clearly in a film as I do here.
This isn't bad - it is, in fact, enjoyable, if purposefully uncomfortable. It's a pleasure to watch its leads exercise their craft, and that's good, because the movie didn't pour substantial energy or resources into much of anything else. Honestly, I wanted to like 'Four good days' more than I do; would that this film were less about Mila Kunis and Glenn Close, and more about the characters and their struggles.
It's a movie not a documentary
welhof112 April 2022
I work in EMS and don't see this side of heroin addiction very often. It's pretty touching and hopefully is able to impact someone out there. Definitely a new role for Mila Kunis. It was hard to see her in a different role but I think she did good. Worth the watch if you need a break from the everyday super hero movies!
There's Not Enough Material to Emotionally Resonate
kjproulx7 June 2021
Sometimes a film comes along that suffers from not enough story to come by, being based on a true story, or simply trying too hard to expand a simple premise. Four Good Days is one of the latest true stories to be released and while everything about it felt like it was made by a team who cared, I didn't think it completely worked as a narrative feature. When you have devoted performances, you can easily extend the length of your film, especially if they're carrying it well on their shoulders. With that said, here's why I believe Four Good Days doesn't really warrant a recommendation, even though you'll appreciate the film if you were to still give it a go.
After many years of drug addictions, Molly (Mila Kunis) returns home to seek help from her mother, Deb (Glenn Close), who at this point, wants nothing more to do with her. This set-up works perfectly for a film that will inevitably have a few emotional gut punches along the way. As I said, Kunis and Close really do carry this film from start to finish and I've never seen Kunis go as far, dramatically, as she did here, so props to her for that as well. There's nothing stellar here in terms of storytelling or performances, but I walked away from this movie feeling that I watched something that way put together by people who cared about the subject matter.
The road to recovery has been a story that many, many films have explored over the years, but too many of them feel like they're following the same formula as the last. Yes, this film cares deeply about the core characters and I'm sure this true story played out similarly, but too many films have this tone and feel when dealing with things of this nature. By a certain point, I began to see where it was heading and it ended up there without any big surprises. A great story does not always make a great movie and I think Four Good Days is a perfect example for that argument. It has all the makings for a wonderful drama, but it really felt like the filmmakers were stretching this material pretty far.
I can't get into too much detail with this review, particularly because the film begins in a bad place and leaves you hoping that the film will end in a much better place, which isn't enough. You either buy the characters and performances that will eventually make you emotional, or the movie won't work for you, it's really that simple for this one. There's nothing groundbreaking in terms of screenplay, cinematography, or even directing, so it truly did come down to whether or not these performers could take you on this journey. This was a more simplistic review from my end, but I just didn't feel that a breakdown was warranted here. It works emotionally, but it never goes further. It's far from a bad movie, but so much potential is wasted as well.
After many years of drug addictions, Molly (Mila Kunis) returns home to seek help from her mother, Deb (Glenn Close), who at this point, wants nothing more to do with her. This set-up works perfectly for a film that will inevitably have a few emotional gut punches along the way. As I said, Kunis and Close really do carry this film from start to finish and I've never seen Kunis go as far, dramatically, as she did here, so props to her for that as well. There's nothing stellar here in terms of storytelling or performances, but I walked away from this movie feeling that I watched something that way put together by people who cared about the subject matter.
The road to recovery has been a story that many, many films have explored over the years, but too many of them feel like they're following the same formula as the last. Yes, this film cares deeply about the core characters and I'm sure this true story played out similarly, but too many films have this tone and feel when dealing with things of this nature. By a certain point, I began to see where it was heading and it ended up there without any big surprises. A great story does not always make a great movie and I think Four Good Days is a perfect example for that argument. It has all the makings for a wonderful drama, but it really felt like the filmmakers were stretching this material pretty far.
I can't get into too much detail with this review, particularly because the film begins in a bad place and leaves you hoping that the film will end in a much better place, which isn't enough. You either buy the characters and performances that will eventually make you emotional, or the movie won't work for you, it's really that simple for this one. There's nothing groundbreaking in terms of screenplay, cinematography, or even directing, so it truly did come down to whether or not these performers could take you on this journey. This was a more simplistic review from my end, but I just didn't feel that a breakdown was warranted here. It works emotionally, but it never goes further. It's far from a bad movie, but so much potential is wasted as well.
Movie didn't disappoint
enboyce-457773 May 2021
I am a crisis/detox behavioral health technician and I believe this movie hit the nail on the head. I work with all kinds of drug addicts, patients and co-workers that were addicts. Most of which are really close friends.
I think the movie perfectly portrays a person that wants to get clean and is trying really hard to do so. I also think it perfectly portrayed a mother who really wanted to help despite being burned multiple times and somewhat cautious of trusting or being 100% supportive. And the whole movie is not in the trailer. You need to watch the movie to put the puzzle together.
I believe that most of the reviews that are seen on here are from people that have never used heroin (which is led to by using opioids), or have never used meth (which she also said she used), have either never worked with or 100% supported someone detoxing off of drugs, or are stereotyping because they think they know what they're talking about despite not knowing anything about the symptoms of all drugs.
