Addiction is not an easy conversation to have- with your children, with your family, with somebody already drowning in it. For David Sheff, it was not an easy conversation to have with his eldest son, Nic, who began methamphetamine at the age of 18 as an exemplary student and star athlete. The five year battle against the highly addictive drug was stressful for both Sheff and his son, but today, as the movie releases, Nic Sheff celebrates ten years of sobriety.

The harrowing tale of Nic and his father is beautifully portrayed in the book “Beautiful Boy: A Father’s Journey Through His Son’s Addiction”, which details the five year period during which David discovered his son’s use of the drug. The film adaptation is no disappointment. Directed beautifully by Felix Van Groeningen, the movie combines the use of a stunning soundtrack that builds tension but also allows for a subtle calmness with soothing colors. The colors, which use toned-down versions of otherwise vibrant colors, such as soft blues and greens, create an atmosphere that almost perfectly replicates the momentary ‘highs’ Nic experiences throughout the film. They also take the movie in an unforeseen direction, instead of a more intense, high-energy packed route that other movies concerning drug-use have conventionally taken. The more muted hues help in taking the movie along a different path. Under the brilliant direction of Van Groeningen, the camera movements accent the story rather than just telling it; smoother movements show the passage of time and Nic’s ‘highs’ while still low-light shots help portray the more intense or emotional scenes.

Complemented by great direction is the superb acting. Steve Carell, as always, manages to captivate audiences with his brilliant portrayal of David Sheff. While this role was challenging and intense for Carell, as he admitted during an interview with USAToday, I nevertheless love him in the role and couldn’t imagine another actor daring to take his spot. Despite it being a more serious part than what he has done in the past, I would not be surprised if this movie wins him an Oscar nomination, or even the trophy itself. Along with Carell is co-star Timothee Chalamet, who plays Nic Sheff. Timothee Chalamet, who was nominated for an Oscar for his first film ever, is a brilliant star on the rise. His acting is ardent and emotional, touching the very core of Nic’s character and perfectly replicating the struggle and battle Nic faced.

Perhaps one of the greatest aspects of the movie is it’s call to attention- forcing viewers to realize the gruesome horrors of addiction which echo even further to high school audiences. Because of Nic’s discovery of drugs in highschool and college years, the effects of drugs on your studies, career, and personal life is shown.

The movie as a whole, of course, comes out to be an impressive piece. In no way does it lose the audience’s attention, but rather remains captivating the entire time. The message is beautifully spread- warning young viewers to steer clear of drugs that shaved five years off of Nic’s and his loved ones’ lives in a way that resonates with the audience. I will not be surprised when this movie is the face of the Oscars next year, and I award it a 10/10. This is a not a movie to miss or to watch several weeks after the release but instead, it is an important film with an important message that should be caught in the theater when possible.