Addiction is an interesting thing. It's a terrible thing, a frightening thing. Our response to it as a society is odd and inconsistent. We treat it as a disease – rightfully so – and yet we treat it as such a great taboo, and so often instead of treating it, we punish it. People may debate the classification of “disease,” for it is certainly different than being afflicted with, say, cancer, but those who suffer from addiction – whether it be alcohol, drugs, or anything else – are often unsure where to turn. Someone with cancer can turn to those around them and expect love, condolences, and offers of assistance, but you tell someone you're an alcoholic, in many cases you will be immediately judged. Problems will never be solved by fear and judgment, but by understanding and willingness to help.
This is the idea behind the documentary The Anonymous People, playing tonight only at Village 8 Theaters. The film explores the idea of addiction and the history of society's response to the problem, including various scandalous media reactions, responses from U.S. Presidents and other political leaders, and, of course, the emergence of Alcoholics Anonymous. The film also focuses on what's going on today, featuring interviews and footage of modern leaders in the movement to end the taboo of addiction and bring it to light as the disease it is, offering solutions beyond incarceration and denial.
Village 8 is located at 4014 Dutchmans Lane. The Anonymous People will screen at 7:30. Tickets are $10. Further information and advance ticket sales can be found at the Village 8 website.
Image: Internet Movie Database
