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“Dopesick” is a poignant TV series that unveils the harrowing reality of the opioid crisis in the United States, exploring the intertwining lives of individuals, medical professionals, and the pharmaceutical industry in a devastating tale of addiction and its far-reaching impact.
Read on to find out where to watch “Dopesick” in Canada and brace yourself for a gripping narrative that uncovers the shocking truths behind the epidemic that shook a nation to its core.
Table of Contents
What Is Dopesick About?
“Dopesick” is a compelling TV series that sheds light on the devastating opioid crisis that swept across the United States. Based on true events and inspired by the non-fiction book of the same name, the series offers a sobering look at the pharmaceutical industry’s role in fueling the epidemic. It delves deep into the lives of individuals and families affected by addiction, exposing the ripple effects of a crisis that spans communities and generations. The narrative follows a group of characters, including doctors, law enforcement officials, and families, as they navigate the complexities of a healthcare system entangled with the profit-driven practices of powerful pharmaceutical corporations. Through their intertwined stories, the series lays bare the challenges of addressing addiction, the ethical dilemmas faced by medical professionals, and the grim reality of a nation grappling with a crisis that involves both personal struggles and systemic failures.
As the series unfolds, “Dopesick” unflinchingly examines the origins of the opioid epidemic, tracing its roots from the marketing strategies that promoted painkillers as safe and non-addictive to the grim realities of opioid dependency and overdose deaths. The show takes viewers behind the scenes of corporate boardrooms and medical practices, exposing the ways in which profit-driven decisions contributed to widespread suffering. By weaving together the experiences of various characters, “Dopesick” provides a comprehensive portrayal of the human toll of addiction, the lengths people go to seek justice, and the resilience of communities in the face of a crisis that touches every facet of society.
“Dopesick” premiered in October 2021.
Who Are in the Cast and Production of Dopesick?
“Dopesick” was created and directed by Danny Strong, known for his work as a screenwriter and producer on projects such as “Empire” and “Recount,” which delves into political and societal themes with compelling narratives. The series also features direction by Barry Levinson, recognized for his work on acclaimed films like “Rain Man” and “Good Morning, Vietnam,” known for his ability to bring depth and resonance to character-driven stories. Here’s the cast of “Dopesick”:
- Michael Keaton as Dr. Samuel Finnix
- Peter Sarsgaard as Rick Mountcastle
- Rosario Dawson as Bridget Meyer
- Kaitlyn Dever as Betsy Mallum
- Will Poulter as Billy Mallum
- John Hoogenakker as Dr. Kipper
- Michael Stuhlbarg as Richard Sackler
What is the Rating for Dopesick?
“Dopesick” is rated 14+ in Canada. This means that the material may contain more mature themes, intense scenes, or elements that could be unsuitable for younger viewers under the age of 14. It’s a way to guide parents and viewers in making informed decisions about what content is appropriate for different age groups.
How Many People Watch Dopesick?
Exact viewership numbers for “Dopesick” are not readily available, but the show enjoyed a decent level of popularity during its run.
How Are the Reviews for Dopesick?
Critics praised “Dopesick” for its unflinching portrayal of the opioid crisis, commending its powerful performances, nuanced storytelling, and examination of the devastating impact on individuals and communities; the series was lauded for shedding light on the corporate and medical aspects of the crisis, sparking important conversations about accountability and public health. The show received an approval rating of 89% on RottenTomatoes, 68/100 in Metacritic and 8.6/10 on IMDb. See what critics are saying about “Dopesick”:
- “With its powerful storytelling and exceptional performances, ‘Dopesick’ shines a stark light on the opioid epidemic, capturing the human stories behind the statistics and offering a poignant commentary on the forces that contributed to this devastating crisis.” – The Hollywood Reporter
- “Skillfully blending social commentary with riveting drama, ‘Dopesick’ delivers an unflinching portrayal of a heartbreaking epidemic, shedding light on the complicity of institutions and individuals while keeping viewers engaged through its compelling characters and intricate narrative.” – IndieWire
Where to Watch Dopesick in Canada
“Dopesick” is available on streaming services in Canada.
Is Dopesick Available on Streaming?
Disney Plus
“Dopesick” is streaming on Disney Plus. To watch the series on the platform, sign up for an account and avail of the following subscription plans:
| Plan | Price |
| Monthly | CAD$11.99 |
| Annual | CAD$119.99 |
Disney Plus is also compatible with devices like smartphones, smart TVs, PCs, laptops, and tablets. Unfortunately, the platform does not support media players, TV web browsers, or game consoles.
You can enjoy a number of films on Disney Plus, including “Avengers: Endgame,” “Black Panther,” and “Iron Man.”
Is Dopesick Available for Rent (VOD)?
“Dopesick” is not available for video-on-demand in Canada.
Is Dopesick Available on Cable or Free TV?
“Dopesick” is not airing on any cable channels or free-to-air televisions in Canada.
Should I Use a VPN to Watch Dopesick?
There is no need to use a VPN since “Dopesick” is readily available to stream on Disney Plus in Canada.
Accountability and Justice
Viewers can learn about accountability and justice from “Dopesick” as they witness the relentless pursuit of those responsible for the opioid crisis, demonstrating the importance of holding individuals and corporations accountable for their actions. The series showcases legal and moral efforts to seek justice, highlighting the complexities of navigating a system that balances personal responsibility with systemic failures. Through the characters’ journeys, viewers gain insight into the impact of accountability and the role it plays in addressing large-scale public health crises.
You can watch “Dopesick” on Disney Plus in Canada.
