Anna Nicole Smith's Doctor: Fame, Drugs, and Film

A new film, "Trust Me, I'm a Doctor," examines the controversial relationship between Dr. Sandeep Kapoor and Anna Nicole Smith, focusing on his legal battles after her 2007 death. Kal Penn stars as Kapoor, a physician who became excessively involved with the reality TV star, lured by her celebrity and lifestyle.

Directed by Thane Economou, the film is based on Kapoor's memoir. It depicts his descent into Smith's orbit, including attending events like a West Hollywood gay pride parade with her. The narrative unfolds through flashbacks from a discovery session with his attorney, Ellyn Garofalo, played by Linda Hamilton.

The movie's approach is often criticized for its inconsistent tone and clunky exposition, employing elements like fake TMZ segments. It attempts to balance levity with melodrama, touching on Kapoor's personal life and relationships.

Despite the bizarre nature of the story, involving figures like Larry Birkhead and Howard K. Stern, the film's focus on Kapoor leaves the more compelling figure of Anna Nicole Smith underdeveloped. The performance by Abbie Cornish as Smith is noted, but the film struggles to overcome its perceived exploitation of Smith's fame, with Penn's portrayal of Kapoor unable to elevate it beyond a sensationalized retelling.