Four Good Days

Movie Trailer

Release Date
April 30, 2021

Genre
Drama

Cast & Crew

• Glenn Close as Deb
• Mila Kunis as Molly
• Stephen Root as Chris
• Joshua Leonard as Sean
• Rebecca Field as Coach Miller

Director
Rodrigo García

Other Movies Director is Known For

• Albert Nobbs (2011)
• Mother and Child (2009)
• Nine Lives (2005)

Producer
Jon Avnet, Marina Grasic, Jake Avnet

Writer
Rodrigo García, Eli Saslow

Budget
$5 million (estimated)

Production Company
Vertical Entertainment, Indigenous Media, Oakhurst Entertainment

Running Time
100 minutes

Languages
English

Maturity Rating
R

Content Advisory

• Drug addiction
• Strong language
• Mature themes

Movie Story
Four Good Days is an emotionally intense drama that delves into the harrowing reality of addiction and the impact it has on relationships, particularly between a mother and her daughter. The film follows Molly, a 31-year-old woman struggling with heroin addiction, as she reaches out to her estranged mother, Deb, in a desperate plea for help. Molly is determined to get clean, but after multiple failed attempts at sobriety, Deb is hesitant to believe her daughter can truly change.

The story is set in motion when Molly learns that she can receive an injection that will help her stay off drugs, but she must remain clean for four days before the treatment can be administered. These four days become a grueling test of willpower, trust, and love as Deb agrees to take Molly in, despite her deep reservations.

As the days progress, Four Good Days paints a raw and honest picture of the battle against addiction. The film highlights the physical and emotional toll it takes not only on the addict but also on those who care for them. The strained relationship between Molly and Deb is at the heart of the narrative, with Glenn Close and Mila Kunis delivering powerful performances that bring depth and authenticity to their roles.

Deb’s struggle to maintain boundaries while offering support is palpable, as is Molly’s internal conflict between her desire to stay clean and the overpowering urge to relapse. The film doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of addiction, making it a compelling and sometimes uncomfortable watch.

Four Good Days also touches on the broader issues surrounding addiction, such as the stigma attached to it, the lack of support systems, and the cycle of shame and relapse. Through its intimate storytelling, the film emphasizes that the road to recovery is not just about detoxing from substances but also about healing broken relationships and rebuilding trust.

Special Effects
The film’s special effects are minimal, as the focus is on the realistic portrayal of addiction and the emotional dynamics between the characters. Makeup and practical effects are used effectively to depict the physical toll of drug abuse on Molly, adding to the film’s authenticity.

Box Office Performance
Four Good Days had a limited theatrical release and was also available on streaming platforms. Given its modest budget, the film performed reasonably well, drawing attention for its strong performances and sensitive handling of a difficult subject matter.

Filming Locations

• Los Angeles, California, USA

Notable Quotes

• “It’s never just four days, Molly. It’s always going to be just one more.” – Deb
• “I’ll fight for you, but I can’t do it for you.” – Deb

Behind-the-Scenes
Four Good Days is based on a true story, adapted from Eli Saslow’s Washington Post article “How’s Amanda? A Story of Truth, Lies and an American Addiction.” The film’s realistic portrayal of addiction was informed by thorough research, and the filmmakers worked closely with people who have lived through similar experiences to ensure authenticity.

Awards

• Nominated for Best Supporting Actress (Glenn Close) at the 2022 Screen Actors Guild Awards

Final Verdict
Four Good Days is a powerful and heartbreaking film that offers an unflinching look at the challenges of addiction and the complex dynamics of family relationships. Anchored by standout performances from Glenn Close and Mila Kunis, the film is a must-watch for those interested in character-driven dramas that tackle real-life issues with honesty and empathy.

IMDb Rating
6.6/10