And yes real life detoxing looks exactly the way it looks in the movie. Detoxing can go on for multiple days depending on how much you're taking, how often, and for how long you have been using. Yes there are medications like methadone to help but a lot of patients go to clinics but come to detox because they are high on another substance.
I think the movie perfectly portrays a person that wants to get clean and is trying really hard to do so. I also think it perfectly portrayed a mother who really wanted to help despite being burned multiple times and somewhat cautious of trusting or being 100% supportive. And the whole movie is not in the trailer. You need to watch the movie to put the puzzle together.
I believe that most of the reviews that are seen on here are from people that have never used heroin (which is led to by using opioids), or have never used meth (which she also said she used), have either never worked with or 100% supported someone detoxing off of drugs, or are stereotyping because they think they know what they're talking about despite not knowing anything about the symptoms of all drugs.
And yes real life detoxing looks exactly the way it looks in the movie. Detoxing can go on for multiple days depending on how much you're taking, how often, and for how long you have been using. Yes there are medications like methadone to help but a lot of patients go to clinics but come to detox because they are high on another substance.
Agony of Addiction
jeroduptown15 August 2021
This movie flew under the radar. Glenn Close is the mom to Mila Kunis - a mom herself who has spent 14 stints in rehab and now is back at Glenn's door. In hopes of being able to take a shot that will make her body unable to get high again, they're trying to make it through 4 days until her body is clean enough. A good treatment of the agony of addiction.
Didn't like
pgadziala27 May 2021
Warning: Spoilers
As a heroin user I don't think this shed enough insight on addiction. & detox centers DO NOT treat people like that. At the end it seems she got her entire life back after four months and it does NOT work like that... You have to want your recovery more than anything! Still clean today & counting.
Heartbreaking, Glen Close is a masterpiece in this film
GusherPop17 February 2022
Tragic circumstances lead to recalibration of words we can take for granted. Normally, we might think of a "good" day as one filled with friends, family, food, and fun. But families battered by the broken promises and crushing disappointments of substance abuse may find that for them a "good" day determined not by what it contains but by what it does not. In "Four Good Days," based on a true story, a young addict must not use drugs for four days to receive a promising treatment. "Good," for her and perhaps even more for her mother, means abstaining from drugs. The word "love" may not get re-calibrated for addiction, but it gets modified. We speak of "tough love." And so, when Molly (Mila Kunis), a strung-out addict who has been through rehab and relapsed more than a dozen times, shows up at her mother's house, instead of a warm welcome, she is turned away. Molly's mother Deb (Glenn Close) leans out of the door, her stillness in contrast to Molly's hopped-up shifts of tone. She has been lied to so much and stolen from so often she believes that it is best for Molly if those around her can impose firm boundaries. But Deb wants so badly to believe her. "Whenever I've decided to engage with her it's always been with my eyes open," she says. But hope always pushes to try again, even when experience has shown us it will only break our heart. To the searing pain of the addiction/self-loathing hamster wheel, where "life is a trigger" and it seems the only way to bear the pain and loss and shame of addiction is to keep getting high. Drugs ruin lifes, and relationships, the only thing to do is surround yourself with people that support you, and love you. Family is the only thing that means a goddamn, you'll learn that. You've always got a reason! But it's always someone's else's fault!? At some point in your life, you are going to have to take responsibility.
Mediocre Depiction of Addiction
shannonsuxx22 May 2021
I don't think Mila Kunis suits the role or portrayed an accurate version of a heroin addict, though I do commend her for taking a chance in her career to do so.
The depths of addiction reach much darker than anything in this film did portray. An accurate depiction of drug use would be found in films like Traffic.
I don't think this film was particularly believable nor powerful in any sort of message.
The depths of addiction reach much darker than anything in this film did portray. An accurate depiction of drug use would be found in films like Traffic.
I don't think this film was particularly believable nor powerful in any sort of message.
Harmful misinformation about opioid use and treatment
merinsmadden29 March 2021
This film portrays a character who does not receive effective treatment for her opioid use but that is not clear to the casual viewer at all. Instead of portraying a Doctor who appropriately recommends multiple medications to treat this individual's addiction (i.e., offering methadone and buprenorphine as options too), we see a provider offer only one medication and force the patient to go through a painful and unnecessary withdrawal that could have been avoided with other medicines. The general public will take away the untrue message that opioid addiction treatment is physically painful and ineffective. The make up and teeth worn by Kunis also perpetuate harmful stigma toward people who use drugs. People who are addicted to opioids can and do look all kinds of ways, including like Kunis when she's not in this ridiculous make up. In the future Hollywood should actually include experts in addiction medicine and people who use drugs as expert consultants to avoid such an embarrassing film.
No scenes of a Meeting?!
samlevy-797217 September 2021
Great cast, great acting. Very real for a former addict who is 7 years clean and sober. But the only disappointment in this movie was they did not show one second of a AA meeting or NA meeting, no mention of the 12 steps! That's a massive thing they should of shown.
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