Film Review – Beautiful Boy

There’s temptation with movies about addiction, with most filmmakers hoping to ease the frustration of such a lifestyle by going sentimental, trying to adjust the focus to tears instead of true behavioral comprehension. It’s a logical dodge, but “Beautiful Boy” isn’t compelled to take things lightly just to secure audience interest. It’s an adaptation of David Sheff’s book, “Beautiful Boy: A Father’s Journey Through His Son’s Addiction,” and Nic Sheff’s book, “Tweak: Growing Up on Methamphetamines,” with screenwriters Luke Davies and Felix Van Groeningen (who also directs) combining two experiences with drug abuse into one tough but understanding picture. “Beautiful Boy” is hobbled somewhat by confusing editing, but the core message of powerlessness remains in full effect, treating addiction and recovery with the clear-eyed sense of confusion it deserves.  Read the rest at Blu-ray.com