Living on Methadone

Runtime: Feature
Stage: production
Location: Buffalo, NY, Washington D.C.
Producers:
CAO of WNY, Inc
Buffalo Documentary Project

Logline:

“Living on Methadone” follows the journeys of patients at a methadone clinic, exploring their struggle to overcome opioid addiction through personal stories of pain and relief. The film delves into the cultural, historical, and societal contexts of methadone treatment, highlighting the associated challenges and stigmas.

Plot Summary:

“Living on Methadone” delves into the complexities of opioid addiction, contrasting the experiences of patients at the DART methadone clinic in Buffalo, NY. At its core, the story focuses on the lives of three patients: their addiction, decision to get sober, and the emotional and mental difficulties they face on this journey. Interwoven with personal stories, the documentary also explains what opioid addiction is while primarily focusing on methadone treatment. It features insights from leading figures, clinicians, and policymakers. Discussions include the historical evolution of methadone treatment, critical issues around prescription access and regulatory barriers, transportation challenges that exacerbate the opioid crisis, and the side effects and impacts of methadone.

  • Methadone treatment plays a critical role in the lives of individuals battling opioid addiction, offering a bridge to stability and recovery. Understanding methadone treatment is vital for several reasons. Firstly, it dispels myths and reduces the stigma associated with addiction treatment, fostering a more supportive and empathetic community. By educating the public on how methadone works as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, including counseling and support services, we can highlight its effectiveness in reducing the harm of opioid addiction, preventing overdose deaths, and enabling individuals to regain control over their lives. Knowledge about methadone treatment encourages informed discussions, supports evidence-based policies, and helps those affected by opioid addiction to seek help. Ultimately, raising awareness about methadone treatment can save lives, reunite families, and contribute to the healing of communities impacted by the opioid crisis.

  • The documentary weaves together the narratives of three individuals against a backdrop of expert insights on methadone treatment. Jane's story of resilience reflects her long-term recovery journey, personal relationships, and societal challenges. Alex's experience highlights the psychological toll of addiction and systemic barriers within the healthcare system, exacerbated by personal tragedies. Emma's narrative focuses on the frustrating delays and policy complications in accessing treatment. Together, these stories, enriched with perspectives from scientists, clinicians, and policy experts, offer a nuanced view of the complexities and human aspects of methadone treatment and its evolution.

  • In what ways does methadone treatment reshape the existence of individuals grappling with opioid dependence?

    What are the systemic obstacles that hinder prompt access to methadone treatment?

    How do societal views on methadone treatment reflect on those in the recovery phase?

    Unknown Elements and Guiding Questions

    With the narrative ebbing and flowing with the clinic’s pulse and the broader socio-political shifts in drug policy, our documentary's trajectory remains inherently dynamic. Amma and Alex and Jane’s personal journeys may evolve, dictating the film's depth and direction. Equally, the shifting sands of public sentiment and policy can transform the clinic’s operations and our storytelling arc.

  • "Living on Methadone" merges documentary realism with avant-garde techniques to build compassion for those affected by opioid addiction and recovery. The film balances raw, unfiltered documentary footage with carefully staged sequences to frame the psychological landscapes of the subjects, engaging audiences on both intellectual and visceral levels.

  • The Drug Abuse Research and Treatment Program (DART) helps individuals suffering with opioid use disorder achieve and maintain long-term sobriety. Grounded in more than 50 years of treatment experience, we build individual patient-centered plans that maximize the opportunity for recovery and equip patients with the tools to become responsible, self-reliant members of society again.

    DART maintains both federal and state licensing while upholding rigorous record-keeping standards. Our approach utilizes the best of in-house and referral-based services and a proven mix of medical and behavioral therapies. The treatment team includes highly trained medical, clinical and administrative staff who specialize in opiate addiction and pride themselves in delivering secure, confidential treatment in a dignified and respectful atmosphere.

    Since 1971 DART has been a leader in providing holistic, integrated services to patients throughout Western New York. As our community suffers under the addiction epidemic sweeping the nation, we offer hope and a proven path to recovery.

Experts & Characters

  • Philip Brunner

    Substance Abuse Counselor

  • Will

    Former Opioid User

  • Aaron

    Former Methadone Patient

  • Dr. Robert L. DuPont

    Leader in Drug Abuse Prevention and Treatment / Former Drug Czar

  • Frances McGaffery

    Addiction Researcher / Pew Research Center

  • Steve Nichols

    Retired Buffalo Police Captain

  • Pamela

    Methadone Patient

Crew

  • Mani Mehrvarz

    Director/Producer

  • Matthew A. Nardone

    Cinematographer

  • Justin Sanchez

    Associate Producer

  • Maryam Muliaee

    Art Direction/Researcher

  • Micheal Bouquard

    Sound Mixer

  • Cynthia Smith

    Consultant (SME)

  • Jordan Geiger

    Art Direction

  • Mark Pasqualotto

    Gaffer

  • Vicente Rondón

    Photographer/Location Scout

  • Michael Marrone

    Story Producer

  • Christopher D’Addario

    Production Assistant

The film has entered the production phase. If you are interested in being listed as one of our producers or sponsors, please reach out through the form below.