Drama,Comedy
United States of America
Why Stop Now? is a dark comedy film released in 2012, directed by Phil Dorling and Ron Nyswaner. The movie stars Jesse Eisenberg as Eli Smith, a 21-year-old piano prodigy who struggles to balance his dreams of attending a prestigious music school with his responsibilities towards his drug-addicted mother, Penny (played by Melissa Leo).
Eli has arranged for Penny to enter rehab on the morning of his audition at the music school, but when he arrives at her house to take her to the facility, he finds her deeply intoxicated and unable to go anywhere. Meanwhile, her drug dealer Sprinkles (played by Tracy Morgan) also shows up at the house, demanding payment for Penny's outstanding debt.
As Eli tries to reason with Sprinkles to extend the payment deadline, the situation quickly spirals out of control and a series of unexpected events unfolds. Eli finds himself caught up in a wild adventure of drug deals, car chases, and dangerous encounters with Sprinkles and his associates, all while trying to keep his mother safe and make it to his audition on time.
The film showcases the complex, dysfunctional relationship between Eli and Penny, as well as their respective struggles with addiction and ambition. It also explores themes of family, loyalty, and the lengths one will go to protect their loved ones. Alongside Eisenberg, Leo, and Morgan, the movie features supporting roles by Isiah Whitlock Jr., Sarah Ramos, and Paul Calderón.
