Acute Misfortune is a 2018 Australian biographical drama film based on the award-winning biography of Adam Cullen, written by Erik Jensen. The film tells the story of Jensen and his subject, acclaimed Australian artist Adam Cullen, as they develop a tumultuous relationship over the course of several years.
Jensen is a young journalist who becomes fascinated with Cullen's work and decides to write a biography about him. As they spend more time together, Cullen's erratic behavior and addiction to drugs and alcohol become increasingly apparent, and he begins to rely on Jensen for emotional and financial support.
The film explores the complex power dynamics and ethical dilemmas that arise when a biographer becomes too close to their subject. It also touches on themes of mental illness, creative inspiration, and the darker side of fame and artistic success.
Acute Misfortune was directed by Thomas M. Wright and stars Daniel Henshall as Adam Cullen and Toby Wallace as Erik Jensen. The film received critical acclaim and won several awards, including Best Adapted Screenplay at the AACTA Awards.
