Director's Unflinching Look at Addiction
MOVIE REVIEW
Hazard
- 
Genre: Drama
Year Released: 2024, 2025
Runtime: 1h 29m
Director(s): Eddie Mensore
Writer(s): Eddie Mensore
Cast: Sosie Bacon, Steven Ogg, Alex Roe, Dave Davis, Kevin Sizemore, Mellanie Hubert, Abigail Esmena, Mark Helms, Austin J. Rutherford, Emmett Moss, Barbara Eaker, Mikayla C Roberts
Where To Watch: opens February 7, 2025, at Laemmle Glendale in Los Angeles
RAVING REVIEW: Eddie Mensore's HAZARD pushes viewers into the gritty reality of the opioid crisis, offering a raw portrayal of its impact on rural Appalachian communities. The film centers on Will, played by Alex Roe, a man deeply ensnared in addiction and the local drug trade. His estranged wife, Sara, portrayed by Sosie Bacon, has fought her way to sobriety and is determined to provide a stable environment for their child. This setup creates a compelling tension between Will's struggles and Sara's resolve, driving the narrative forward.
Roe delivers a nuanced performance, capturing Will's inner conflict as he grapples with his demons while yearning for family connection. Bacon's Sara is a beacon of strength and hope, embodying the challenges of maintaining sobriety amidst chaos. Their on-screen chemistry brings depth to the complexities of relationships strained by substance abuse.
The film doesn't stop at individual stories; it paints a broader picture of a community in turmoil. Steven Ogg portrays Will's father, a former miner whose life has been ravaged by chronic pain and addiction, highlighting the generational cycle of substance dependence. Dave Davis takes on the role of John Lang, Sara's brother and a local police officer, embodying the frustration of those attempting to combat the pervasive drug problem with limited resources.
HAZARD is striking. Cinematographer Matthew Boyd captures the stark beauty of the Appalachian landscape, juxtaposing its natural splendor with the bleak realities of its inhabitants. This contrast powerfully symbolizes the community's external allure and internal struggles.
Mauricio Yazigi's score complements the narrative, enhancing the weight of key scenes without overshadowing the storytelling. The music integrates seamlessly into the film's structure, amplifying its impact.
While the storyline treads familiar ground, exploring themes of addiction, family conflict, and the quest for redemption, Mensore's approach brings a fresh perspective. He avoids sensationalism, opting for a respectful and unflinchingly honest portrayal. The characters are fully realized individuals, each grappling with their demons, making their journeys resonate with the audience.
One of the film's strengths is its refusal to offer easy answers. It acknowledges the multifaceted nature of addiction, recognizing it as a disease that affects not only the user but also their loved ones and the community at large. This holistic portrayal fosters empathy, encouraging viewers to consider the broader factors contributing to the epidemic.
However, the film is not without its shortcomings. At times, it leans into familiar tropes associated with addiction narratives, which may feel predictable to some viewers. Additionally, certain plot developments, particularly involving secondary characters, could have been explored more in-depth to add depth to the story. HAZARD reminds us of the human experiences behind the statistics, urging a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by those affected.
HAZARD is a thought-provoking film that highlights a critical issue. Through authentic performances and sensitive direction, it offers insight into the lives of individuals battling addiction. The film challenges viewers to confront the complexities of this crisis and leaves a lasting impression, prompting reflection long after viewing.
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[photo courtesy of EMPHATIC FILMS, BESIDE PRODUCTIONS, SLATED]
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