How did the Opioid Crisis begin? Netflix’s upcoming series “Painkiller” looks at the origin of OxyContin and its resulting impact. A Purdue Pharma creation, the drug would be championed by the company’s owners — namely Richard Sackler. Peter Berg directs this adaptation of a New Yorker article from Patrick Radden Keef and the Barry Meier book “Pain Killer: An Empire of Deceit and the Origin of America’s Opioid Epidemic.” It also represents a major step in Berg’s deal with Netflix.
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The series stars Matthew Broderick as Rich Sackler — a powerful figure in the pharmaceutical industry, his quest to make OxyContin a bestseller came at the expense of patients everywhere. It marks a return to drama for the actor, who is currently starring in the comedy “No Hard Feelings.” “Painkiller” also shows the pursuit of justice through acclaimed actress Uzo Aduba’s character Edie.
Another notable name among the cast is Taylor Kitsch. The actor portrays Glen Kryger, a man whose life changes after becoming hooked on OxyContin. It’s more than a role for Kitsch, seeing firsthand how addiction destroys entire families; His own sister struggled with years of substance abuse issues, and the actor saw her through rehab.
The series’ official synopsis:
“The causes and consequences of America’s opioid epidemic unfold in this drama following its perpetrators, victims and an investigator seeking the truth.”
Every story has a beginning, even the devastating Opioid Crisis. Netflix’s new series “Painkiller” premieres on August 10. Get your first look at the trailer below:
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