Drama
United States of America
The Lost Weekend is a 1945 film directed by Billy Wilder and based on a novel by Charles R. Jackson. It follows the story of Don Birnam (played by Ray Milland), an alcoholic writer in New York City.
As the film begins, Don is preparing to go on a weekend trip with his brother Wick (played by Phillip Terry) and girlfriend Helen (played by Jane Wyman). However, Don's addiction to alcohol is still very much present, and he begins to make excuses to avoid the trip.
Over the next four days, Don descends deeper into his addiction, becoming increasingly desperate for a drink. He spends his time searching for money to buy alcohol, stealing from friends and family and even attempting to pawn his typewriter.
As Don's condition worsens, he begins to experience terrifying hallucinations and delirium tremens. He is hospitalized and undergoes a painful detoxification process, all while reflecting on the traumatic events that led him to alcoholism.
In the end, Don is released from the hospital and reunites with Helen, who promises to help him overcome his addiction. The film ends on a hopeful note, suggesting that recovery is possible for those struggling with alcoholism.
The Lost Weekend was critically acclaimed upon its release, with many praising its raw portrayal of addiction and mental illness. It won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, and Best Adapted Screenplay. To this day, it is considered a landmark film in the portrayal of addiction and recovery.
