12 Motivating Films Focused on Sobriety

      If you're considering sobriety or coping with a loved one's addiction, these uplifting films about recovery might remind you that you're not alone.

      The holiday season can be particularly challenging when facing addiction.

      However, it can also be an excellent opportunity to work toward a healthier version of yourself.

      But First

      Jack Lemmon and Lee Remick in Days of Wine and Roses, from Warner Bros. – Credit: C/O

      No one is preaching or forcing you to read this. It's your choice. The writer of this list (hello!) is someone who has been sober for 12 years and has found films to be incredibly beneficial in the journey to quit drinking and other detrimental habits.

      At times, we all want to escape our own thoughts, and rather than turning to alcohol, I have discovered that movies provide a way to alleviate stress for a few hours without the complications of hangovers, a depleted wallet, or those bewildering mornings after. Especially in the early days of sobriety, I greatly valued films that depict individuals overcoming harmful behaviors.

      Here are some inspiring films about achieving sobriety that I enjoy and think you might too.

      The Resurrection of Jake the Snake (2015)

      Slamdance Presents – Credit: C/O

      Since nobody seeking sobriety desires a phony lecture from Hollywood, let’s begin with a true story: The Resurrection of Jake the Snake follows Jake Roberts, one of the top WWF wrestlers of the 1980s, as he hits rock bottom, spiraling into alcoholism and self-doubt.

      Fortunately, he receives support from his old friend, former wrestler Diamond Dallas Page, who he had mentored in the 1990s. DDP invites Roberts to stay in his home in Atlanta, dubbed “the Accountability Crib,” helping him navigate his way back to sobriety and fitness despite numerous challenges.

      Flight (2012)

      Paramount Pictures – Credit: C/O

      This film serves as a brilliant metaphor for high-functioning alcoholism: Denzel Washington portrays a pilot capable of miraculous feats in the air but struggling with control on the ground.

      After a bizarre accident — and a remarkable maneuver that turns his life upside-down — he faces the reality of his powerlessness over alcohol and drugs.

      The screenplay was written by John Gatins, who successfully battled his own addiction.

      Rachel Getting Married (2008)

      Sony Pictures Classics – Credit: C/O

      In this film, Anne Hathaway plays a recovering addict in a 12-step program who is allowed to leave rehab to attend her sister Rachel’s wedding. The narrative explores the challenges and discomfort of rebuilding trust after your addictions have harmed those around you and when they question your dedication to recovery.

      Under the direction of Jonathan Demme, known for his empathy, the story is portrayed with sincerity, emotional release, and even happiness.

      Mirroring life, Anne Hathaway has recently shared her journey of being sober for several years.

      Traffic (2000)

      USA Films – Credit: C/O

      This movie about the drug war ultimately concludes that addiction cannot be eradicated through force and punitive measures: It’s essential to address the demand by treating addicts with humanity and discovering ways to assist them with their addictions.

      The most intense moments involve Don Cheadle, Michael Douglas, and Benicio del Toro as they attempt to dismantle drug cartels. However, at its core, the film also focuses on Caroline Wakefield (Erika Christensen), the daughter of Douglas’ anti-drug champion, who succumbs to drug addiction. She finds her path to recovery through 12-step meetings and her parents' love.

      “If there is a war on drugs, then many of our family members are the enemy,” Wakefield expresses. “And I don't know how you wage war on your own family.”

      The screenplay was penned by Stephen Gaghan, inspired by his personal experiences with addiction and recovery. It's based on the highly regarded British television series Traffik.

      When a Man Loves a Woman (1994)

      Buena Vista Pictures Distribution – Credit: C/O

      This is the only film on this list co-written by someone who later became a United States senator. Al Franken, primarily known for his comedy, ventured into drama by co-writing with Ronald Bass the story of a man (Andy Garcia) married to a woman (Meg Ryan) who battles alcoholism.

      Franken's insights stem from his wife's own recovery journey, which she has openly discussed with his support.

      Critic Roger Ebert, who was also a recovering alcoholic, awarded When a Man Loves a Woman four stars, describing it as “a wise and ambitious film about how alcoholism impacts the fabric of marriage.”

      He noted, “Many films about the disease simplify it into a three-step process: Gradual onset, spectacular bottom, eventual recovery. It’s not that straightforward; most alcoholics don’t even allow themselves a chance to recover. Recovery is a beginning, not an end.”

      Smashed (2012)

      Sony Pictures Classics – Credit: C/O

      Smashed features Mary Elizabeth