Cast
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Michael Keaton
as Daryl Poynter
Kathy Baker
as Charlie Standers
Morgan Freeman
as Craig
Tate Donovan
as Donald Towle
Henry Judd Baker
as Xavier
Claudia Christian
as Iris
J. David Krassner
as Tiller
Dakin Matthews
as Bob
Mary Catherine Martin
as Cheryl Ann
Patricia Quinn
as June
Pamela Dunlap
as Jane
Terri Hanauer
as Admissions Counsellor
David A. Kimball
as Doctor
Veronica Redd
as Head Nurse - Detox
Sharie Doolittle
as Nurse
Crew
Director
- Glenn Gordon Caron
Producer
- Tony Ganz
- Deborah Blum
Reviews
Dave
Michael Keaton tries his hand in a dramatic portrayal of an alcoholic, drug addicted stock broker who finds refuge in a treatment program - but not for it's intended purpose. He slowly begins to realize that be may be there for a reason, but the arrogant nature of his personality is always at conflict. As someone with long term sobriety, I always tell people that this is close to the real thing that Hollywood has to offer. Nobody is a model citizen in this world, most are flawed, lonely, angry characters, however there is some redemption in the masses. Strong supporting roles including M. Emmet Walsh, Kathy Bates and a young Morgan Freeman. Worth a look if you can find it.
Feb 8, 2017
Peter McGinn
Michael Keaton puts in a great dramatic performance in this movie, at a time when his star was definitely rising. This movie was released the same year as Beetlejuice, and the year before Batman. Kathy Bates also excels as Charlie.
Keaton’s Money manager character Daryl has gamed the system to steal client funds, and even as his drug addiction careens towards bottom, he uses a private rehab center as a shield against being found by the authorities. As he becomes involved with Bates’ character Charlie, who he meets while in rehab, he begins to take his sobriety seriously, perhaps more so than his new girlfriend does herself. There are touches of humor and Daryl’s charm to break up the more serious moments. At one point Daryl encourages her to use a script to talk to her previous boyfriend on the phone. She gives it a try, she shows Daryl the sheet and repeats the ugly profane response she receives, telling him she doesn’t see that on there as a possible response.
The movie builds up to a short speech by Daryl that is heartfelt and powerful. The details are brutal at time, and probably therefore accurate, and well worth watching. It carries a message with it, but isn’t merely a message movie. Back when it came out and moved to HBO and DVD, I watched it multiple times. It might be time to watch it again.
Aug 25, 2020
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Clean and Sober examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Glenn Gordon Caron brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1988, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Clean and Sober took approximately 11 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 124 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 182 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 10 months to complete.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1988, when this film was released:
- Economic policies were shifting toward deregulation in many Western countries.
- The Cold War was entering its final phase.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Clean and Sober shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Annie Hall, which focuses more on action than character development, Clean and Sober subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like The Last Emperor and Almost Famous explore similar territory, Clean and Sober stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: August 10, 1988
- Runtime: 2h 4m
- Revenue: $8,674,093
