Released: 2011-03-17
The life of an unsuccessful writer is transformed by a top-secret 'smart drug' that allows him to use 100% of his brain and become a perfect version of himself. His enhanced abilities soon attract shadowy forces that threaten his new life.
Thriller
Mystery
Science Fiction
7.2 / 11882
Duration: 106 min.
Budget: $27.0M
Revenue: $161.9M
Sampson
Rating:8/10
A reframing of what life has to offer. While the premise of a drug induced hyper competency seems like it should be the wrong type of inspiration, I couldn't help but feel inspired as I watched Eddie Moira (Bradley Cooper) transform his life. The funny thing about the movie is that a lot of what Eddie did to improve his life could have been done without NZT which hyper stimulated his brain to accomplish the impossible. Many of the things he did to improve his life such as cleaning his apartment, dressing better, or finishing his script probably could've done with some self discipline and inspiration. While I found the concept of NZT interesting and I often wondered how I would handle the the responsibilities and challenges that come with its consumption, I ultimately found the more gnawing question to be about how much more I could be doing with my days and my time. Exploring the possibility of what he could accomplish with focus, drive, and ability makes you reframe what is possible in your own life. It allows you to imagine a higher ceiling to what life has to offer. Overall, an enjoyable movie that gives you a kick in the pants when you're feeling shackled by the drudges of self apathy.
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