Arthur Redux Makes Alcoholism Funny?

For years now, TV, music and movies have made light about addiction. Now, the 1980s hit comedy Arthur is being remade with Russell Brand in the starring role as a lovable, eccentric billionaire who happens to have a problem with alcohol. The role was originated by Dudley Moore, but hits close to home for Brand, who has a history of alcohol and drug abuse. The British comic has been clean and sober for eight years and says he still attends AA meetings three times a week.

“The only way to cope is with a program,” Brand recently told Details of handling addiction. “If you stop doing the recovery, even eating too much chocolate, something will flare up, and I know where that leads, because I've been there before. To me, the gravity is heroin, and then death. You know, to sleep.”

Addiction in the Movies

To be fair, the entertainment industry also shows the darker side of addiction and substance abuse. Films like Leaving Las Vegas and Bright Lights, Big City have sparked discussion about the bigger issues of addiction and shown the gritty reality.

Arthur premieres nationwide April 8 and also stars Helen Mirren and Jennifer Garner.

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If you or someone you love is battling an addiction or co-occurring disorder and need drug treatment, call The Canyon at our toll-free. Someone is there to take your call 24 hours a day and answer any questions you have about treatment, financing or insurance.