Cast
Eben Britton
Self - Former NFL Player (as Eben)
Dr. Wendy Brown
Self - Political Theorist, UC Berkeley
Ariana
Self - College Sophomore
Delaney
Self - College Junior
Jasper Holt-Teza
Self - College Senior (as Jasper)
Leigh
Self - College Senior
Anjan Chatterjee
Self - Chair of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania
Alan Schwarz
Self - Journalist, Author - ADHD Nation
Nicholas Rasmussen
Self - Author, On Speed
Nathanael
Self - Software Engineer
Sheila Britt
Self - Eben's Wife (as Brit)
Martha Farah
Self - Cognitive Neuroscientist, University of Pennsylvania
Carl Hart
Self - Chair of Psychology, Columbia University
Lawrence Diller
Self - Pediatrician, Author - Running on Ritalin
Steve Hinshaw
Self - Psychologist, Author - The ADHD Explosion
Crew
Director
- Alison Klayman
Producer
- Christopher Clements
- Carolyn Hepburn
- Kate Osborn
- Julie Goldman
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Take Your Pills represents a fascinating example of Documentary cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Alison Klayman 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 pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2018, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Take Your Pills took approximately 5 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 87 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 119 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 310 unique costume pieces for the production.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 2018, when this film is released:
- Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
- Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Take Your Pills shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Changing the Conversation: America's Gun Violence Epidemic, which focuses more on action than character development, Take Your Pills offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Free Tibet and My Enemy, My Brother explore similar territory, Take Your Pills stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
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: March 9, 2018
- Runtime: 1h 27m
Where to Watch
