Sundance Debut: Real Lives in Opioid Crisis Drama

Adam Meeks' debut feature, "Union County," earned a coveted spot at the Sundance Film Festival, marking a significant career milestone. The film, adapted from Meeks' own short, chronicles a young man's journey through a rural Ohio drug court program as he navigates recovery amidst the opioid epidemic.

What sets "Union County" apart is its integration of real-life participants from the drug court and its judge, who appear throughout the narrative. Actor Will Poulter stars as the protagonist, portraying a man facing the challenges of staying sober, a role that contrasts with his previous depiction of a pharmaceutical executive.

The project originated from Meeks' personal connection to his Central Ohio hometown and his observations of a community grappling with addiction. He was profoundly impacted by witnessing the holistic support system within the drug court, which countered prevalent negative statistics.

Poulter, who also produced, was drawn to the project's respectful and dignified representation of the community and the recovery process. The filmmaking approach emphasized collaboration and trust, with the cast and crew embedding themselves within the community rather than imposing on it.

Meeks and Poulter both acknowledge a shared struggle with receiving compliments, yet express immense pride in their work. Poulter highlighted the film's potential to reframe societal understanding of addiction and recovery, emphasizing the importance of alternative programs like drug courts. Meeks hopes the film will foster empathy and challenge assumptions, demonstrating paths forward for those affected by addiction.